A periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gum tissue and jawbone and other health or cosmetic issues related to the gums. Periodontal treatment can be highly beneficial for your oral and general health. But at what age should you see a periodontist? Please read our article to learn about the signs you should visit a periodontal specialist.

At What Age Should You See a Periodontist?

In general, patients might notice symptoms of gum disease at an older age. However, even younger people in their 20s might develop this condition. Thus, you should visit a periodontist as soon as you notice any symptoms of gum disease we list below or if you are referred by your general dentist, regardless of your age. You might also require other periodontal procedures, such as crown lengthening or dental implants, to treat conditions that do not depend on your age.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a dangerous condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue. Advanced gum disease can also affect the jawbone, destroying its structure and reducing its density. Left untreated, gum disease undermines the support for the teeth and leads to unstable, shaky teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.

Gum disease develops because plaque and tartar buildup promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. This typically happens due to insufficient oral hygiene. A genetic predisposition can also play a role in the development of periodontitis.

Sings You Should See a Periodontist

Symptoms that suggest you should see a periodontal specialist as soon as possible because you might have gum disease include:

• Recurring bleeding of the gums
• Sore, tender, or painful gums
• Swelling of the gums
• Gums that changed color to red, dark purple, or black
• Teeth that feel unstable in their sockets
• Pain in teeth when chewing food
• Receding gums (gums that “pull away” from the teeth, exposing more of their surface or roots)
• Pus coming out of the gums
• Pimples or cysts on the gums
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth that does not go away after brushing your teeth and flossing
• Teeth that are sensitive to changes in temperature

Other reasons you might consider visiting a periodontist include:

• You already have been diagnosed with gum disease and require treatment.
• You need laser procedures or pocket reduction surgery to treat gum disease.
• You are missing teeth and considering dental implants.
• You require jaw bone restorative treatments, such as bone grafting.
• You require gum grafting in preparation for dental implants.
• You need crown lengthening to treat a “gummy smile.”

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

Preventive dentistry is the best way to ensure your dental health. Take these measures that can help you avoid periodontal disease:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to reach all areas in your mouth and spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth—30 seconds for each side of your mouth.
• Floss every evening to remove bacteria, food debris, and plaque deposits between your teeth.
  Try using a water flosser. It has been proven to improve the condition of the gums and teeth when used in addition to brushing and flossing. Dentists recommend using a water flosser as a first step in your oral hygiene routine to loosen up the debris and plaque and boost the effectiveness of your fluoride toothpaste. Remember that a water flosser can not replace traditional brushing or flossing. However, in cases when patients can not use traditional floss due to excessive gum bleeding, a water flosser can be used instead. Consult your dentist to receive personalized advice on how to use the device in your case.
• Rinse your mouth after meals to prevent food debris and bacteria from lingering in your mouth for too long.
• Schedule regular appointments with your dentist for checkups and professional cleanings. Both these procedures should be done every 6 to 12 months. This way, you will ensure that plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth and gums before they can start causing infection, gum disease, and tooth decay. Regular checkups will also help to spot any potential problems before they worsen and require expensive and complicated treatments.

Make an Appointment Today

If you have any of the symptoms of gum disease or need a consultation, do not hesitate to call our office and make an appointment with a periodontal dentist in Los Angeles. Specialists at LA Wilshire Perio will conduct a comprehensive examination to give you an accurate diagnosis and offer the most effective course of treatment. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our dental office.