Referral to the Periodontist

Why Were You Referred to a Periodontist?

Your dentist has identified signs of gum disease that require a specialist’s care. Initial signs of disease may be treated by the hygienist, but your care requires a higher level of expertise. A periodontist works alongside your dentist and hygienist to provide advanced treatment focused on your gums and supporting tissues.

– You are being referred to ensure the highest standard of care.
– The periodontist will share treatment updates with your dentist.
– This partnership improves long-term outcomes for your dental health.

What Is a Periodontist?

– A periodontist is a dentist with two to three years of advanced training training in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.
– Periodontists are recognized by the American Dental Association as gum and bone specialists.
– They treat complex cases of of periodontal disease and perform specialized procedures such as advanced scaling and root planning (deep cleaning), gum disease surgery, and other procedures under the gums.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

– A chronic bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth.
– It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and affects 3 out of 4 people.

Causes and Symptoms:
– Bacterial plaque and tartar buildup
– Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
– Gum recession, loss of bone support for teeth, and loose teeth

Risk Factors:
– Smoking, stress, diabetes, pregnancy, and family history can increase risk.

Without treatment:
– The infection worsens, pockets of space form around the teeth, bone loss may occur, and eventually lead to tooth loss.

Causes and Symptoms:

– Bacterial plaque and tartar buildup
– Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
– Gum recession and loose teeth due to loss of bone that supports teeth

Risk Factors:

– Smoking, stress, diabetes, viral infection, pregnancy, and family history can increase risk.

Without treatment:

– The infection worsens, pockets form around the teeth, and bone loss may occur, eventually leading to tooth loss.

What to Expect at Your Periodontal Consultation

– Review of your medical and dental history
– Gum and tooth examination
– Measuring pocket depth around each tooth
– Assessment of bone loss and tooth stability and prognosis

What Does Treatment Involve?

Initial treatment usually includes:

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning), can often be completed by the Hygienist:

• Removes plaque and tartar below the gum line
• Smooths root surfaces for better healing

In advanced cases, surgical treatment may be recommended:

• Reduces pocket depth
• Allows easier at-home care and maintenance and better long-term outcomes

After Treatment

– You’ll return to your general dentist for routine care.
– The periodontist may schedule periodic follow-up visits.
– Most importantly, you’ll need to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home:

• Brush and floss daily and utilize medicated mouthrinses
• Avoid smoking
• Stay committed to your regular dental appointments