When to See a Periodontist

A periodontist specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating infections and diseases in the soft tissues surrounding the teeth, as well as the jawbone to which teeth are anchored. After completing four years of dental school, periodontists undergo an additional three years of training to master advanced techniques for treating periodontal disease and placing dental implants. They also perform a wide range of cosmetic procedures to enhance your smile to its fullest extent.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease begins in the soft tissue surrounding your teeth when toxins in plaque attack the gums. The infection process includes:

Bacteria embedding in the gum tissue and rapidly breeding
Inflammation developing between teeth and gums
Body’s immune response destroying infected tissue
Formation of deepening pockets between teeth
Potential jawbone recession and tooth instability

Getting Treatment

Referral Process

You can see a periodontist in two ways:

Referral from your general dentist during a regular checkup
Direct scheduling without a referral

Warning Signs to Watch For

Schedule an appointment immediately if you notice:

Bleeding while eating or brushing your teeth
Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene
Loose teeth or receding gums
Presence of gangrene in tissues
Related health conditions like heart disease or diabetes

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Assessment Levels

Your periodontist will determine the appropriate treatment based on the severity of your condition:

Mild Periodontal Disease (pockets > 4mm):

Scaling and root planing
Education on effective cleaning techniques

Moderate Disease (pockets 4-6mm):

More extensive scaling and root planing
Usually performed under local anesthetic

Advanced Disease (pockets > 6-7mm):

Initial nonsurgical treatments
Possible surgical intervention to reduce pocket depth
Treatment for bone loss and gum recession

Tooth Loss Solutions

When teeth are lost to periodontal disease, your periodontist might recommend:

Dental implants (if bone structure is adequate)
Bone grafts (if additional jawbone support is needed)

Why Choose Us as Your Emergency Dentist in Rancho Bernardo

Selecting Anchor Dental & Implant Center as your emergency dentist in Rancho Bernardo means choosing a team that combines extensive experience with genuine compassion. We understand the stress and uncertainty that accompany dental emergencies, and we’re dedicated to providing not just expert treatment, but also a supportive, reassuring experience. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced techniques ensure that you receive the highest quality emergency dental care in Rancho Bernardo.

Contact Your Emergency Dentist in Rancho Bernardo Now

Don’t let dental emergencies disrupt your life or compromise your health. For immediate assistance and expert care, reach out to our emergency dentist in Rancho Bernardo today. We’re here to provide the swift, effective treatment you need to restore your smile and your peace of mind.

FAQs About Emergency Dentist Services in Rancho Bernardo

Here are some frequently asked questions about our emergency dentist services in Rancho Bernardo:

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dental specialist with three additional years of training beyond dental school who focuses on treating gum diseases, placing dental implants, and managing the soft tissues and bone supporting the teeth.

What does a periodontist do?

A periodontist prevents, diagnoses, and treats infections and diseases in the tissues surrounding the teeth, performs dental implant procedures, and provides various cosmetic treatments to enhance your smile.

Remember to consult your periodontist with any specific questions about periodontal disease, treatment options, or dental implants.

When to See a Periodontist