People don’t pay as much attention to gum health as they do to whiter teeth. Yes, your teeth play a dominant role in that perfect smile, but without healthy gums, you are risking dental disease. Periodontists are experts who specialize in the prevention and treatment of gum disease. They need to complete three additional years of training after dental school to become specialists in the field. While there are many dedicated clinics for periodontics in Pleasantville, NY, do you know when to see a periodontist? We take a look at some of the common signs. 

You have gum bleeding and pain 

If you have periodontal abscess or infection, you may experience symptoms like pain, inflammation, and bleeding. Bleeding from your gums while brushing and flossing is one of the earliest signs of gum disease, also called gingivitis. The good news is seeing a periodontist at this point can help reverse the damage before things get worse. 

You have persistent bad breath

Chronic bad breath is also called halitosis. For many people, halitosis is more like a cause for embarrassment, but it also indicates an underlying problem. If you have bad breath and have tried everything from freshening toothpaste to good mouthwashes with no results, you have to check with a periodontist. You can even see your dentist, who may recommend seeing a gum disease expert. 

You have teeth sensitivity

There are many reasons for heightened sensitivity, but if you have advanced periodontal disease, you are more likely to suffer from this concern. If gum disease is the reason, it means your gum tissues have recessed, and as a result, the teeth roots are exposed. Watch out for symptoms, such as having issues while eating hot and cold foods. Even if the reason is not periodontal disease, you have to meet your dentist to identify the cause. 

Your gums have evident recessed

Advanced periodontal disease also causes gum recession, which can make your natural teeth look longer. In the long run, your teeth can become weak and come out. This happens because there are deep pockets between your teeth and gums, which causes the bone and gums to separate. Check with your periodontist soon to learn how you can address the issue. Common treatments include gum grafting and pocket reduction surgery. 

You are worried about genetics

Some people are just predisposed to periodontal disease because gum issues run within the family. If you feel concerned, make sure to check with your periodontist to know how you can prevent gum disease and keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

An overview of common periodontal procedures

If you go for regular dental cleaning and exams, the chances are high that your dentist will spot periodontal disease before symptoms get worse. However, when you have gum disease, your periodontist may recommend one of the following treatments. 

1. Scaling and root planing: These are deep cleaning procedures, which help get rid of plaque and tartar below and above the gum line. Together, you may need two visits, and as required, your dentist may use local anesthesia. 
2. Root surface debridement: If you have damaged root tissues, your periodontist may do this procedure. 
3. Gum grafting: When there is a drastic loss of gum tissue, you may need a gum graft. Your dentist will usually harvest the graft from the roof of your mouth and place it in areas where you have suffered gum recession. 

There are also other treatments, such as flap surgery. 

Final takeaway

Don’t wait for periodontal disease to get to the next stage. Check with a periodontist in Pleasantville if you experience any of the following symptoms.