Start here, then go anywhere.
What is a Periodontist?
Focused the study and treatment of the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth and jaw, a periodontist is a specialist who has completed an additional 3 year residency in periodontics following completion of dental school so they can diagnose, treat, and prevent different forms of periodontal/gum disease.
At Dr. Kevin Sims, DMD we believe in being more than just another one of your health professionals; we believe in being a confidence restorer—giving you confidence in your teeth, your smile, and yourself. Whether medical or cosmetic, we have the services you need to put a smile on your face that will last a lifetime.
What does a periodontist do for gum disease?
For minor to moderate gum disease, treatment starts with less-invasive, non-surgical procedures such as scaling and root planing, in which specialized hand tools are used to deep-clean the surfaces of the teeth below the gum line.
If periodontal disease has progressed such that gum tissue no longer fits snug against the teeth, minor gum surgery might be required to address the loose “pockets.” During a pocket reduction procedure, the periodontist will open a small flap in the gums to remove infected tissue so healthier gum tissue can naturally reattach to the teeth. An alternative less invasive option may be to use an Nd:YAG laser to “tighten up” the loose pockets.
perēōˈdän(t)iks/
noun
- the branch of dentistry concerned with the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth