Most people know they should visit their dentist regularly, but many are less familiar with the role of a periodontist or when they might need to see one.
A periodontist is a dentist who has completed additional years of specialist training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, as well as procedures such as gum grafting, dental implant care and the management of complex periodontal conditions.
Many patients are referred to a periodontist by their general dentist, but others choose to book directly after noticing symptoms such as bleeding gums, gum recession or loose teeth.
So, how often should you see a periodontist? The answer depends on your individual gum health, risk factors and whether you have already been diagnosed with periodontal disease.
Do you need to see a periodontist?
Not everyone requires specialist periodontal care. If your gums are healthy and you attend regular dental check-ups, your general dentist and hygienist may be able to manage your routine care.
However, some gum conditions are more complex and benefit from the expertise of a specialist.
At Pure Periodontics in the City of London, Dr Neesha Patel sees patients with a wide range of concerns, from early signs of gum disease through to advanced periodontitis and complex implant complications. As Clinical Director of Pure Periodontics and former Consultant Periodontist at King’s College Hospital, London, she understands that identifying problems early can often lead to simpler treatment and better long term outcomes.
Signs it’s time to book a periodontist
Many people assume gum disease is painful, but this is often not the case. In fact, periodontitis can develop gradually with very few obvious symptoms.
Booking an appointment with a periodontist is worth considering if you notice any of the following.
Your gums bleed regularly
Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth.
Occasional bleeding may happen if you have only recently started flossing or using interdental brushes, but persistent bleeding is often one of the earliest signs of gum disease.
Rather than ignoring it or brushing less thoroughly, it is important to understand why it is happening.
Your gums are receding
Have your teeth started to look longer than they used to?
Gum recession can occur for a number of reasons, including periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, teeth grinding and naturally thin gum tissue.
A specialist assessment can determine the cause and whether treatment is recommended to protect the teeth and improve comfort.
You’ve been told you have periodontitis
If your dentist has diagnosed periodontitis or expressed concerns about bone loss around your teeth, you may benefit from seeing a periodontist.
Specialist care focuses on controlling the disease, preventing further damage and helping patients maintain their natural teeth for as long as possible.
Your teeth feel loose
Teeth should feel stable when you bite and chew.
If one or more teeth have become mobile or seem to be moving position, this should always be investigated promptly.
Although gum disease is a common cause, other conditions can also contribute and early assessment is important.
You have persistent bad breath
Bad breath can have many causes, but bacteria associated with gum disease are often responsible.
If the problem persists despite good oral hygiene, it may indicate inflammation beneath the gum line that requires professional treatment.
You have a family history of gum disease
Research suggests that genetics can influence an individual’s susceptibility to periodontal disease.
Having a close family member with severe gum disease does not mean you will develop it yourself, but it may increase your risk.
Regular monitoring can help detect changes before significant damage occurs.
You’re planning dental implants
Healthy gums provide the foundation for successful dental implants.
If you have a history of gum disease or signs of active inflammation, a periodontal assessment before implant treatment can help reduce the risk of future complications.
How often should you see a periodontist?
There is no single answer because every patient’s needs are different.
Some people may only need one specialist consultation to confirm their diagnosis and treatment plan before returning to their general dentist for ongoing care.
Others may benefit from several appointments to stabilise active periodontal disease before entering a maintenance programme.
Patients who have previously been treated for periodontitis often attend supportive periodontal care appointments every three to six months. These regular reviews help monitor gum health, remove bacterial deposits and identify any early signs of disease recurrence.
The exact interval depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of previous gum disease
- Smoking or vaping
- Diabetes or other medical conditions
- Home oral hygiene
- Genetic risk factors
- Previous response to treatment
Rather than following a standard schedule, appointments are tailored to each patient’s individual risk profile.
What happens during a periodontal assessment?
Many patients feel nervous about seeing a specialist for the first time, often worrying they will immediately need surgery.
In reality, the first appointment is primarily about understanding what is happening and why.
A comprehensive assessment may include:
- Discussing your dental and medical history
- Examining your gums and teeth
- Measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth
- Assessing any gum recession
- Reviewing previous X-rays or taking new images if required
- Looking at areas of plaque accumulation
- Discussing any concerns or symptoms you’ve noticed
Dr Neesha Patel believes that patients should leave their appointment with a clear understanding of their diagnosis and the treatment options available. Taking the time to explain the findings is an important part of helping patients feel informed and confident about their care.
Do you always need treatment?
Not necessarily.
Sometimes a periodontal assessment provides reassurance that your gums are healthy or that your current maintenance routine is working well.
If treatment is recommended, it will depend entirely on your diagnosis.
Some patients simply require professional cleaning and improved plaque control, while others may benefit from specialist periodontal therapy, regenerative procedures or gum grafting to address more advanced concerns.
The treatment plan is always tailored to the individual rather than following a one size fits all approach.
Can your dentist refer you?
Yes.
Many patients are referred by their general dentist when specialist assessment or treatment is required.
However, you do not always need a referral to see a periodontist. If you are concerned about your gum health or would like a specialist opinion, you can usually arrange an appointment directly.
Seeking advice early often means more treatment options are available and may help prevent more complex problems from developing.
Looking after your gums between appointments
Whether you see a periodontist regularly or only occasionally, maintaining healthy gums at home remains one of the most important parts of long term periodontal care.
Simple habits can make a significant difference, including:
- Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Cleaning between the teeth every day
- Attending regular dental examinations
- Keeping hygiene and periodontal maintenance appointments
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Managing any underlying medical conditions that may affect gum health
Even after successful treatment, patients who have experienced periodontitis remain at greater risk of future disease, making ongoing maintenance especially important.
When is the right time to book?
Many people wait until their symptoms become difficult to ignore, but gum disease often progresses silently.
If your gums bleed regularly, have started to recede or you’ve noticed loose teeth or persistent bad breath, it is worth arranging an assessment sooner rather than later.
Early diagnosis allows problems to be identified before significant damage occurs and often leads to simpler, less invasive treatment.
Protecting your gums is about more than preserving your smile. Healthy gums provide the foundation for healthy teeth, successful dental implants and long term oral health. Seeing a periodontist at the right time can help ensure that foundation remains as strong as possible.