There are many different types of dental specialists, with one of the most significant being a periodontist. Many people do not know what they do or when to visit this type of specialist. Below are a few facts you should know about this dental profession.

What Is a Periodontist?

In technical terms, a periodontist is someone who specializes in periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. You might think that this would apply to any dentist, but periodontists undergo additional training that allows them to prevent and treat more complex issues with severe gum disease. 

The treatments that they perform include root planing, scaling, and dental implant repair. They also handle cosmetic and restorative procedures to improve your smile’s appearance and dental health. These specialists determine what is best for a patient based on the severity of their condition as well as their overall medical history.

When Should You See One?

While you can address minor gum disease issues at a dental office, you should visit a periodontist for more complex issues.  Your dentist or orthodontist can determine if you should seek treatment from a periodontist.

If you do not address gum issues promptly, they can lead to severe problems, such as loose teeth and receding gums. You may need significant work to help the gums and ensure that damage to this area doesn’t cause lasting harm.

You can trust Mosling Orthodontics in La Crosse, WI for all your orthodontic needs. Serving the Coulee Region for over 20 years, Dr. Mosling and his staff provide caring, personalized treatment to help families enjoy improved dental health. To learn more about their services, visit them online. Schedule an appointment by calling (608) 782-1950.