Difference between a dentist and a periodonist?

Dental professionals are a necessity when it comes to your oral health. Typically, a general dentist is able to help you with the majority of concerns you have, or cleanings you may need in your lifetime. However, there are some instances that require the help of a Periodontist. How do you know when a dentist just isn’t enough?

A dentist is great for cleanings, checkups, x-rays or advice on dental hygiene.  Filling cavities and root canals, standard extractions, and crowns or bridges all can be taken care of by your family dentist. But with it comes to the tissue and bone in your mouth, a Periodontist is the route you want to take. A Periodontist is responsible for knowing more about the gums, tissue, and bones associated with your mouth. Usually, they are the professionals who diagnose gum disease, such as gingivitis and a disease the effects your gums and bone called periodontitis. They also aid in treating any diseases of the soft tissue or bone in your mouth. Periodontitis often shows itself with bleeding, tender or swollen gums, loose teeth as well as oral pain.

While your dentist should not be discredited, they will not be able to help you achieve optimal oral health if your mouth is already compromised. Without a strong gum line and bone structure, dentists are unable to treat any issues you may be having. This is when a Periodontist comes into play. With their expertise and your dedication, Periodontist are often able to reverse the effects of gum diseases and keep them from recurring.

At the end of it all, the biggest difference between a Dentist and a Periodontist is their studied area of expertise. With regular dentist visits and proper care of your teeth, a periodontist is not needed.

For more information you can call our dentist in Houston, TX today!