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Periodontics treats gum disease. Learn to identify symptoms, what to expect from treatment, and when to see a specialist in Cali.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is the dental specialty that studies and treats diseases of the periodontium — the set of tissues that support the teeth: gums, periodontal ligament, root cementum, and alveolar bone. A periodontist is a specialist in this area.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults worldwide. However, when detected early, it is completely controllable.
Types of Periodontal Disease
- Gingivitis: Gum inflammation caused by bacterial plaque buildup. Gums bleed, are swollen and red. Completely reversible with treatment
- Mild-to-moderate periodontitis: Infection advances below the gum line. Periodontal pockets of 4–6 mm appear. Incipient bone loss occurs
- Severe periodontitis: Deep pockets of 6+ mm, significant bone loss, and tooth mobility. Requires more intensive treatment
Symptoms You Should Know
Don't ignore these signs:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing — the most common first symptom
- Swollen, red, or receding gums (teeth that "appear longer")
- Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing
- Tooth sensitivity to cold or heat in the cervical area
- Tooth mobility — a sign of advanced bone loss
- Pus between tooth and gum
When Do You Need a Periodontist?
Consult a periodontist at Dental Care Norte if:
- You have any of the above symptoms
- Your general dentist detected periodontal pockets at your check-up
- You have diabetes, which increases the risk of periodontitis
- You smoke — tobacco masks symptoms and worsens disease
- You haven't had a professional cleaning in over a year
Available Periodontal Treatments
- Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning with ultrasound below the gum line
- Periodontal curettage: Removal of infected tissue under anesthesia
- Periodontal surgery: For advanced cases with significant bone loss
- Periodontal maintenance: Check-ups every 3–6 months post-treatment
The Connection Between Gums and General Health
Periodontitis has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, pregnancy complications, and difficulty controlling blood sugar in diabetics. Caring for your gums means caring for your overall health.
Book your periodontal evaluation at Dental Care Norte, CC Chipichape, Cali — it's free.