Introduction

Visiting your regular dentist is great for routine dental care, but sometimes you might need to see a specialist for specific dental problems. If your dentist has talked about things like soft tissue grafts or gum recession, or if you often deal with gum disease, it might be a good idea to visit a gum specialist. If you’re unsure about visiting them, you’re in the right place. We will discuss some of the reasons that you might need to consult these specialists.

Who is a Gum Specialist or Periodontist?

A Periodontist, generally known as a Gum Specialist is a medical professional who focuses on preventing, identifying, and treating gum disease. They also help manage issues like oral inflammation caused by advancing gum problems.

Gum disease usually occurs when the area around your teeth gets infected which then leads to inflammation. Bacteria that form plaque on your teeth typically cause this inflammation as it spreads beneath the gum line.

The initial stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it can be controlled with treatment, proper oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups. However, if it advances to periodontitis, more extensive treatment may be necessary, and that’s when you should consult a gum specialist. They will assess your dental and medical histories, conduct a dental examination, and specify the best treatment option for you.

Difference Between a Dentist and a Gum Specialist

Reasons To See a Gum Specialist

Your regular dentist can handle certain gum issues, but if your gum disease is getting more serious, and complicated, or puts your teeth at risk, your dentist may send you to a specialist. Check for signs like those mentioned and schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss whether seeing a gum specialist doctor is necessary.

Swollen gums

Bacteria that create plaque and tartar can cause inflammation and swells, usually the initial signal of gingivitis. This inflammation can create pockets around your teeth, increasing the risk of infection and potential tooth loss, if not treated at the initial stage. Swollen gums would make your teeth appear smaller and have a dark red colour instead of a healthy pink.

You can address this inflammation with a thorough cleaning session at the dentist and good oral care at home. However, in some cases, it’s essential to seek prompt advice from a specialist in this field.

Consistent bad breath

We’ve all had a case of bad breath – it’s like a little signal from our mouth and body. Bad breath, or halitosis, can pop up for reasons like not drinking enough water, not cleaning things like clear aligners properly, using tobacco, neglecting oral health, having bacteria on your tongue, or dealing with gum disease.

If your breath lingers despite brushing and flossing, it might hint at a larger gum problem. A quick search for a “gum specialist near me” and visiting one can help discover the reasons behind it and help put a stop to the not-so-pleasant breath situation.

Bleeding gums

If your gums easily bleed when you brush, floss, or eat, and they feel tender when touched, this could be because of inflammation. If you see any of these signs or notice pink on your toothbrush or spit out blood while brushing or flossing, it’s crucial to visit your specialist for a checkup.

Gum line receding

Gums retracting isn’t always due to gum disease. It may also occur due to excessive brushing or brushing too hard, thus damaging gum tissue. In this case, a specialist can address this for cosmetic reasons and might reduce the chance of future gum problems. If gum recession isn’t linked to excessive brushing, it could be a sign of progressive gum disease. These conditions demand a gum specialist doctor to take a deeper look into the issue and provide you with the right treatment.

Loose teeth

If you get periodontitis, it can create deep pockets around your teeth, making them feel wiggly and loose. This makes your teeth loose and causes trouble when chewing. Also, loose teeth could mean your bones are getting weaker.

Aren’t your grown-up teeth supposed to stay strong for a long time? So, if you notice your teeth changing or new gaps between them, it’s a good idea to make a gum appointment.

Conclusion

If you have gum issues, it’s essential to visit a professional promptly. Taking care of your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth. Consider visiting the Ashburton Dental Centre in Perth for our excellent dental service. We concentrate on keeping your mouth healthy and your smile bright. You can also do a quick Google search for “gum specialist near me” to open up to more options. Remember, fixing gum issues early can help you avoid bigger problems later.