A periodontist can help you enjoy lasting gum health and avoid long-term issues. However, many patients aren’t sure what to expect during their first visit. The initial appointment is a key step in providing effective periodontal dentistry. Here’s what you can expect when you first see a periodontist in Colorado Springs.

Initial Consultation

Your first visit with a periodontist will focus largely on getting up to speed. That includes having a detailed discussion about your dental and medical history. Your periodontist will ask about health conditions, medications, lifestyle habits, and family history of periodontal disease.

If you’re experiencing specific symptoms, you’ll discuss those with the periodontist as well. Bleeding, swollen, or red gums are common examples of periodontal symptoms. The severity of your symptoms will play a key role in determining your treatment plan.

Oral Exam

After the initial consultation, your periodontist will carry out a comprehensive oral exam. This will let them assess the health of your gums and teeth. They can use specialized tools to measure the depth of gum pockets, which is key in evaluating periodontal disease.

Other signs your periodontist will look for include inflammation, gum recession, and tooth mobility. This oral exam will provide a solid foundation from which your periodontist can plan effective treatment.

Diagnostic Tests

Your periodontist may require various diagnostic tests and imaging to take a closer look at your oral health. Technology such as X-rays and 3D scans can help detect hidden infections, evaluate bone density, and gauge the extent of gum disease progression. As many as 42 percent of U.S. patients have gum disease.

Depending on your specific case, you may require other tests. Bacterial analysis is a common example. Based on the results of your imaging and tests, your periodontist can accurately evaluate your oral health and identify the root cause of your symptoms.

Treatment Planning

Based on the results of your consultation and oral exam, your periodontist can start to develop your treatment plan. They’ll lay out the current state of your oral health and the severity of any potential issues. A variety of treatment options are available to tackle your specific needs.

For early stage gum disease, scaling and root planing (also called deep cleaning) can be highly effective. However, if you have more advanced gum disease, your periodontist may recommend more invasive treatment options, such as periodontal surgery.

Follow-Up Care

Your periodontist will also provide guidance to help you protect your oral health. This personalized advice can cover topics such as proper brushing and flossing, specialized products, and lifestyle changes. Tackling these areas can make a major difference in your gum health.

The first appointment can also involve scheduling future appointments, whether you require specific procedures or routine visits. Regular check-ups and cleanings are essential to protect your smile from gum disease and other oral health concerns.

Get Proactive About Your Gum Health

Are you concerned about gum disease and other potential oral health issues? The team at Pinnacle Dentistry provides a full range of periodontal care options, including prevention and treatment. Schedule an appointment today to take action on periodontal disease and safeguard your smile.