Can a dentist help my periodontitis?

Question

I have periodontal disease. I've never gone to a dentist because my family has never had dental insurance, along with the usual feelings of fear and embarrassment.

My gums have receded and I've tried to keep the disease from getting worse by brushing all the time and using Listerine. I called a periodontist's office, but he's booked until June. I'm scared to wait that long.

The lady told me to go to a dentist, but I know that my problem is more so for a periodontist and not a regular dentist. I know I will probably have to have root planning and scaling.

Will going to a dentist be even worth it? I'm scared to wait any longer, but I need to go to a periodontist, but all of them in my area seem to be booked up for at least a few months.

I know it's not at the beginning. I guess it's moderate to severe. My teeth don't seem loose or anything like that, but I'm still scared out of my mind, especially since I can't seem to get to a periodontist soon.

Answer 1

seek out a dental clinic in your area. some hospitals have them. or u can go to a dental college. they go by what u can afford, u may be able to pay nothing. a periodontist would help. to keep from losing your teeth, everyday take vitamin c and calcium w/ vit. d. luck to u.

Answer 2

I would go to the dentist. She will be able to diagnose anything or refer you to specialtist. My husband has stage 1 periodontitis. His hygenist did the root planning and scaling. If he doesn't improve, then he will be refered to the periodontist. A dentist would be able to see which stage u are at and customize a program for you. Good luck!

Answer 3

Td,

OFTEN TIMES FOR A COMPLEX CASE THERE IS A COMBINATION OF TREATMENTS. THE REGULAR DENTIST MAY DO THE SCALING AND ROOT PLANING AND SEE HOW THIS CASE IMPROVES.
THE REFERRAL TO THE PERIODONTIST MAY HAPPEN AFTERWARD WHEN SURGERY OF THE GUMS/BONE IS REQUIRED.
OFTEN TIMES ONCE A LEVEL OF HEALTH ATTAINED, THERE MAY BE A ALTERNATING VISIT TO EACH DENTIST.