What is a gum specialist? Frankly, there is only one professional that can answer to that call: A periodontist. (Forgive me if you are a skilled oral surgeon)
These dentists have additional, specialized training in gum health and gum disease. They are exceptional in this field because it is also what they practice on a daily basis.
A periodontist can often save teeth that ‘general’ dentists say have to be pulled. However, the consumer has to be on his guard because there is big money in placing implants and even periodontists are not immune to the lure of this type of procedure.
If you are told that you need a tooth pulled, be sure to get several opionions. The right periodontist, if you can find her, can often save your teeth.
Hard cases will most likely require surgery. The periodontist has a number of techniques at her disposal to replace lost bone tissue. Therefore, do not give in to the idea of getting your teeth pulled unless you are sure that there is no hope.
Personally, based on what I know, I’m certain that in most cases you can find a periodontist who will help you if you look hard enough. This is, after all, their specialty.
It is best not to lose your natural teeth. Implants have a fairly high failure rate. You often have to wait 6 months or longer before they can ‘try’ again. The jaw will begin to lose bone mass when it does not have a tooth to support. It is a vicious cycle that you should avoid at all costs.
Please remember my words: Get several opinions before letting anyone pull your teeth. Dentures and implants are not perfect solutions. Your natural teeth are best suited for your mouth and body.
David Snape is the author of What You Should Know about Gum Disease
Disclaimer: This post is for information only. It does not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have or think you might have a health problem of any kind, visit a doctor or dentist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. I am not a dental professional.
Tags: gum specialist, gum specialists, oral surgeon, periodontist, save your teeth
Is teeth bleaching effective? does it have any harmful effect later on?
Hi I have an implant and it’s not a recipe for success – it seems to have a low grade bone infecton so may cause more problems than it solved…
Hi James,
Implants can be problematic and there is a danger of implant failure in the beginning. This would mean waiting for many months before the ‘second’ attempt.
The consumer needs to be aware of these problems. Thanks for sharing your situation with us. Please keep me posted1
Teeth whitening is not always benign. In some cases the bleaching agent can actually kill the pulp in the tooth. Teenagers and young adults could be at the highest risk for this to happen.
You should avoid teeth whitening if possible. Some must have it due to their own or other’s perceptions.
Caucasian are supposed to have slightly yellow teeth. Some African Americans naturally have ivory white teeth. But yellow teeth are actually normal. The bleached look is in vogue right now, but maybe one day people will realize it is not so necessary to have
bleached white teeth.
Whitening agents may also be harmful to your gum tissue, You should be careful when considering any whitening agent.
And proceed with caution if at all!
It apparently runs in my family. We all take care of our teeth but everyone in my family has been diagnosed with it. Most of them were way older then me when they were diagnosed.
@david
Thanks for the info about tooth coloring. I never tried to bleach my teeth and I don’t use whitening toothpaste, but I do take good care of them. I always wondered why they were yellow given that I brush them often. I guess they’re just supposed to be that way.
I never knew bleaching your teeth can actually be dangerous…
Okay, this post was enlightening and scary at the same time. I had many cosmetic dental procedures in the past and my surgeon NEVER warned me against these risks. I’m definitely going to have a lot of questions for my next visit!