What is a periodontist?
A periodontist focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum (periodontal) disease and on the gums and bone that support your teeth. While a general dentist handles routine care, a periodontist manages more advanced gum problems and procedures.
Signs you may need to see a periodontist
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Red, swollen or tender gums.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste.
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer.
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite.
Ignoring these signs allows gum disease to progress, so early treatment is important.
What are the stages of gum disease?
- Gingivitis — the early, reversible stage with red, bleeding gums.
- Periodontitis — infection spreads below the gumline, damaging bone.
- Advanced periodontitis — significant bone loss and loose teeth.
The earlier gum disease is treated, the easier it is to control and reverse.
How is gum disease treated?
- Scaling and root planing — deep cleaning below the gumline.
- Laser gum therapy — targets infection with minimal discomfort.
- Maintenance cleanings — to keep gums healthy long-term.
- Gum surgery — in advanced cases, to restore gum and bone health.
Why choose Illume for gum care in Chennai
At Illume Advanced Dentistry in Nungambakkam, Dr. Jerry Joe and team treat gum disease with gentle, modern techniques including laser periodontal therapy — helping patients across T. Nagar, Kodambakkam and Kilpauk keep their gums and teeth healthy for life.
Periodontist vs general dentist: what is the difference?
A general dentist looks after your overall oral health, including check-ups, fillings and routine teeth cleaning, and treats early gum problems. A periodontist is a dentist with extra training in diseases of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. You are usually referred when gum disease is advanced, keeps coming back or is not responding to routine care.
Who is at higher risk of gum disease?
- People who smoke or use tobacco.
- People with diabetes, where gum problems can be harder to control.
- Anyone with heavy plaque or tartar build-up.
- People with a family history of gum disease.
- Those who skip regular check-ups and cleanings.
What happens at a gum assessment
The dentist measures the small gaps, called pockets, between your teeth and gums, checks for bleeding and looseness, and usually takes X-rays to see the bone level. Based on this you are told whether you need a deep cleaning of the root surfaces, regular monitoring or further treatment, and how often you should return. Ordinary tartar removal is explained in our guide to teeth scaling cost in Chennai.
Protecting your gums after treatment
- Brush twice a day with a soft brush and clean between your teeth every day.
- Attend the review visits your dentist recommends, which are often more frequent than the usual six months.
- Stop smoking if you smoke; it slows healing and raises the risk of relapse.
- Report bleeding, swelling or loose teeth early rather than waiting.
See someone about your gums
If your gums bleed, feel sore or are receding, do not wait for it to become painful. You can contact our Nungambakkam clinic or book an appointment for an assessment.
Frequently asked questions
What does a periodontist do?
A periodontist prevents, diagnoses and treats gum disease and the bone and gums that support your teeth, using deep cleaning, laser therapy and gum procedures.
Can gum disease be cured?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible with treatment and good hygiene. Advanced periodontitis can be controlled but needs ongoing care.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
No. Deep cleaning and laser therapy are done with comfort in mind, often with local anaesthesia, and any soreness settles quickly.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Brush twice daily, floss, and get professional cleanings every 6 months. Quitting tobacco also greatly reduces your risk.
What happens if gum disease is left untreated?
Untreated gum disease can lead to receding gums, bone loss, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
Gentle, modern gum disease treatment. Call +91 9600909202 or book online.
Periodontist in Chennai: when a general dentist is not enough
A periodontist is a dentist who specialises in the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. Most people with early gum problems can be managed by a general dentist, but deeper pockets, loose teeth or gum recession may need specialist care.
Warning signs include gums that bleed when you brush, persistent bad breath, receding gums and teeth that feel loose. Illume offers gum disease treatment and preventive care; if your case needs a specialist, we will tell you honestly and explain why.
Early treatment is usually simpler, so do not wait for pain; gum disease is often painless until it is advanced.
Can I see a periodontist without a referral?
Often yes. Ask the clinic when you book.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum inflammation can be reversed with good cleaning and home care. Advanced disease can be controlled but not fully reversed.