A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in gum problems. Gum disease is one of the most serious conditions they face. This dental problem can be treated early, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues including missing teeth. According to recent statistics, approximately half of all Americans over the age of 30 have a mild to moderate form of gum disease.
These patients do not all require the services of a periodontist. General dentists can treat gum disease in its early stages, but periodontists are frequently called in for more problematic cases.
Read on to learn if it's time for you to schedule an appointment with a periodontist:
1. Changes in your bite
A periodontist is frequently needed for treatment when a person's teeth start to feel differently when they brush, speak, or chew. A person's bite patterns may change with time, which could result in some very serious problems. A periodontist can identify the underlying cause of these changes and develop a treatment regimen.
2. Red, swollen and bleeding gums
This is a surefire indication that you need to see the dentist. Gums shouldn't bleed while being brushed unless the individual is using the brush too aggressively. There is a very significant possibility that you already have gum disease if your gums bleed frequently when you brush.
3. Loose teeth
If some of your teeth are slowly growing looser, you may have gum disease. An untreated infection will eventually cause the tooth to entirely fall out. A periodontist should be consulted as soon as possible if you have any loose teeth.
4. Gum recession
As you get older, it is normal for your gums to start receding. However, this recession shouldn't be obvious. Gum disease may be present if your gums have receded severely enough that your teeth now appear longer than they actually are. Visiting a dental office for a checkup is the only surefire method to find out.
5. Pain and discomfort in your gums
The most common source of dental pain is a tooth, although gum disease can also produce pain in the gums and around the teeth. There is a very significant chance that your gum disease has already progressed to the advanced stages if the pain is intense. To avoid long-term damage to the supporting structures that maintain teeth in place, you should seek emergency dental care.
6. Bad breath
Periodontal disease can be identified by chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. The accumulation of plaque on teeth is the root cause of this problem. Bacterial toxins cause gum irritation. Untreated periodontitis can cause gum and jawbone degeneration.
7. Dry mouth
A dry mouth can develop for a variety of reasons but it commonly occurs when your salivary flow is compromised and your mouth is not being kept properly lubricated. A dry mouth is often the first sign of dehydration, although other illnesses and medications can also contribute to it. Unfortunately, when the mouth does not create enough saliva, food debris caught between your teeth and in hard-to-reach parts of your mouth will start to rot. When this happens, your chances of developing gum disease increase significantly.
The bottom line
If you feel a change in your bite as when you feel different when you brush, talk, or chew, you may be suffering from periodontal disease. If your gums constantly bleed and are swollen, painful, or receding, gum disease may be to blame. A periodontist has the skill, knowledge, and experience to correctly assess and determine the causes and appropriate treatment for your dental concern.