What Is A Periodontist?

When you think about dental care, you probably picture cleanings, fillings, or maybe the occasional whitening treatment. But there’s a vital part of your oral health that often goes unnoticed—your gums and the bone that supports your teeth. That’s where a periodontist in Cupertino CA and San Francisco CA comes in. We’re not just dental professionals; we’re specialists trained to manage, restore, and protect the very structures that keep your teeth in place.

Whether you’re dealing with bleeding gums, considering dental implants, or experiencing bone loss around your teeth, our periodontists bring the advanced skills and focused knowledge required to handle it. Our job is to preserve the stability of your mouth so you can maintain a functional, attractive, and pain-free smile.

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What Makes Periodontists Different from General Dentists?

While your general dentist is like your primary care doctor for your mouth, a periodontist is more like a specialist surgeon. After completing dental school, periodontists go through years of additional education centered entirely on the gums, bone, and other supporting tissues. That includes learning complex surgical procedures, bone regeneration, implant dentistry, and the management of chronic conditions like advanced periodontitis.

We don’t just clean teeth—we perform procedures that prevent tooth loss, rebuild lost support, and resolve infections before they spread. And because we’re equipped with tools and techniques most general offices don’t offer, we’re often the go-to experts when the situation requires a more advanced solution.

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Periodontal Disease: Why It Demands Specialized Attention

Gum disease isn’t always obvious. It often develops quietly—without pain—and becomes serious before most people notice it. You might see some redness, notice bad breath, or experience bleeding when brushing. These symptoms may seem minor, but they’re often signs of something more serious happening beneath the surface.

Advanced gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile—it can impact your overall health. Research continues to link chronic gum inflammation to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Periodontists are trained to identify these issues early, offer precise diagnosis, and deliver targeted treatment that stops the disease from progressing. We don’t just treat symptoms—we work to preserve the full function and health of your mouth.

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Dental Implants: More Than Just Tooth Replacement

One of the most common reasons patients visit a periodontist is to explore dental implants. Missing teeth affect more than just your appearance—they can lead to bone loss, shifting bite patterns, and even joint discomfort. As implant specialists, we handle the planning, placement, and post-care needed to ensure the implant integrates properly and lasts long-term.

At Lee Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Periodontics, we use advanced imaging, precision-guided technology, and minimally invasive techniques to help patients restore what they’ve lost—comfortably and confidently. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we’ll create a plan designed to support your long-term oral health and appearance.

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Should You See a Periodontist?

Many people think they need a referral to see a periodontist—but you don’t. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to consult a specialist:

• Gums that bleed easily or feel tender
• Persistent bad breath despite good hygiene
• Teeth that feel loose or shift unexpectedly
• A history of gum disease in your family
• Concerns about receding gums or exposed roots
• You’ve been told you’re a candidate for dental implants

You don’t have to wait for a problem to get worse. Seeing a periodontist early could save you time, money, and discomfort later on.

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Your Smile’s Stability Starts With Us

At the core of what we do is a commitment to helping you maintain a strong, healthy, and complete smile. Periodontists are specialists in stability—we protect the foundation so everything above it can thrive. Whether you need surgical intervention or a long-term prevention plan, our care is personalized, precise, and centered around your comfort.

We combine evidence-based treatment with a compassionate approach to ensure you feel confident in every decision you make. And because we understand that no two mouths are alike, we tailor every visit, procedure, and recommendation to your unique needs and goals.

Take the first step toward healthier gums and a stronger smile.

Schedule a consultation with oe of our periodontal teams in Cupertino CA and San Francisco CA and let’s talk about how we can support your long-term oral wellness—from the roots up.