Taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. If you’re dealing with gum problems or have been told you need a specialist, it might be time to see a periodontist in Indianapolis Indiana. Periodontists are dental experts who focus on the structures that support your teeth, like gums and bones. They help treat gum disease and place dental implants, among other things. In this blog post, we’ll explore why seeing a periodontist matters, what they do, and what to expect during your visit.
What Does a Periodontist Do?
A periodontist is a dentist who has gone through extra training—usually three more years—after dental school. Their job is to help people who are dealing with gum disease or who need special dental treatments that involve the gums or jawbone.
Treating Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, starts with simple symptoms like bleeding gums and bad breath. If not treated, it can lead to tooth loss. A periodontist can treat gum disease at all stages. For early gum disease, they might do a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. For more advanced cases, they might need to do surgery to clean out infected areas and help the gums heal.
Placing Dental Implants
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a periodontist can place dental implants. These are small metal posts that are placed into your jawbone to hold a replacement tooth. A periodontist makes sure the bone and gums around the implant are healthy, which helps the implant last longer.
Cosmetic Gum Treatments
Sometimes gums can look uneven or cover too much of your teeth. A periodontist can reshape your gums to make your smile look better. This is called cosmetic gum surgery and can help if you feel self-conscious about your smile.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
Many people wait too long to see a periodontist. You should consider visiting one if:
- Your gums bleed when you brush or floss
- You have bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Your teeth feel loose
- You have a family history of gum disease
- Your dentist recommends it
It’s also a good idea to see a periodontist in Indianapolis Indiana if you’re thinking about getting dental implants. They can make sure your gums and bones are healthy enough for the procedure.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
Your first visit to a periodontist is a lot like a regular dental visit but with a few extra steps. They’ll ask about your health history, check your gums, measure the spaces between your teeth and gums, and maybe take X-rays.
This helps them see how serious your gum disease is or what other treatments you might need. After the exam, the periodontist will explain what’s going on and suggest a treatment plan. They’ll also answer any questions you have.
Why Choose a Local Periodontist?
Choosing a periodontist in your local area, like Indianapolis Indiana, has a lot of benefits. First, it’s easier to get to your appointments. Gum treatments often need several visits, so being close by saves time and stress. Second, local periodontists know the dental community in your area. They can work closely with your regular dentist to make sure you’re getting the best care.
Finding the Right Periodontist
When looking for a periodontist in Indianapolis Indiana, it’s important to check their experience and reviews. Look for someone who is board-certified and has good feedback from other patients. A comfortable office and friendly staff can also make a big difference, especially if you’re nervous about dental visits.
Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy
Even if you don’t have gum disease now, it’s still important to keep your gums healthy. Here are some simple tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss every day
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Avoid smoking, which can harm your gums
- Eat a healthy diet full of vitamins and minerals
If you follow these tips, you can lower your chances of needing gum treatment in the future.
Don’t Wait to Get Help
Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain at first, but it can do a lot of damage over time. That’s why it’s important to act quickly if you notice any warning signs. A periodontist in Indianapolis Indiana can help you get back on track and protect your smile for years to come.
Whether you need treatment for gum disease, want to improve your smile, or are thinking about dental implants, a periodontist has the skills to help. Don’t wait—your oral health is too important to ignore.
About the Author
