Periodontal means “around the tooth” and refers to gums, bones, and ligaments supporting teeth. A periodontist is a specialist in detecting, treating, and preventing periodontal disease and dental implant placement. Periodontists complete at least three years of periodontal dentistry and dental implant training after dental school. Dr. Elizabeth Felts Randall are periodontists at Chattanooga Periodontics & Dental Implants. They will work closely with your dentist to evaluate your oral health and recommend treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Seeing a Periodontist?
You can benefit from seeing a periodontist for the same reasons you may seek a medical specialist. Periodontists specialize in oral soft-tissue and dental implant treatment. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research confirms that gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss among adults. More than half of American adults over age 29 have gum disease, whether mild, moderate, or severe.
Comprehensive Treatment of Gum Disease at Every Stage
Although a general dentist may detect early-stage gum disease, only a periodontist can treat the disease at every stage. Dentists often refer their patients to a specialist for gum disease treatment. Symptoms of moderate or severe gum disease include swollen or bleeding gums, gum pain or discomfort, or a change in your bite. A periodontist has a thorough understanding of which treatment options will achieve optimal results for each patient’s case, regardless of the stage of gum disease.
Broader Scope of Treatment
A periodontist’s experience and training encompass diagnosis and treatment of all oral soft-tissue concerns, including gum grafting, oral cancer screening, dental implant surgery, and related procedures.
Examples of treatment options:
- Gum grafting – Correct receding gums that expose tooth roots and cause sensitivity, inflammation, loose teeth, and detract from your smile.
- Oral cancer screening – Examine your oral soft tissue for abnormal patches, discoloration, sores, or lumps. A tissue biopsy may follow.
- Dental implants – Evaluate your gum and bone health in preparation for replacing missing teeth with implants. Assesses whether bone grafting must be a part of your treatment plan.
Preventive Periodontal Care
Periodontists offer annual comprehensive evaluations. The specialist will examine your teeth, gums, plaque level, bone structure, and bite to detect gum disease risk factors. Your dentist or hygienist may see calculus on your teeth above the gum line (supragingival). But calculus under the gum (subgingival) is more challenging to detect and often requires a specialist’s evaluation.
Depending on the results of your annual exam, your treatment plan may include:
- Controlling the risk factors
- Correcting any damage from gum disease
- Preventive care
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you are interested in preventive care, gum disease treatment, or replacing missing teeth with dental implants, Dr. Felts and Dr. Randall at Chattanooga Periodontics & Dental Implants will accurately evaluate your oral health. Our periodontist is sensitive to your concerns and use innovative technology for precise diagnosis and treatment. We welcome you to call us or complete our appointment request form.
