What Is Periodontics? A Complete Guide to Gum and Bone Health
Periodontics is the dental specialty focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the gums, jawbone, and other structures that support your teeth.

The Specialty Behind Healthy Gums and Long-Lasting Smiles
Periodontics is the dental specialty focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the gums, jawbone, and other structures that support your teeth. At Advanced Periodontal Solutions, Dr. Eric Dale and the team provide advanced, personalized periodontal disease treatment for patients throughout the Denver area, from early gum inflammation to complex bone and tissue reconstruction.
Why See a Periodontist Instead of a General Dentist
General dentists focus on overall oral health, but periodontists complete additional years of specialized training in the tissues and bone that anchor your teeth. This extra training allows periodontists to manage advanced gum disease, place and restore dental implants, and perform surgical procedures that go beyond the scope of routine dental visits.
Many patients are referred to a periodontist by their general dentist when gum disease has progressed, when a tooth needs to be removed, or when bone or tissue needs to be rebuilt before implant placement.
Periodontal Treatments Offered at Advanced Periodontal Solutions
Every periodontal treatment plan is customized to the patient, but common procedures include:
- Periodontal disease treatment, including scaling and root planing to remove infection below the gumline
- Bone grafting to rebuild jawbone lost to gum disease or tooth loss
- Sinus augmentation to prepare the upper jaw for implant placement
- Soft tissue grafting to treat gum recession and protect exposed tooth roots
- Crown lengthening to expose more of the tooth for restorative or cosmetic work
- Dental implant placement for a permanent replacement of missing teeth
- Tooth extractions, including complex and surgical extractions
You can view the full list of services on our dental services page.
How Gum Health Affects Your Overall Health
Periodontal disease has been linked to a number of systemic health conditions. Research continues to explore connections between gum health and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and respiratory disease. Treating gum disease early is not just about saving teeth — it is an important part of protecting your overall health.
Signs You May Need to See a Periodontist
Consider scheduling a periodontal evaluation if you notice:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way your bite fits together
If you notice any of these symptoms, do not wait. Gum disease is easier to treat and reverse in its early stages.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your first visit will include a thorough periodontal evaluation, a review of your dental and medical history, and a conversation about your treatment options. You can learn more about the process on our new patient page, or read more about our approach to care from Dr. Dale himself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a periodontist do that a general dentist doesn't?
Periodontists receive additional specialized training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on the gums, jawbone, and supporting structures of the teeth. This allows them to treat advanced gum disease, place dental implants, and perform surgical procedures such as bone and tissue grafting.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Most periodontal procedures are performed with local anesthesia, and many patients report minimal discomfort. Dr. Dale and the team take a gentle, patient-centered approach and will discuss options to keep you comfortable throughout treatment.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Common early signs include bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum sensitivity. A periodontal evaluation is the most reliable way to determine whether gum disease is present and how advanced it may be.
Will my insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Coverage varies by plan and by procedure. Our team can help verify your benefits and discuss financing options during your visit.
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Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation in Denver, CO
If you are experiencing signs of gum disease, considering dental implants, or were referred by your dentist for a periodontal evaluation, the team at Advanced Periodontal Solutions is here to help. Request an appointment online or call our Denver office at (303) 377-9102 to get started.
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