If you’ve ever wondered what a periodontist does, you're not alone. Most people visit the dentist regularly, but far fewer understand the specialized world of periodontics.
Periodontists—like the experienced professionals at Council Oak Perio—are the experts who step in when gum disease, bone loss, or complex dental issues require advanced care.
In this complete, reader-friendly guide, you’ll discover how these specialists protect your gum health, restore functionality, and enhance your smile.
A periodontist is a dental professional who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease, as well as performing advanced procedures like gum surgery and dental implants. Think of them as “architects of oral stability,” ensuring the foundations of your teeth remain strong.
After dental school, periodontists undergo 3 additional years of intensive training in gum biology, inflammation, surgical techniques, and bone regeneration. This advanced education equips them to treat complex issues that general dentists may refer out.
Periodontists routinely treat:
Your gums serve as the foundation that anchors your teeth in place. Without strong gum tissue, teeth eventually loosen—much like a tree with weak soil support.
Inflammation in the mouth doesn’t stay in the mouth. Research shows strong connections between gum disease and:
Healthy gums are essential for whole-body well-being.
Neglecting gum care can lead to:
The earliest stage of gum disease. Reversible, but only with timely care.
When gingivitis progresses, bacteria attack deeper tissues and bone. Treatment becomes urgent.
At this stage, bone loss and tooth mobility may require regenerative surgery or implants.
This involves thoroughly mapping your gum health—one tooth at a time.
Deep pockets around teeth signify hidden bacterial infection. Specialists measure these areas with precision tools.
CBCT scans provide a full view of bone density, infection, and implant suitability.
Council Oak Perio is highly trusted for these advanced cleaning treatments...
Removes hardened plaque from above and below the gumline.
Smooths tooth roots so the gums can reattach naturally.
Laser techniques promote healing, reduce bacteria, and minimize discomfort.
The gums are gently lifted to clean infection hiding deep beneath the surface.
Special membranes, grafts, or advanced biologics help regrow lost tissue.
Shrinking deep pockets prevents future bacterial invasion.
Recession exposes roots and leads to sensitivity. Grafting covers and protects the area.
A small section of your tissue is used to rebuild lost gum structure.
Used to increase gum thickness and prevent further recession.
Periodontists excel at placing stable, natural-looking implants.
Bone grafting ensures strong support for long-term implant stability.
This is gum disease around implants—requiring specialized treatment.
Corrects short or “hidden” teeth by reshaping the gumline.
Creates a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Perfect for patients seeking confidence-boosting improvements.
People with diabetes face higher gum disease risks—periodontists play a vital management role.
Heart patients benefit from reduced gum inflammation and infection control.
Managing gum disease helps lower whole-body inflammation.
Strong gums and bone ensure cosmetic restorations last.
Healthy gums provide the perfect foundation for smile improvements.
Specialists prevent complications that undermine restorative dental work.
Local or systemic antibiotics help treat stubborn infections.
These rinses support healing between dental visits.
Small packets of medicine are placed directly into deep pockets.
At Council Oak Perio, early detection is a cornerstone of patient care…
Using advanced imaging and precise measurements, issues are caught before symptoms worsen.
Routine periodontal checkups, lifestyle guidance, and early intervention protect your long-term oral health.
Patients with gum disease often require advanced cleanings more frequently.
This schedule stops bacteria from causing reinfection.
Regular evaluations ensure stable oral health.
Reduce discomfort, shorten healing, and increase precision.
Provides 3D views of bone, roots, and sinus structures.
Ensures accuracy for surgeries and implant placement.
Some children show signs earlier—early treatment is vital.
Specialists diagnose and manage these unique conditions.
Education and tailored care build lifelong oral health habits.
These habits dramatically increase gum disease risk.
Nutrition and consistent brushing make a world of difference.
High stress weakens your body’s ability to fight infection.
Periodontists work closely with cosmetic and restorative providers.
Advanced techniques rebuild tissue and restore structural integrity.
A comprehensive approach ensures lasting results.
These require immediate care to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Abscesses can be painful and dangerous if untreated.
Urgent intervention protects your teeth from further damage.
Dentists refer when issues go beyond routine care.
Early intervention preserves natural teeth and reduces treatment complexity.
If you're seeking advanced gum or implant care, Council Oak Perio provides unmatched expertise for you. Located at 2152 Village Park Ave #100, Twin Falls, ID 83301, our practice is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
Led by Dr. Christopher Bingham, a board-certified periodontist with 20 years of experience, our team helps you with complex issues like gum disease, bone loss, gum recession, gummy smiles, dental implants, and broken or missing teeth.
Whether you’re struggling to chew, worried about bone loss, or confused about treatment options, Council Oak Perio guides you with compassion, clarity, and world-class periodontal expertise. Call us now.
Now that you know what a periodontist does, it's clear that these specialists play an essential role in maintaining gum health, restoring oral function, and enhancing smiles. From treating early gum disease to performing advanced surgeries, periodontists are the guardians of the structures that support your teeth.
If you're experiencing gum issues, dental implant needs, or cosmetic concerns—don’t wait. Expert help, like that offered by Council Oak Perio, ensures you receive comprehensive, compassionate, and advanced periodontal care.
No—most periodontists accept patients directly, though many come from dentist referrals.
Modern techniques, sedation options, and lasers greatly minimize discomfort.
Most patients heal within 2–4 weeks, depending on the graft type.
We offer specialized training, advanced technology, complex case expertise, and decades of periodontal experience.
