Periodontist Specialized in Gum Health and Dental Implants

Our Periodontist at Clínica Viena

Dr. Sebastián Otálvaro Henao – Board-Certified Periodontist Specializing in Gum Health and Dental Implants

Dr. Sebastián Otálvaro is a highly trained periodontist with advanced expertise in dental implants, soft tissue grafting, and high-precision surgical procedures for the comprehensive treatment of gum disease.

He earned his DDS from the University of Antioquia and completed his specialty in Periodontics at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia With over 10 years of clinical experience, he focuses on treating periodontitis, gum recession, tooth mobility, and performing aesthetic and functional implant placements. Dr. Otálvaro is an active member of the Colombian Association of Periodontics and the ITI Study Club, and has pursued additional training through international programs in Brazil and Chile.

His approach is based on evidence-based dentistry, minimally invasive techniques, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He is qualified to perform treatments ranging from deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to gum grafts, guided bone regeneration, aesthetic periodontal surgery, and implant placement in highly demanding aesthetic areas.

What Sets Him Apart

Certified Periodontist and Implantologist trained at the National University of Colombia, with an international clinical rotation at the University of Chile.
Active member of the Colombian Association of Periodontics and the ITI Study Club.
Specialized training in immediate implant loading and soft tissue regeneration.
Extensive clinical experience in top private practices and specialty clinics in Medellín and Bogotá.
Frequent speaker and attendee at national and international dental conferences.

His Philosophy

“Periodontal health is the foundation of every lasting smile. Treating the gums means addressing the root cause—not just the visible symptoms.”

[View Dr. Sebastián Otálvaro’s Full Profile →]

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease and bone loss around the teeth. They also place and maintain dental implants to restore function and aesthetics.

A periodontist is trained to treat conditions that affect the gums, supporting bone, and other soft tissues of the mouth. Their work goes beyond aesthetics—it ensures the structural foundation of a healthy, long-lasting smile. They are also the specialists responsible for dental implants, from planning to long-term maintenance.

Why Is Periodontics Important?

Periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis often progress silently. If left untreated, they can lead to tooth loss, bleeding gums, bad breath, bite problems, and even compromise the success of cosmetic treatments such as veneers or implants. A periodontist not only treats these conditions but also helps prevent them and preserve your oral health in the long term.

Clínica Viena – Periodontal Health with Technology and Teamwork

At Clínica Viena, our periodontists collaborate closely with prosthodontists, orthodontists, and implant specialists to provide fully integrated care. We offer detailed diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and advanced surgical techniques such as dental lasers to ensure stable, aesthetic, and long-lasting results.

Periodontal Treatments We Offer

At Clínica Viena, we approach gum health from a functional, aesthetic, and preventive perspective. Our periodontal treatments are designed to stop the progression of gum disease, preserve your natural teeth, and prepare your mouth for safe, long-lasting restorations.

Treatment for Tooth Mobility

Tooth mobility is often a sign of bone loss or advanced periodontal damage. We perform clinical and radiographic assessments to identify the cause and offer treatments such as splinting, deep cleaning, bone regeneration, or corrective surgery, depending on the severity.

Gum Contouring or Reshaping (Gingivectomy)

A surgical procedure to remove excess gum tissue or reshape the gum line in cases of gummy smiles, chronic inflammation, or hyperplasia. This improves aesthetics and makes oral hygiene easier.

Dental Implant Placement and Maintenance

Our periodontist is responsible for precisely placing implants into the upper or lower jawbone and monitoring their integration. We also prevent and treat complications like peri-implantitis to ensure long-term implant success.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

A non-surgical deep cleaning of the root surfaces to remove bacteria and plaque beneath the gums. It’s the first-line treatment for mild to moderate periodontitis.

Guided Bone Regeneration

An advanced surgical technique using biomaterials to regenerate lost bone around teeth or implants. This is recommended for areas with severe bone loss, including visible zones.

Gum or Soft Tissue Grafting

Used to cover exposed roots, increase gum thickness, or treat gum recession. This improves aesthetics, protects the roots, and reduces sensitivity.

Corrective Periodontal Surgery

Surgical procedure to access and clean deep periodontal pockets, reshape damaged bone, and treat infections that cannot be addressed with conventional scaling.

