Taking care of your oral health is essential for maintaining a healthy, confident smile. Understanding the roles of a general dentist and a periodontist can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. Both professionals play important roles, and knowing when to visit each helps you get the right care for your needs.
The Role of a General Dentist in Your Oral Health
Your general dentist is your primary resource for routine dental care. They perform regular checkups, cleanings, fillings, and other standard treatments that keep your teeth and gums healthy. General dentists monitor your oral health and address common concerns such as cavities or tooth sensitivity.
Think of your general dentist as the foundation of your oral health care. They provide preventive treatments, catch early signs of dental issues, and offer treatments for common concerns. The general dentist is the first step in maintaining a healthy smile for most patients.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a gum and bone health specialist focusing on advanced treatments beyond routine care. They have additional training in diagnosing and treating complex oral health conditions, such as gum disease, receding gums, missing teeth, and dental implant placement.
Here are situations where visiting a periodontist may be necessary:
- Gum Disease: Persistent swelling, bleeding, or tenderness in your gums could indicate advanced gum disease. Periodontists manage gum disease at all stages, especially when initial treatments haven’t been successful.
- Receding Gums: If your gums have pulled back, exposing the roots, a periodontist can offer treatments to restore your gum health and prevent further damage.
- Missing Teeth: Periodontists specialize in placing dental implants and evaluating whether your gums and bone can support them.
- Bone Loss: Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss, weakening the foundation of your teeth. A periodontist provides treatments to address this issue.
- Cosmetic Gum Concerns: They provide plastic surgeries to improve the appearance of your smile and address health issues.
If unsure, your general dentist can assess your condition and recommend a periodontist.
How General Dentists and Periodontists Work Together
Your dental care often involves teamwork between your general dentist and a periodontist. General dentists handle preventive care and maintenance, while periodontists focus on advanced treatments.
For example, during a routine visit, your dentist may notice gum disease signs requiring specialized care. They might refer you to a periodontist for advanced treatments like gum surgery, dental implants, and other procedures to prepare for implants. Once treated, your general dentist monitors your oral health and helps maintain your results.
This collaboration helps you receive the right care at the right time, supporting both your immediate and long-term oral health.
What Does a Periodontist Do?
Periodontists are skilled in gum and bone health, and dental implant surgeries. After dental school, they complete three years of additional training in diagnosing and treating complex oral health concerns.
A periodontist provides these specialized treatments:
- Gum Disease Treatment: Periodontists address gum disease at all stages, from mild inflammation to more advanced conditions affecting the bone.
- Gum Recession: They treat receding gums to protect tooth roots and improve gumline appearance.
- Dental Implants: Periodontists place dental implants and assess the surrounding bone and gums for proper support.
- Bone Grafting: For patients with bone loss, they rebuild the jawbone to prepare it for implants or to strengthen the teeth’s foundation.
- Cosmetic Procedures: They reshape gums to create a more even and attractive smile.
Periodontists focus on advanced care beyond what a general dentist typically provides.
When To Schedule a Visit with a Periodontist
Knowing when to see a periodontist can make a big difference in protecting your oral health. Schedule a visit if you experience:
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
- Persistent swelling or tenderness in your gums.
- Loose teeth or discomfort when biting
- Teeth that appear longer due to receding gums.
- Missing teeth and are considering dental implants.
- Bone loss diagnosed during dental visits.
If unsure, start with your general dentist, who can refer you to a periodontist when necessary.
Learn More About Our Periodontist in Venice, FL
Both general dentists and periodontists play essential roles in maintaining your oral health. A periodontist can provide the care you need if you’re experiencing gum concerns, missing teeth, or advanced periodontal issues.
Dr. Lisa Turner, a full-time board-certified periodontist in Venice, Florida, offers advanced care for gum health, dental implants, and long-term oral health treatments. Contact us today to learn more about our periodontal treatments or schedule an appointment at Venice Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Take the next step toward improving your oral health and restoring your smile.
