6 Reasons Why You Dentist Refers You to a Periodontist

In most cases, dentists are your first contact when it comes to gum and oral health. On a semi-annual basis, it’s recommended that you check in with your dentist for an overall exam, x-rays, and cleanings. During these exams and visits, your dentist will identify signs of gum issues and other potential problems with important oral structures. If required, your dental team may recommend you visit a periodontist near you to address more advanced gum problems. Periodontists are specialists who treat oral issues that affect the tissue around your teeth, including periodontal ligaments, the jaw bone itself, and your gums. 

If your dentist recommends you visit a periodontist in Whitby, Oshawa, or the surrounding areas, book a consultation with Dr. Adam Ohayon at The Perio Centre. From gum grafting and periodontal hygiene to dental implants and more, our team of experts can help you protect your smile. 

Here are some of the top reasons your dentist may recommend you visit a periodontist and why you should follow through by booking a visit at The Perio Centre.

Treat Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can range from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontitis. If your dentist identifies signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, they will often recommend seeing a periodontist in Whitby or near you for more specialized care. An experienced periodontist like Dr. Adam Ohayon can provide deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing, which go beyond regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline. In more severe cases, procedures like gum grafting may be necessary to restore gum tissue that has been lost due to periodontal disease.

Receding Gumline

One of the common concerns that periodontists address is receding gums, which can typically be the result of advancing gum disease, as well as other factors such as genetics or aggressive brushing. Over time, gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay, infection and sensitivity. If you have been diagnosed with gum recession, a periodontist can assess the extent of the damage and may recommend gum grafting or periodontal flap surgery. This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue to cover the exposed roots, restoring the gumline and preventing further damage.

Tooth Loss and Dental Implants

If you’ve lost a tooth or several teeth due to periodontal disease, injury, or decay, your dentist may recommend a dental implant. Periodontists are experts in placing dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent solution to tooth loss. The implant integrates with the jaw bone, and once it heals, it can support a crown, bridge, or denture. If you are a candidate for dental implants, a periodontist can ensure you have the right bone structure and offer bone grafting if necessary to ensure proper implant placement. At The Perio Centre, our team is experienced with dental implants. It can provide tailored solutions to help you restore missing teeth and enhance your quality of life with high-quality treatment options.

Bone Loss Around Teeth

In cases where gum disease has caused significant damage to the bone supporting your teeth, a periodontist may perform advanced procedures such as bone grafting to regenerate lost bone. Dental implants often require a stable bone foundation for proper placement, and if bone loss is present, a periodontist can restore the bone structure to ensure a successful implant procedure.

Cosmetic Gum Procedures

Periodontists also specialize in cosmetic gum procedures to improve the appearance of your smile. If your gums are uneven, too high, or too low, your periodontist can perform gum contouring to create a more balanced and aesthetic gumline. This can be especially helpful if you’re considering cosmetic dental work such as veneers or crowns. 

Ongoing Maintenance of Periodontal Health

For patients who have already received gum grafting or dental implants, maintaining optimal gum health is critical to the longevity of the results. Periodontists offer specialized follow-up care and maintenance treatments to ensure that your gums and implants stay healthy. Regular visits to a periodontist can prevent complications such as gum infections or implant failure, giving you peace of mind knowing your oral health is in expert hands. 

Trust The Perio Centre When You Need a Periodontist

At The Perio Centre, our entire team is dedicated to the patient experience. We leverage high-quality materials, offer tailored treatment plans, and use leading dental technology to support healthy gums. To learn more about how Dr. Adam Ohayon and The Perio Centre can support your smile, or if you’ve been directed to a periodontist by your dentist, book a consultation today.