The Periodontist
Your dentist is your first port of call for almost everything to do with your teeth and gums – but for certain, more specialised gum and bone problems, we may recommend seeing a periodontist alongside your regular care.
Q: What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who has completed additional years of specialist training focused specifically on the gums and the structures that support your teeth – the bone, connective tissue and ligaments. They are experts in preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease, and in procedures involving the gums and jawbone, including more advanced or complex cases.
Q: When would I be referred to a periodontist?
We generally refer patients to a periodontist when gum disease has progressed beyond what can be managed with routine hygiene visits, when a case is particularly complex, or for specific procedures such as gum grafting, treatment of receding gums, or placement of dental implants. A referral isn't a sign that something has gone wrong – it simply means getting you access to a specialist skill set for a particular part of your treatment.
Q: What kind of treatments do periodontists provide?
Periodontists commonly treat:
• Moderate to advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
• Gum recession, including gum grafting to cover exposed roots
• Dental implant placement
• Regeneration of bone and gum tissue lost to disease
• Cosmetic gum procedures, such as reshaping an uneven gum line
Q: Will I still see my regular dentist?
Yes – a periodontist typically works alongside your dentist rather than instead of them. We'll continue to look after your general dental care, routine check-ups and everyday treatment, while the periodontist focuses on the specific gum or bone treatment you've been referred for. We stay in contact with the periodontist throughout, so your care stays properly coordinated.