A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention and treatment of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. A periodontist also decides on the placement of dental implants and creating treatment plans for patients with missing teeth or gum tissue.
What is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a specialization of dentistry focused on the treatment of gum disease and tooth loss.
Periodontics is a vital aspect of dentistry. Gum disease is very serious and, if left untreated, could progress to the loss of some or all teeth. Most general dentists can take care of general gum line issues, but may refer you to a periodontist for more advanced problems. Fortunately, at CNS Dental, we have a periodontist on staff, Dr. Changi, who sees patients several times a month for specific gum issues.
If you’re experiencing gum pain, schedule an appointment with our periodontist to see if you need specialized treatment.
When Would I Need to See the Periodontist?
The most common reason that you might need to see a periodontist is if you have severe gum recession, gum pain, or gum disease that needs treatment. You may also need to see a periodontist for:
- Tooth replacement options
- Tooth repair options to address bone loss such as bone grafting
- Tooth scaling and root planing
- Soft tissue grafting
Procedures Performed by a Periodontist
The following are some, but not all, procedures performed by a periodontist to address potential gum & tooth issues.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is a procedure that covers the exposed root of a tooth with tissue to protect it from bacteria. The tissue can either come from gum tissue adjacent to the area, the roof of your mouth, or from a cadaver.
One method for gum grafting is the pinhole technique, which involves the use of a small needle to poke holes in the gum line beneath the recession area to loosen the gum so it can be grafted over the exposed area.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling & root planing is a procedure used to treat patients who are dealing with gum disease. The first step is the scaling, in which the periodontist removes any plaque buildup beneath the gum line. The second step is the root planing, in which the periodontist shapes the tooth root and re-attaches the gums to the tooth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are small metallic posts that serve as the anchors for replacement teeth in the form of crowns, bridges, or dentures. The periodontist is responsible for the placement of implants along the gum line.
Pocket Reduction
Pocket reduction surgery aims to reduce the pockets that form between the gum and tooth in which bacteria can form. This surgery is often crucial for saving teeth that could otherwise fall out from periodontal disease.
Who Does Periodontics at CNS Dental?
At CNS Dental, we’re fortunate to have a periodontist on staff: Dr. Khashayar Changi.
Dr. Changi (pictured above) is an expert in dental implants with comprehensive training in both traditional and immediate implant placement. He has extensive experience and a unique talent for providing extractions and implants in the same day. Dr. Changi is especially skilled in tissue grafting.
What Will My Visit to the Periodontist Be Like?
If you’ve never visited our periodontist before, you will begin your appointment by going over your complete dental and medical history, including any medications you are taking or are allergic to.
Dr. Changi will then conduct a complete oral examination, identifying potential gum recession, tooth shifting, tooth enamel weakness or damage, and evidence of periodontal disease.
After that, Dr. Changi will put together a comprehensive plan for how to address your specific issue. Every patient is different, so your plan will be unique to you and your needs.
Periodontist in Arlington, VA
If you are experiencing gum pain or have periodontal disease, it’s crucial you see a dentist before it progresses. We’re currently taking new patients at CNS Dental and can help you begin the process of restoring your smile. Book an appointment today.