7 Reasons to Visit a Periodontist

Oral hygiene affects not only your teeth but also your overall health. While most people understand why they should go to a dentist when they have a toothache, periodontists are different. Many people don't even know who these specialists are or what they do. A periodontist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the tissues surrounding the teeth (gums, bone tissue, periodontitis). These tissues are collectively known as the periodontium.

Periodontal diseases develop slowly, but can have serious consequences: from bad breath to tooth loss to systemic inflammation. In this article, we have gathered seven weighty reasons why you should make an appointment with a periodontist.

1. Bleeding gums when brushing your teeth

Many people think that gum bleeding while brushing their teeth is normal. But this is not true. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease, usually gingivitis. Causes can include plaque, poor oral hygiene, or a vitamin deficiency.

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, a more serious condition in which bone tissue is destroyed and the teeth begin to loosen. At the first signs of bleeding, don’t wait for it to go away on its own. It is best to consult a periodontist who can determine the cause and choose a treatment.

2. Bad breath

Halitosis (persistent bad breath) can have various causes: gastrointestinal diseases, smoking, and poor hygiene. However, gum disease and periodontitis are often the cause. When bacteria accumulate in the oral cavity, especially in the pockets between the teeth and gums, they actively multiply. This leads to the breakdown of food debris and the release of sulfur compounds, which cause unpleasant bad breath. A periodontist not only eliminates the symptoms but also treats the cause. After a professional teeth cleaning and proper care, the problem usually disappears.

3. Loose teeth

Teeth can become loose, and not only in children. This is also a worrying sign in adults. The cause may be the destruction of the structures that support the teeth – ligaments, gums, and bone tissue.

This may be due to advanced periodontitis, where the inflammation has already destroyed the bone tissue. In this case, an immediate visit to a periodontist is necessary to save your teeth and stop the progression of the disease.

4. Exposed tooth necks

Have you noticed that your teeth have become longer and that the edge between the teeth and gums is sensitive? This may indicate exposed tooth necks – a sign of gum recession. Recession can have many causes: incorrect brushing technique, too hard, hormonal changes, and inflammation.  If you do not take care of it on time, surgical treatment may be necessary later. A periodontist will explain how to stop the process and restore the health of your gums.

5. Tartar and plaque

Even with thorough brushing in the morning and evening, plaque can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, it mineralizes and turns into tartar. Tartar is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. It irritates the gums, promotes inflammation, and forms periodontal pockets. A periodontist performs a professional teeth cleaning and removes plaque and tartar not only above, but also below the gum line. This reduces the risk of inflammation.

6. Planning a pregnancy

It may seem surprising, but gum health is directly related to a woman's reproductive health. Studies show that women with periodontitis have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy, like premature birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can worsen gingivitis, even if there were no previous problems. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a periodontist before planning a pregnancy, for prevention and, if necessary, treatment.

7. General health impact

A periodontist not only treats teeth and gums, but also helps maintain the health of the whole body. Inflammation in the oral cavity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and other health issues.

Bacteria from periodontal pockets can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation. This is especially dangerous for people with chronic diseases. Regular visits to a periodontist reduce these risks and help maintain overall health.