When Should I See My Rochester Periodontist?

by | Aug 30, 2019

If you are experiencing issues with the health of your teeth, gums or jaw, it may be time to make an appointment with Dr. Thomas Zahavi, a Rochester Periodontist.

A periodontist is a type of dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease which affects the structures that support your teeth. Periodontists provide a specialized level of care beyond that of your general dentist. They focus on treating inflammation and disease in the gums, as well as repairing damaged teeth and gums and placing dental implants when necessary.

Dentist vs. Periodontist

Periodontists differ from dentists in a couple of significant ways. First, periodontists must complete an additional three years of educational training beyond dental school, making them experts in treating periodontal disease, placing dental implants and treating oral inflammation.

Secondly, dentists and periodontists treat different oral ailments.  A family dentist is trained in preventative care and more basic needs such as routine cleanings, fillings, and root canals. While your dentist can treat early stages of periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, they are not able to provide you with the treatment necessary to fix the damaging effects of severe gum inflammation or disease.

Your Rochester periodontist is especially skilled at treating periodontitis, a serious gum disease that affects your jaw and the integrity of your teeth, and in some cases requires surgery. Furthermore, a periodontist can help with complicated or surgical needs such as soft tissue grafting, crown lengthening, and laser surgeries.

Causes and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a general term for gum disease. There are different types of gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is mild and fairly common, but can quickly turn to periodontitis if left untreated.

Periodontitis damages the tissue and bone surrounding your teeth, and if left untreated will lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis occurs when bacteria and plaque buildup on your teeth, and in the pockets around each tooth. Good oral hygiene can prevent periodontitis by preventing plaque and bacteria from building and damaging your teeth and gums.

Symptoms of periodontitis include swollen, painful, or bleeding gums, tooth loss, and gum recession. Periodontitis is treated with a visit to your periodontist, who will put together a treatment plan that is specific to your individual needs.

Depending on your case, some of the treatments of periodontitis include prescription medications, smoothing the root of your tooth to remove any additional places for bacteria to grow, removing tartar from beneath your gums, surgery, or even bone or tissue grafts. Your periodontist will work closely and carefully to repair the damage to your teeth and gums and help you create healthier habits to prevent the disease from recurring.

What Else Does a Rochester Periodontist Help With?

Aside from treating gum disease, periodontists can help with a variety of other dental needs as well.

Dental implants:

Whether you need a single tooth replaced or a full-mouth restoration, dental implants are an excellent option for many patients who require tooth replacement.

Gum Surgery:

There are many reasons why a patient might require gum surgery, and your periodontist can provide you with any gum surgery you need. Lengthening crowns, grafting soft tissue, regenerating bone or gum loss, and periodontal maintenance are just a few of the ways a periodontist can help ensure your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible.

Sedation Dentistry:

Visits with a dental professional can be scary for a lot of patients. Sedation dentistry is just one way that we can provide our patients with a high level of care without the anxiety, fear, or pain of being awake for the duration of a procedure. If you have a lot of dental work that needs to be done, a sensitive gag reflex, or very sensitive teeth, being sedated might be the best option for you while you undergo any dental treatment.

Aesthetic Dentistry:

Your periodontist can perform any aesthetic procedures you may need or want to feel and look your best.

Visiting your periodontist is an essential step in your journey for a healthier, happier smile. From treating periodontal disease to creating a healthy smile you love and cherish, your periodontist can provide you the services you need. Schedule an appointment with Rochester’s best periodontist, Dr. Thomas Zahavi, to get started.

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