If you are already at this blog, chances are that you have searched something in the line of who is a periodontist or “signs to see a periodontist”. Or maybe something similar.

This may be due to several reasons. The American Dental Association claims that over 50% of Americans above 30 years of age suffer from some sort of chronic periodontitis.

This means there is a very high chance that you actually need to see one. In this blog we are going to go through 6 signs to see a periodontist, so let’s get started right away.

Periodontist vs. Dentist, Who Does What?

As you already know, a dentist is a professional doctor for teeth. They are the ones who do tooth extractions and carry out your dental check ups. Dentists are there to help you keep your oral health in line and provide the necessary treatments for your teeth whenever necessary. 

A periodontist is a dentist too. The difference is that a periodontist such Dr. Maryam Horiyat has taken the extra mile and has undergone a certain advanced training after their dental school to specifically treat your gums.

So if your dentist comes across your gum issues, they will be referring to a periodontist to advance your treatment. A periodontist is basically a dentist with gum speciality in their arsenal.

When To See a Periodontist?

Now that we have discovered the difference between a dentist and a periodontist, let’s get to the important part: 6 signs to see a periodontist!

#1: Bleeding Gums When Brushing

The number one sign to see a periodontist is bleeding gums. Bleeding while brushing or flossing is known to be one of the early signs of gingivitis (a.k.a gum disease). Unfortunately this is not even it! You may get bleeding gums for unexplained reasons. This is definitely a sign of even more severe periodontal disease and is one of the major signs of seeing a periodontist.

#2: Red, Swollen or Tender Gums

The same bacteria that can lead to gingivitis can be a cause of inflammation. These inflammations can and will create deep pockets around the teeth. These in turn will raise the risk of more severe conditions including tooth loss. That is why you should take this sign very seriously and visit a professional periodontist such as Dr. Maryam Horiyat immediately!

#3 Hot / Cold Tooth Sensitivity

If your teeth are feeling more sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, it could be a sign of advanced gum disease. This happens because of a receding gum line, which leaves the roots exposed. Sensitivity can also be caused by enamel erosion—another serious issue to keep an eye on. In any case, if your teeth react strongly to temperature changes, it’s time to seek dental care to prevent further damage.

#4 Loose Teeth (for Adults)

Once you’ve shed your baby teeth, your adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime. However, periodontitis can cause deep pockets around the teeth, making them feel loose. You might also notice that your teeth are shifting. If chewing feels different, your bite changes, or you spot new gaps between your teeth, don’t wait—schedule a visit by clicking here! Loose teeth can signal bone loss, and catching it early is key to effective treatment.

#5 Chronic Bad Breath (Halitosis)  

We’ve all experienced bad breath after indulging in garlic or onions, but if your bad breath sticks around despite good oral hygiene, it could be more than just food. Chronic bad breath might be a sign of a periodontal infection. If mouthwash and brushing aren’t solving the issue, it’s time to get it checked out by a professional.

#6 Gum Recession  

Noticing that your teeth are starting to look longer? This could be due to receding gums, which is a common sign of advanced periodontal disease. Gum recession can lead to serious problems, such as exposed roots or even tooth loss. If you spot this symptom, it’s crucial to seek treatment before it progresses further.

Conclusion

In conclusion, taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. If you notice any of these signs—bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, chronic bad breath, or sensitivity to hot and cold—it’s time to visit a periodontist. 

Ignoring these symptoms could lead to more severe conditions down the road, but with the right care, you can protect your smile and maintain your oral health. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse—schedule an appointment with an experienced periodontist like Dr. Maryam Horiyat today!