i
Loading Page
loading, please wait

Filters

FILTERS

Clear All Filters

RATING

NEW PATIENTS

GENDER

CONDITIONS / TREATMENTS

Search for Conditions/Treatments...

PRACTICE AFFILIATIONS

Search for Practice Affiliations...

SPECIALTIES

SORT BY

Periodontists - Potomac, MD

We found 126 periodontists near Potomac, MD. See refinement options below.

Sort By
  • Default
  • Relevance
  • Patient Rating
  • Rating Count
  • Distance

Related searches

You can further refine your search:

tissue transfer (1) , oral surgery (1) , oral surgical splint (1) , skin surgery (1) , incision and drainage (1) , abscess drainage (1) , ct scan (1) , excision (1) , bone surgery (1) , minor procedures (1) , facial surgery (1) , debridement (removal of unhealthy tissue) (1) , x-rays (1) , reconstructive surgery (1)

Other Providers in Potomac, MD

Acupuncturists Child Psychologists Dentists Emergency Physicians General Dentists Holistic Doctors & Alternative Medicine Doctors Massage Therapists Mental Health Professionals Orthopedic Surgeons Pediatric Physical Therapists Plastic Surgeons Spine Surgeons Sports Medicine Doctors Surgeons Surgical Oncologists

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics is a dental specialty that provides care for gums and the bone that surrounds teeth. Periodontists treat gum disease, place dental implants, and treat wounds or inflammation inside the mouth.

The most common condition managed by periodontists is gum disease. Gum disease happens when plaque and bacteria build up on teeth and reach below the gumline, causing inflammation and damaging gum tissue. The body's own immune response to gum infection may also grow severe enough to damage gums and teeth. Mild gum disease (or gingivitis) may not have any symptoms. However, if the infection is allowed to build, symptoms such as pain, bleeding, bad breath, and tooth loss may occur. Dentists can usually diagnose and treat mild gum disease. In severe cases or those with medical complications, a periodontist is more appropriate for managing the infection.

A partial list of the treatments and procedures that a periodontist may perform includes:

  • Root scaling and planing, or cleaning the lower surface of the tooth
  • Debridement, or removal of diseased gum tissue
  • Laser treatments to remove plaque and gum tissue
  • Surgery, including gum grafting or bone grafting
  • Placement of dental implants, including single teeth, crowns, and bridges
  • Maintenance and removal of dental implants

When gum infection threatens your oral health, a periodontist works to heal your gums and save your teeth.