How Is Periodontal Care Different from General Dentistry?
At Brentwood Dental Center, we believe every healthy smile starts with a strong foundation. While general dentistry focuses on overall oral health, periodontal care targets the gums, bone, and supporting structures that hold your teeth in place. Understanding the difference helps patients take proactive steps to protect both their smiles and long-term health.
If you’ve noticed gum bleeding, swelling, or loose teeth, our team is here to help. We combine patient education, gentle care, and modern technology to restore confidence and comfort at every stage of treatment.
This Article Will Address
- How periodontal care differs from general dentistry
- The main purpose of periodontal treatment
- Conditions periodontists treat
- Procedures unique to periodontal care
- How periodontal care can help save natural teeth
- When to see a periodontist instead of a general dentist
- The connection between gum health and overall health
- Why choose Brentwood Dental Center for advanced dental care
Ready for a Healthy Smile?
Your trusted Brentwood dentist.
What Is the Main Purpose of Periodontal Treatment?
The main goal of periodontal treatment is to control infection, protect natural teeth, and restore the health of the gums and bone that support them. Gum disease begins when bacteria accumulate beneath the gumline, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. If untreated, it can cause tooth loss and even affect overall health.
At Brentwood Dental Center, Dr. Shelby Nelson and our team provide both preventive and corrective care options such as:
- Scaling and root planing to remove bacteria below the gumline
- Antibacterial therapy to reduce infection
- Tissue regeneration to encourage healthy bone growth
Our personalized approach focuses on early detection, helping patients prevent gum problems before they become serious.
What Conditions Do Periodontists Treat?
Periodontists are dental specialists who treat diseases and conditions affecting the gums and supporting bone. At Brentwood Dental Center, we collaborate with periodontal specialists when advanced care is needed. Common conditions include:
- Gingivitis and Periodontitis – inflammation or infection of the gums caused by bacterial buildup
- Gum Recession – pulling back of gum tissue that exposes tooth roots
- Bone Loss – deterioration of bone structure supporting the teeth
- Peri-Implantitis – infection or inflammation around dental implants
- Loose or Shifting Teeth – resulting from advanced gum disease
General dentists diagnose and manage early-stage gum issues, while periodontists focus on advanced treatment, maintenance, and regeneration. Our practice emphasizes regular cleanings, thorough exams, and patient education to prevent these problems from progressing.
What Procedures Are Unique to Periodontal Care?
While general dentists perform cleanings, fillings, and preventive treatments, periodontists perform specialized procedures to restore the tissues that anchor your teeth. Some of these advanced treatments include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to eliminate harmful bacteria beneath the gumline.
- Gum Grafting: Restores lost gum tissue and protects exposed tooth roots.
- Crown Lengthening: Reshapes gum and bone tissue to improve appearance or prepare for restorations.
- Bone Grafting: Strengthens jawbone structure and prepares the mouth for implants.
- Implant Placement and Maintenance: Provides stable, natural-looking tooth replacement solutions.
Dr. Nelson’s focus on modern technology ensures that patients receive precise, comfortable, and effective treatment. This comprehensive approach allows for seamless coordination between general and specialized care within our dental office.
Can Periodontal Care Help Save My Teeth?
Yes. Periodontal care can often save natural teeth that might otherwise be lost to gum disease. By addressing infection early and maintaining gum health, patients can prevent tooth loss and preserve bone support for decades to come.
Our philosophy centers on education and prevention. We teach patients how to maintain oral hygiene at home and schedule ongoing maintenance visits for lasting protection.
With early intervention and personalized treatment plans, many patients are able to keep their natural teeth for life, avoiding the need for extractions or dentures.
How Is Periodontal Care Connected to Overall Health?
Scientific research has established strong links between gum health and systemic health conditions. Inflammation in the gums can contribute to issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness. Maintaining periodontal health reduces these risks and supports overall wellness.
At Brentwood Dental Center, we take a proactive approach to care, educating patients about how oral bacteria and inflammation affect the rest of the body. This awareness encourages healthier daily habits and long-term preventive care.
Why Choose Brentwood Dental Center for Periodontal and General Care?
Patients choose Brentwood Dental Center because we offer a balance of advanced technology, compassionate service, and professional expertise.
- Led by Dr. Shelby Nelson, a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Provides both general and periodontal care for convenience and continuity
- Uses modern diagnostic tools and materials for accuracy and comfort
- Welcomes patients from Brentwood, Franklin, and the greater Williamson County area
Our team strives to make every visit informative and stress-free, so patients leave feeling empowered and confident in their care.
Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation in Brentwood, TN
General dentistry keeps your smile healthy, but periodontal care protects its foundation. If you’ve noticed gum sensitivity, bleeding, or early signs of gum disease, now is the best time to act.
Call Brentwood Dental Center or schedule online to book your periodontal care today. Serving patients across Brentwood, TN, and nearby communities, Dr. Shelby Nelson and her team are ready to help you achieve lasting oral health.
Sources
Dr. Shelby Nelson
Dr. Shelby Nelson, DMD, is a general and cosmetic dentist in Brentwood, TN, dedicated to helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles with minimally invasive care. She is an active member of the Tennessee State Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the Spear Institute. Passionate about patient education, Dr. Nelson ensures individuals feel informed and comfortable throughout their dental care journey, always considering overall health and function in her treatment plans.