What procedures does a periodontist perform?

As a periodontist, I specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. My role is to ensure the health of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, which is crucial for overall oral health and well-being. Here's a detailed look at the procedures a periodontist performs:


1. Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation: This is the first step in understanding the patient's oral health status. It involves a thorough examination of the gums, bone, and other supporting structures.


2. Scaling and Root Planing: This is a non-surgical procedure where I use specialized dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces, allowing the gums to reattach and heal properly.


3. Root Surface Debridement: Similar to scaling and root planing, this procedure involves the removal of disease-causing bacteria and toxins from the root surfaces to promote healing.


4. Periodontal Flap Surgery: In cases where non-surgical treatments are not enough, I may perform flap surgery. This involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the bone and root surfaces, allowing for a thorough cleaning and the removal of any infected tissue.


5. Bone Grafts and Bone Regeneration: When there is significant bone loss due to periodontal disease, I may recommend bone grafts to restore the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for the teeth.


6. Gum Graft Surgery: This procedure is performed to cover exposed tooth roots or to treat receding gums. It involves taking tissue from the roof of the mouth or using synthetic materials to cover the exposed areas.

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Dental Implants: As a periodontist, I often place dental implants, which are titanium posts that replace the root of a missing tooth. This procedure involves placing the implant into the jawbone and allowing it to integrate before attaching an artificial tooth.

8. **Treatment of Periodontal-Systemic Associations**: Periodontal disease can have systemic effects on the body, and I work closely with other healthcare professionals to manage these conditions.

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Maintenance Therapy: After active periodontal treatment, ongoing maintenance is crucial. This involves regular check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of the gums and to prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease.

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Education and Counseling: A significant part of my job is educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent periodontal disease.

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1. Research and Academic Contributions: As a specialist, I also contribute to the field through research and academic work, helping to advance the understanding and treatment of periodontal diseases.

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2. Teamwork with Other Dental Professionals: I often collaborate with general dentists, orthodontists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for patients.

Periodontists offer a wide range of treatments, such as scaling and root planing (in which the infected surface of the root is cleaned) or root surface debridement (in which damaged tissue is removed). They can also treat patients with severe gum problems using a range of surgical procedures.