Periodontist in Belmont, MA

When Should You See a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist with additional specialty training in preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease and in dental implant placement. Some gum concerns can be managed by a general dentist, while more complex conditions may benefit from evaluation by a periodontal specialist.

You may be referred to a Belmont periodontist if you have signs of advanced gum disease, significant gum recession, changes to the bone supporting your teeth, or periodontal concerns that require specialized treatment.

Persistent Gum Disease

Bleeding, swollen, tender, or receding gums can be signs of periodontal disease. As gum disease progresses, it can affect the tissues and bone that support the teeth.

Gum Recession

When gum tissue pulls away from a tooth, more of the tooth or root may become exposed. A periodontist can evaluate the extent of the recession and determine whether monitoring, nonsurgical care, or a periodontal procedure may be appropriate.

Loose Teeth or Bone Loss

Periodontitis can damage the structures that keep teeth stable. If teeth become loose or dental imaging shows changes in supporting bone, a periodontal evaluation can help determine the appropriate next steps.

Periodontal Treatments Based on Your Gum Health

Periodontal treatment is not the same for every patient. Your care depends on the condition of your gums, periodontal pocket depths, bone support, previous treatment, and other oral health factors.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical deep-cleaning treatment used for certain cases of periodontal disease. Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline, and the root surfaces are cleaned to help manage bacteria and inflammation.

Periodontal Maintenance

Patients who have undergone treatment for gum disease may need periodontal maintenance rather than routine dental cleanings alone. These visits allow the dental team to clean areas that are difficult to reach at home and monitor periodontal health over time.

Surgical Periodontal Care

When advanced periodontal problems cannot be managed adequately with nonsurgical treatment, procedures such as pocket reduction, bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, or regenerative treatment may be considered depending on the diagnosis.

What Happens During a Periodontal Evaluation?

A periodontal evaluation looks beyond the visible surface of the gums to assess the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.

Gum and Periodontal Pocket Examination

Your periodontist may examine the gums for inflammation and recession and measure the spaces between the teeth and gums with a periodontal probe. These measurements help evaluate the health of the gum tissue.

Dental and Medical History Review

Certain health conditions, medications, and other factors can influence periodontal care. Your periodontist will review relevant dental and medical history before recommending treatment.

Dental Imaging When Needed

X-rays may be used to evaluate the bone beneath the gumline and identify changes that are not visible during a clinical examination. Gentle Dental Belmont uses all-digital X-rays as part of its dental technology.