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Who is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who is certified through advanced course work, experience, and studies in periodontics, one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Periodontists specialize in treating gum disease  using specific techniques, as well as preventing and diagnosing periodontal disease. Since gum disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss, periodontists also specialize in one of the most effective tooth replacement techniques, dental implants. At Riverside Dental Associates, we have an experienced periodontist on our team to help you reclaim your oral health from the ravages of periodontal disease.

How can a periodontist help me?

During the first appointment, the periodontist will examine your health records for specific medications, diseases, or hormonal conditions that may contribute to gum disease or hinder successful treatment. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are all characterized by hormonal changes that affect the course of periodontal disease. Our Riverside periodontist will also take into account any diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory diseases that you may have had before or after gum disease.

How does a periodontist diagnose gum disease severity?

Our experienced periodontist will determine the severity of your periodontal disease by assessing gum recession, probing periodontal pockets, and taking x-rays to check for bone damage beneath the gum line. As periodontitis progresses, gingival tissue recedes further, the pockets between teeth and gums become deeper, and eventually, the infection reaches the jawbone.

How can my gum disease be treated?

After determining  your risk factors and the severity of your gum disease, our periodontist can decide which treatment will offer you the best results. Typically, scaling and root planing can clear up infection and allow the gum tissue to successfully reconnect. In more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary to not only remove infection, but also to build back destroyed bone and gum tissue.

Periodontist in Riverside

If you are experiencing the symptoms of gum disease, do not lat your oral health deteriorate. Contact one of our dental offices nearest you. We serve patients throughout Riverside County, including Corona, Temecula, and Moreno Valley. We look forward to helping you and your family achieve optimal oral health.