A periodontist has undergone 3 years of specialist training in the diagnosis and management of gum disease, as well as advanced training in treatments such as gum grafting and periodontal regenerative surgery. Your dentist may have referred you for the management of early, moderate and advanced gum disease.

Dentists, dental hygienists and oral health therapists are skilled at management of routine periodontal problems and early gum disease. However, if you have been recommended to see a periodontist, this usually indicates that the treatment required is outside the scope of your dentist.

If you have been referred to a periodontist, the level and detail of treatment required much more significant than a general examination and clean. When you see your dentist for a check up and clean, staining and tartar are removed from above the gumline, which takes a relatively short amount of time. At the periodontist, tartar and plaque are removed from deep pockets above and below the gum line, which is a time consuming and detailed process that often takes several hours, and requires specialised instruments as well as expertise in the management of periodontal disease.

Local anaesthetic is commonly used to ensure treatment is as comfortable as possible. Sedation options can be discussed if anxiety or sensitivity is a concern.

Treatment is often completed over several visits, working through different areas of the mouth based on disease extent.

Gum disease is a chronic condition. It requires excellent oral hygiene, avoiding risk factors such as smoking, and ongoing preventative maintenance treatment to prevent recurrence after treatment. It can usually be controlled well long term with the right preventative strategies.