Professional Periodontal Maintenance

After active treatment, we schedule regular checkups to maintain gum health, prevent relapse, and extend the longevity of both natural teeth and dental implants.

Periodontal Treatments Comparison Table

Treatment	When It's Recommended	Benefits
Treatment for Tooth Mobility	To stabilize loose teeth due to bone loss or advanced gum disease.	Stabilizes teeth and preserves existing bone.
Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy)	To improve aesthetics in gummy smiles or remove overgrown/inflamed tissue.	Enhances smile and improves oral hygiene access.
Dental Implant Placement & Maintenance	To replace missing teeth and ensure long-term implant success.	Restores function and aesthetics with long-lasting results.
Scaling and Root Planing	As a first step to treat mild-to-moderate periodontitis.	Removes bacteria and helps prevent disease progression.
Guided Bone Regeneration	When significant bone loss is present around teeth or implants.	Rebuilds bone support for teeth and future implants.
Gum or Soft Tissue Grafting	To treat gum recession, cover exposed roots, and prevent sensitivity.	Improves gum health and appearance; reduces sensitivity.
Corrective Periodontal Surgery	To clean deep pockets or reshape bone in advanced periodontal cases.	Addresses severe cases that scaling alone can't fix.
Professional Periodontal Maintenance	To maintain results and prevent relapse after active treatment.	Extends the life of teeth and implants; prevents relapse.

Periodontal Care Process at Clínica Viena

A clinical, conservative, and personalized approach to protect what supports your smile.

At Clínica Viena, we believe healthy gums are the foundation of a functional and lasting smile. That’s why our periodontal care process focuses on accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized support every step of the way.

1. Periodontal Evaluation and Personalized Diagnosis

We begin with a detailed consultation where we assess your gums, teeth, plaque and tartar levels, tooth mobility, pocket depth, and signs of bleeding or recession. If needed, we’ll request X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate bone support and tissue condition.

2. Tailored Treatment Plan Based on Periodontal Status

Based on your diagnosis, we create a custom treatment plan that may include scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery, grafting, or regenerative procedures. We also review the prognosis of each tooth and explore dental implant options if necessary.

3. Clinical Treatment (Non-Surgical or Surgical)

We begin with a deep cleaning under local anesthesia. If deep periodontal pockets or significant bone loss are present, we proceed with periodontal surgery or guided regeneration using biomaterials. For cosmetic concerns like a gummy smile or gum recession, we offer reshaping and grafting procedures.

4. Implant Placement (If Needed)

For patients who have lost teeth due to gum disease, we plan and place implants surgically, ensuring proper gum and bone conditions. The periodontist also plays a key role in long-term implant care and maintenance.

5. Periodontal Maintenance and Long-Term Follow-Up

After active treatment, we schedule regular follow-ups to maintain periodontal stability. These include professional cleanings, tissue evaluations, plaque control, and monitoring of implants or restorations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seeing a Periodontist

What is a periodontist, and how is it different from a general dentist?

A periodontist is a licensed dentist who has completed formal specialty training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums, bone, and supporting structures of the teeth. Unlike a general dentist, a periodontist is trained to perform surgical procedures such as gum grafting, bone regeneration, and dental implant placement, and is qualified to manage advanced cases of periodontitis.

When should I see a periodontist?

Do periodontists also place dental implants?

Do I need to see a periodontist if I’ve already had a cleaning with my general dentist?

Yes—especially if your gum issues persist or have worsened. While general dentists perform routine cleanings, periodontists treat deep infections, bone loss, and structural gum damage. Their expertise is key to stopping the progression of gum disease and preserving your natural teeth long-term.

What training does a periodontist have?

After completing dental school, a periodontist undergoes at least three additional years of specialized residency training at an accredited university. This includes advanced clinical and surgical training in gum disease treatment, dental implants, tissue regeneration, and mucogingival surgery.

Where to Find Our Periodontist in Medellín

Clínica Viena is located in a central, upscale area of Medellín with easy access for both local and international patients. If you’re looking for a specialist in gum disease and dental implants, you’ll find us conveniently near medical centers, hotels, and main roads in El Poblado.

Click the map below to get personalized directions from your location or explore the easiest ways to reach us by car, public transit, or on foot.