“Why do my gums hurt?” This is a common question we face in some circumstances. Painful or bleeding gums occur because of poor oral hygiene, gum diseases, infection, or hormonal changes. This is when a periodontist is needed. A periodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses and treats issues related to gum and bones in your mouth.

Gum diseases happen when infections arise in the tissues around the teeth. This condition causes severe swelling that extends below the gum line. The preliminary stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. It can be rectified by a good oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits. But untreated, gingivitis could worsen into a serious gum disease called periodontitis.

Role of the Periodontist

Periodontists are highly trained dentists who diagnose and treat different stages of periodontitis. Using modern state of art technology, they ensure that all periodontal procedures are carried out with minimal pain and stress. An expert periodontist will go through the diagnostic steps below to determine the severity of periodontitis.

• Review your health records
• Examine plaque development in your mouth
• Measure the pocket depth between the gum and teeth
• Observe dental X-ray to evaluate the severity of the disease

Expert diagnosis of periodontitis can determine the complexity of the treatment, risk factors, and overall health. Periodontitis treatment aims to clean the tooth pockets to remove the plaque and make the surrounding bone strong. 

Non-surgical periodontal treatment includes scaling, root planing, and antibiotics. On the other hand, surgical periodontal treatment may include flap surgery, soft tissue grafts, and bone grafting.

When to See a Periodontist

With timely diagnosis, an expert periodontist can reverse the damage and restore a healthy gum line. If you spot the following signs, schedule an appointment with a periodontist to get the right treatment at the right time.

• Bleeding while brushing
• Bad breath
• Bite changes
• Swollen and red gums
• Loose Teeth
• Receding gums
• Pain and discomfort

During the dental visit, a periodontist could recommend simple prevention techniques to keep gum diseases at bay. 

• Brush your teeth twice a day 
• Floss every day
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Replace your toothbrush every three months
• Use a mouth rinse after every meal
• Schedule dental visits regularly
• Get a professional dental cleaning

If you notice the signs of gingivitis or rapidly progressing periodontal disease, consult with our expert periodontist at Tijuana Dental Studio, Calle Quinta, Zona Centro, Tijuana Baja California, 7974. Call us at 619 955 6901 for appointments.