Should I see a dentist or periodontist for gum disease?

For most people, a dentist is the right first call. They can spot gum disease early, treat mild cases and refer you to a specialist if the problem calls for more. You don't have to figure this out on your own. 

What you'll learn in this article:  

• Early gum disease can often be reversed with cleanings and better home care, without a specialist visit.  

• A periodontist focuses on the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place and gets three extra years of training beyond dental school. 

• Certain warning signs, like gum recession or loose teeth, mean you need an evaluation soon. 

• Your dental provider is the right starting point; they'll refer you to a periodontist if the situation calls for it. 
  

If you're unsure where to start, schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider for a personalized evaluation.  

What's the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?  

These are two different stages of gum disease, and the stage you're in shapes who you need to see. 

Gingivitis: the early, reversible stage  

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist.¹ At this stage, a general dentist can handle your care. 

Periodontitis: when gum disease goes deeper  

If gingivitis goes untreated, it can become periodontitis. MedlinePlus says the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that get infected.¹ The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says this more serious stage involves bone loss around the teeth. It can be slowed and managed with professional treatment, but it cannot be reversed.² 

What does a periodontist do?  

A periodontist is a dental specialist focused on the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) says periodontists receive three extra years of education beyond dental school.³ That deeper training makes them the right fit for complex or advanced gum disease cases. 

General dentists often refer patients to periodontists when cases become more challenging. But if your gum disease is caught early, a general dentist can manage simple periodontal treatment. 

Warning signs that mean you shouldn't wait  

Some signs mean it's time to get checked out soon. Talk with your provider if you notice:  

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss  

• Gums that look red or swollen or feel tender  

• Gum recession (your teeth look longer than they used to)  

• Teeth that feel loose or have shifted  

• Persistent bad breath that doesn't go away  

Monitoring your oral health and catching these early gives you more options.  

Should you start with a dentist or go straight to a periodontist?  

Start with your dentist. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says more severe forms of gum disease can be managed by a dental provider, who may refer you to a periodontist when needed.² 

If you’re noticing changes in your gums, start by talking with your dental provider. They can evaluate your gum health, explain what treatment may help and refer you to a periodontist if specialist care is needed. 

Dentist or periodontist for gum disease: which one do you need? FAQs 

Here are a few more questions that come up often. 

Can gum disease come back after treatment?  

Yes. Even after successful treatment, gum disease can return without consistent home care and regular cleanings. Good oral hygiene and regular care from a dental provider are key to keeping it managed. 

What is a deep cleaning, and is it different from a regular cleaning? 

Yes, it differs from a regular cleaning. A deep cleaning, called scaling and root planing, goes further than a standard cleaning. A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the visible surfaces of your teeth and just below the gumline. A deep cleaning goes beneath the gumline to remove buildup from the root surfaces and smooth them out so gum tissue can reattach. It's one of the most common treatments for periodontitis and is often done in stages, a few teeth at a time.  

Is gum disease linked to other health problems?  

Research is ongoing, but gum disease has been studied alongside conditions like heart disease and diabetes. If you have concerns, your provider can help you understand what the current evidence means for your care.  

Sources 

¹ National Institutes of Health: MedlinePlus. “Gum Disease.” https://medlineplus.gov/gumdisease.html 
² Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Division of Oral Health. “About Periodontal (Gum) Disease.” https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/gum-periodontal-disease.html 
³ American Academy of Periodontology: “What is a Periodontist?” https://www.perio.org/for-patients/what-is-a-periodontist/