When most people think about oral health, they think about brushing, flossing, and seeing their dentist for regular checkups to prevent cavities. While these are crucial steps, many people overlook one essential component of oral health: their gums. Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and neglecting them can lead to serious oral and overall health problems. This is why seeing a periodontist is so important.
At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, our team of board-certified periodontists, Dr. Mitchel S. Godat, Dr. Grant T. King, and Dr. Olga Byakina, are experts in diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease as well as performing advanced procedures like dental implant placement. In this article, we will explain why gum health matters, the signs of periodontal disease, and why choosing a periodontist is one of the best decisions you can make for your oral health.
What Exactly Is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the health of the supporting structures of your teeth, primarily your gums and jawbone. After completing dental school, a periodontist undergoes an additional three years of specialized training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease as well as advanced procedures like soft tissue grafting, bone regeneration, and the placement of dental implants.
While general dentists focus on overall oral health, periodontists are trained to handle complex cases involving gum infections, bone loss, and advanced periodontal treatments that require specialized expertise. If you have gum issues that go beyond routine cleaning and scaling, a periodontist is the right professional to help restore your oral health.
Why Gum Health Is So Important
Healthy gums are essential for keeping your teeth firmly in place and protecting your jawbone from deterioration. They also act as a barrier against harmful bacteria that can enter your bloodstream and impact other areas of your health. Neglecting gum health can lead to periodontal disease, an infection that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth.
Periodontal disease is incredibly common. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly half of adults aged 30 and older have some form of gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss, but its impact goes beyond the mouth. Numerous studies have linked periodontal disease to serious systemic conditions, including:
- Heart disease: Inflammation from gum disease can contribute to cardiovascular issues.
- Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and diabetes increases the risk of gum disease.
- Stroke: Chronic inflammation from gum infections may increase the risk of stroke.
- Respiratory issues: Bacteria from gum disease can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to infections or worsening conditions like COPD.
This is why regular visits to a periodontist are so important, particularly if you are experiencing early warning signs of gum disease or are at higher risk due to health conditions.
Signs You Should See a Periodontist
How do you know when it is time to see a periodontist? Here are some signs and symptoms you should never ignore:
- Bleeding gums: Healthy gums should not bleed during brushing or flossing. Persistent bleeding is often one of the first signs of gum disease.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums: Inflammation is a clear indicator that something is wrong.
- Receding gums: If your teeth look longer than they used to, your gums may be receding due to gum disease.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth: This can be caused by bacteria that thrive in periodontal pockets.
- Loose or shifting teeth: As gum disease progresses, it destroys the bone that supports your teeth, leading to mobility issues.
- Pain when chewing: Discomfort when eating can be a sign of advanced gum problems.
Even if you do not have noticeable symptoms, you might be at higher risk for gum disease if you smoke, have diabetes, are pregnant, or have a family history of periodontal disease. A periodontist can help identify problems early and develop a plan to keep your gums healthy.
What Makes Periodontal Associates of Memphis Different?
At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, we pride ourselves on providing world-class periodontal care in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Our team, led by Dr. Mitchel S. Godat, Dr. Grant T. King, and Dr. Olga Byakina, has years of specialized training and experience in treating all levels of periodontal disease and performing advanced procedures that help patients restore their oral health.
Advanced Periodontal Treatments
- Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar below the gum line to halt gum disease progression.
- Gum grafting: For patients experiencing gum recession, we perform gum grafts to restore the natural gum line and protect exposed roots.
- Bone regeneration: Advanced regenerative procedures help rebuild bone lost due to gum disease, providing a strong foundation for teeth or dental implants.
- Dental implants: Whether you have lost one tooth or multiple teeth, our periodontists are skilled in placing high-quality dental implants for a natural-looking and long-lasting solution.
- Laser periodontal therapy: We use cutting-edge laser technology to treat gum disease with minimal discomfort and faster healing times.
Patient-Centered Care
We understand that visiting a specialist can feel intimidating, which is why we focus on making every patient experience as comfortable as possible. From the moment you walk into our Memphis office, our friendly team is dedicated to addressing your concerns, explaining treatment options, and guiding you through every step of your care.
How Seeing a Periodontist Can Improve Your Overall Health
Taking care of your gums is about more than keeping your teeth in place. Good gum health has been linked to a lower risk of systemic diseases and improved overall well-being. For example:
- Better heart health: Treating gum inflammation may reduce cardiovascular risks.
- Improved diabetes control: Managing periodontal disease can make it easier to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Healthier pregnancy: Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight, making periodontal care essential for expecting mothers.
Investing in your gum health through specialized periodontal care could significantly improve not only your oral health but also your general health.
Why Choose Periodontal Associates of Memphis?
When you choose Periodontal Associates of Memphis, you are choosing a team with decades of experience and a commitment to excellence. Whether you need routine periodontal maintenance, advanced treatment for gum disease, or dental implants, you can trust our skilled periodontists to deliver the highest level of care.
We use the latest technology, including 3D imaging and laser dentistry, to provide precise, effective, and comfortable treatments. Our goal is to restore your oral health and give you a smile you can be proud of for years to come.
Take the First Step Toward Healthy Gums Today
Do not wait until gum disease leads to serious problems like tooth loss or systemic health issues. If you live in Memphis, TN, and want expert care for your gum health, contact Periodontal Associates of Memphis today to schedule your appointment. Our experienced periodontists, Dr. Mitchel S. Godat, Dr. Grant T. King, and Dr. Olga Byakina, are here to help you protect your smile and your overall health.