When thinking of your oral health, the first professional that comes to mind is likely a dentist. A dentist does a great job of monitoring your oral health and keeping your teeth clean. But, what if your gums need cleaning? If that’s the case, it’s best to contact a periodontist on Long Island.
What Is A Periodontist?
A periodontist is a licensed professional dentist whose specialty is the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and other issues of the gums related to oral inflammation. Sometimes referred to as “the plastic surgeons of dentistry,” periodontists and treat gum inflammation and periodontitis, perform gum grafting techniques, and place dental implants.
What Is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, occurs when bacteria begins to gather on the gum line. Over time, if not cleaned, the bacteria begin to pull the gums away from the tooth, causing gums to recede. This allows bacteria to then enter the root area of the tooth. Once this occurs, you may end up losing your teeth, requiring dental implants or denture services to restore your smile.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. It affects millions of Americans each year, many of whom aren’t aware they are suffering from the disease. This is because most would not suspect that they have gum disease until they begin to lose teeth or suffer from severe pain, at which point there are major problems that will need to be addressed by a periodontist on Long Island.
Signs That You May Need To See A Periodontist
If you exhibit any of the following warning signs, it may be in your best interest to visit a periodontist.
- You notice that your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding and symptoms are enhanced when brushing or flossing.
- You are constantly suffering from bad breath. This is a sign that bacteria are building up in your mouth, and has likely made its way to your gums.
- You notice that your gums are receding or pockets are beginning to develop between your teeth and your gums.
- Your teeth become loose.
- You begin to feel pain in your mouth, especially when eating.
- You suffer from tooth sensitivity, a sign that the root of your tooth is exposed.
- Gum disease runs in your family.
- You are a smoker. Even if you quit smoking, you are still at risk for gum disease.
- You suffer from diabetes.
Of course, the best way to monitor potential gum disease is to regularly visit a periodontist on Long Island. Annual check-ups can help ensure that your mouth is healthy. It is easier to treat the beginning stages of gum disease, rather than advanced forms of gum disease.
