Dentist specializing in periodontology

A periodontist is a dentist who has studied periodontology intensively—the branch of dentistry that focuses on the supporting structures of the teeth. The periodontist is thus specialized in the correct diagnosis of periodontal diseases (e.g., periodontitis or gingivitis), in designing and implementing a complex treatment plan, and in structuring prevention programs tailored to the needs of each individual patient.

The supporting structure of the teeth is called "periodontium" in periodontology and consists of: alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments, root covering structure (cementum), and gums.

• GUM – normally, it should be pink in color and firm in consistency, attached to the tooth. It covers and protects the root surface and alveolar bone. The gum located between two adjacent teeth is called the interdental gum or interdental papilla. Normally, it should fill the entire space below the contact point and have a triangular shape. Its role is to prevent aggressive impact from food during chewing. The absence of interdental gums indicates the onset or progression of periodontal disease.
• ALVEOLAR BONE – The alveolar bone is located in the structure of the maxillary bones – upper and lower – called the "alveolar process." The alveolus is the bony compartment that supports the root of the tooth, a bony continuation of the mandible or maxilla that forms a conical cavity. This bone forms at the same time as the tooth, supports it, and disappears when it is lost.
• CEMENTUM – represents the outer layer of the tooth root. It covers the dentin and serves as an attachment area for the collagen fibers in the periodontal ligament. It has a much lower hardness than enamel and is yellowish in color. For this reason, when there is gum recession and the root is exposed, the unsightly effect is marked: there is a clear distinction between the white, smooth surface of the enamel and the yellowish, slightly uneven surface of the cementum. The sooner the cause of gum recession is detected and the sooner the right treatment is started, the more dental tissue we can save and the more we can avoid unpleasant unsightly effects.
• PERIODONTAL LIGAMENT – anchors the tooth in the dental alveolus and reduces the external forces exerted on it. It consists of dense, orderly, well-vascularized connective tissue that forms strong connections between the alveolar processes and cementum.

Although prevention is key to maintaining healthy periodontal structures, if a condition develops, a periodontist is the specialist who can act quickly to save the dental structures described above, thereby saving the teeth. When the gum disease is superficial, the treatment is simple, usually consisting of proper cleaning at the dentist's office and decontamination and laser assistance. If the bacteria have penetrated deep into the periodontal pockets and destroyed bone, gum, or ligament tissue, more complex treatment is necessary (e.g., aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, periodontitis as systemic manifestations, necrotic, abscesses, etc.). In this case, the periodontist can perform various procedures aimed at removing bacteria, cleaning and smoothing the root surfaces, or regenerating tissue. The sooner the patient sees a doctor, the sooner proper and complete treatment can be established, reducing the risk of losing the supporting structures of the teeth.

With today's state-of-the-art technology, such as laser devices, prgf technology, pain therapy, and micro-instruments for root surface planing, patient comfort is enhanced during dental appointments, results are more predictable, and the chances of recurrence are much lower.

If you would like to learn more about how to prevent or treat gingivitis or periodontitis, please feel free to schedule an appointment online and discuss with one of our doctors specializing in periodontology.