When most people think about oral health, they picture shiny teeth, whitening strips, and the occasional dental cleaning… but what about the gums that hold everything in place? This is where the field of periodontics steps in.
Periodontics focuses on gum health, advanced treatments, and the deeper structures that keep your smile strong. And when it comes to expert gum care, specialists like the team at Council Oak Perio lead the way with precision, experience, and compassion.
Periodontics is the dental specialty dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases that affect the gums and supporting bone structures. Think of your gums and jawbone as the “foundation” of a house—without a strong base, everything built on top becomes unstable.
A periodontist is a dentist who has completed additional years of advanced training focused on gum disease, periodontal surgery, and dental implants. They are the architects and engineers behind the scenes, ensuring that your oral foundation remains strong and functional.
General dentists handle routine cleanings, fillings, and preventive care. Periodontists take over when gum disease becomes complex or when surgical expertise—such as gum grafting or implant placement—is required.
Your gums are more than soft tissue—they anchor your teeth, protect the roots, and support your chewing ability. Healthy gums are the unsung heroes of a beautiful smile.
Noticing something unusual? Look for warning signs like:
These subtle clues often point to early gum disease.
Left untreated, gum problems can lead to bone loss, tooth shifting, infections, and eventually… tooth loss. Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it can influence your overall health.
Gingivitis is reversible when addressed early. It typically involves mild gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup.
When gingivitis progresses, it becomes periodontitis—a serious condition where gums pull away from teeth, forming deep pockets that harbor bacteria.
Recession exposes the roots of your teeth, leading to sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and increased risk of decay.
A detailed examination helps your periodontist understand your gum health. This may include assessments of inflammation, tissue firmness, and bone levels.
A small measuring tool called a periodontal probe is gently inserted between your tooth and gum to check “pocket depth.” Deeper pockets usually indicate gum disease.
Digital X-rays help visualize the jawbone, revealing areas weakened by disease.
This treatment removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the roots to help gums reattach.
Medicated gels and mouth rinses help eliminate lingering bacteria and reduce infection.
Laser-assisted therapy targets diseased tissue with precision, reducing discomfort and speeding healing.
When deep pockets are inaccessible with basic cleaning, flap surgery provides access to remove bacteria and tartar.
If gum disease has destroyed bone, grafts help rebuild lost tissue and create a stable foundation.
Gum grafts restore receding gumlines—both for health and aesthetics.
With advanced knowledge of bone and gums, periodontists are uniquely qualified to place implants correctly and safely.
Just like planting a tree in weak soil… an implant cannot thrive without strong bone and healthy tissue.
Periodontists treat peri-implantitis—gum disease affecting implants—to prevent complications.
Consistent brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use are your first line of defense.
Professional cleanings remove tartar that brushing simply can’t reach.
Smoking and certain medical conditions increase gum disease risk dramatically.
Skipping daily brushing? Plaque hardens into tartar and infects gums.
If gum disease runs in your family, you may be predisposed.
Health conditions and hormone fluctuations can weaken your immune response.
Inflammation in the gums can travel through the bloodstream, contributing to heart conditions.
Gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control—and diabetes increases gum disease severity.
Ongoing studies continue to link gum disease to chronic conditions, emphasizing the importance of treatment.
For “gummy smiles,” periodontists reshape gum tissue to reveal more tooth structure.
This treatment creates a symmetrical gumline that enhances facial aesthetics.
Grafting procedures restore lost gum tissue for a healthier, fuller smile.
These visits involve deep cleanings, pocket measurements, and ongoing monitoring.
Most patients need visits every 3–4 months to prevent recurrence.
Routine cleanings focus on surface cleaning. Periodontal maintenance targets deeper areas.
Laser tools offer precision while minimizing bleeding and discomfort.
Digital imaging helps periodontists plan surgeries and implant placement with unmatched accuracy.
These advanced materials help rebuild lost tissue and support natural healing.
Children aren’t immune to gum problems—early care ensures lifelong oral wellness.
Bleeding gums, swelling, and persistent bad breath may indicate trouble.
Healthy habits established early help prevent future periodontal disease.
Leafy greens, crunchy vegetables, and dairy products strengthen gums and teeth.
Vitamin C, D, calcium, and antioxidants are essential.
Sugary snacks, alcohol, and poor hydration can negatively affect gum tissue.
These are early warning signs calling for specialist help.
Mobility or recession often indicates advanced gum disease.
General dentists often refer patients to periodontists for specialized treatment—especially trusted experts like Council Oak Perio.
Addressing periodontal challenges with expertise and compassion.
Are you struggling to chew, dealing with missing teeth, gum disease, or bone loss? Maybe you’ve noticed gum recession or feel embarrassed by a gummy smile? These issues can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face them alone.
At Council Oak Perio, board-certified periodontist Dr. Christopher Bingham brings 20 years of advanced experience treating complex periodontal and implant cases. Whether you need gum disease treatment, bone regeneration, dental implants, or cosmetic gum procedures, you’re in expert hands.
Location:
2152 Village Park Ave #100, Twin Falls, ID 83301, United States
Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Friday–Sunday: Closed
Council Oak Perio is committed to helping you regain comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health. Your solution begins with a single call.
Understanding what periodontics is helps you appreciate the vital role your gums play in overall health. From preventing gum disease to reconstructing bone and performing implant surgery, periodontists protect the foundation of your smile.
With expert care from specialists like Council Oak Perio, you can overcome periodontal challenges and enjoy a healthier, stronger smile for years to come.
A periodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating gum disease, performing gum-related surgeries, and placing dental implants.
Regular cleanings address the tooth surface above the gumline. Periodontal therapy cleans deep below the gumline and targets infection.
Most treatments are performed with local anesthesia or comfort techniques. Many patients describe the process as surprisingly comfortable.
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can be controlled but requires lifelong maintenance.
