What Is Periodontics and Why Gum Health Matters for Your Smile

 When you think of a healthy smile, the first thing that comes to mind is usually bright, white teeth. But behind every beautiful smile is a foundation that often goes unnoticed—your gums. Without healthy gums and supporting bone, teeth cannot stay strong or last a lifetime. This is where periodontics plays a vital role.


What Is Periodontics?


Periodontics is a dental specialty dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease, while also offering expertise in dental implant placement. A periodontist is a dentist who has advanced training in caring for the gums, bone, and connective tissues that support your teeth. They are also skilled in performing cosmetic gum procedures, such as gum grafting or reshaping, to enhance both health and appearance.


Why Gum Health Matters

Gums do more than just hold your teeth in place—they protect the roots, provide stability, and act as a barrier against harmful bacteria. If gum health is neglected, it can lead to serious concerns, including:


1. Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, often marked by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums.



2. Periodontitis: A more advanced form of gum disease where bone and tissue damage can occur, potentially leading to tooth loss.



3. Receding Gums: Exposed tooth roots that can cause sensitivity and affect your smile’s appearance.



But gum health goes beyond your mouth. Research has shown strong links between gum disease and systemic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and even complications during pregnancy.Looking after your gums doesn’t just protect your smile—it supports your whole-body health.


How Periodontics Can Help


A periodontist can provide a wide range of treatments depending on your needs, such as:


1.Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline.



2. Gum grafting to restore receding gums.



3. Regenerative procedures to rebuild lost bone and tissue.



4. Dental implant placement to replace missing teeth securely and naturally.



5. Specialized cosmetic periodontal treatments that boost both the beauty and confidence of your smile.


Protecting Your Smile for the Future


The key to strong, healthy gums is a mix of daily care and professional support. By brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can keep gum problems from sneaking up.  For patients with signs of gum disease, seeing a periodontist can make all the difference in saving teeth and restoring oral health.

At Perio PDX, we provide advanced periodontal care and implant dentistry to restore and protect a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.

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