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What does a periodontist do?

A periodontist is a specialised dentist who focuses on gum disease, dental implants, and underlying bone structures. A periodontist has usually undertaken an additional 3 years’ training after dental school in this area of expertise.

What can they do for me?

A periodontist is commonly needed if you suffer from any gum diseases, as these are the most common causes of tooth loss in adults. If you experience any bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, you should definitely visit a periodontist. Gum diseases often have no symptoms until teeth become loose or even hopeless, and for that reason, dental check-ups are essential regularly.

Recent research is showing a growing, important link between oral health and general health. The oral microbiome is closely linked to nitric acid production, which can affect blood pressure and wound healing, for example. Also, many studies point to links between gum disease and heart disease, strokes, and even dementia.

If you have dental implants, there are often issues with the gum and bone health around the implant (peri-implantitis). A periodontist can help to prolong the life of the implant in many cases, using lasers or other decontamination procedures. If you're looking for a periodontist in Dublin, our team can help you maintain healthy teeth, implants, and gums.

Why Choose a Periodontist in Dublin

A periodontist is typically someone you want to have accessible reasonably close to you. They will often wish to monitor your healing and health closely. For that reason, we recommend seeing one who is not too difficult to get to. If you have periodontal disease, it is something that you will have to deal with for as long as you have teeth. That means regular visits every 3-6 months, so factor that into your decision-making.

If you want to get the best periodontist in Dublin, you should consider their training and ongoing education. Do they use modern technology and lasers where appropriate? Are they versed in the latest developments in tissue regrowth? Your Dublin gum disease specialist should also work somewhere with other specialists on site. For example, a prosthodontist and periodontist will often collaborate with each other for best long-term health.

Services Offered by Dublin Periodontists

• Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Typically, this will remove stubborn tartar and plaque you are unable to remove at home. Studies show that after this professional cleaning, the oral microbiome is improved for up to 3–6 months.
• Gum grafting: This can be a way to address receding gums. Sometimes gum is taken from the palate, other times from a cadaver or synthetic source. It allows the protection of the tooth dentine and enamel for long-term health.
• Dental implants: These are commonly used for replacing missing teeth.
• Crown lengthening: Sometimes people have too much gum overlying the tooth. This can make a big difference for functional or aesthetic purposes.
• Bone grafting or regenerative procedures: These are used to restore lost bone. They can help preserve ailing teeth or implants, as well as create a good environment for placing long-term dental implants.
• Advanced technologies and techniques: Dental lasers can be a very powerful tool in dealing with gum disease and peri-implantitis. Given the microscopic size of bacteria, only lasers are capable of thoroughly disinfecting root surfaces and implants. Cone beam CT scanners are also essential to track closely bone loss and regrowth.

Choosing a periodontist Dublin

Due to the specialised nature of periodontics and the further training involved, it can often be difficult to get access to a periodontist and there may be a waiting list for consultation. If you do have a choice over who to see, check they have completed a 3-year programme in university. There is no recognition of Periodontics by the Irish Dental Council at this time.

What do I need to do to see a periodontist?

You don’t need a referral to see a periodontist. Often you will be referred by a dentist or hygienist for their assistance, however. If you do have a referral from your dentist, please make sure any X-rays and referral letters have been sent ahead of time so that they can be uploaded to our software properly.

Is there a periodontist at Seapoint Clinic?

Yes, our periodontal team can help you maintain healthy teeth, implants, and gums. You can get further details on our Meet The Team page. Visit seapointclinic.ie to learn more or book a consultation.