What is a Periodontist?
Periodontology is one of 12 specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA.) Each respective specialty requires an additional 2-3 years of extensive education at the university level after four years of dental school. Dental experts who specialize in periodontology are called Periodontists.
The word “perio-” means “around”, and “-dont” refers to teeth. Thus, periodontology includes the study of the tissues and structures immediately surrounding the roots of teeth. When the bone and gum tissues (gingiva) around a tooth become compromised — and thus put the tooth at risk — a periodontist is the preferred dental specialist who is best equipped to help you manage the condition.
A periodontist is a licensed dentist whose practice focuses on treating conditions like gum disease, bone loss, and tooth mobility. They also place dental implants. Some of their routine services include therapies like gum surgeries, deep cleanings, periodontal maintenance, laser therapies, and grafting.
Being that periodontal diseases can extend far out of reach of what your general dentist or hygienist is able to access, periodontists have additional resources to treat parts of your mouth that go beyond that of routine and preventative dentistry.
Some people contact periodontists directly because they’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, or they want to get dental implants. In other situations, your general dentist may refer you to a periodontist if you haven’t responded to traditional cleanings to manage your periodontal condition.
Periodontists are able to provide specialized care to help treat and retain teeth. Their offices are typically equipped with technology that may not be accessible within a traditional family dental practice.
Once you see a periodontist, you may be able to alternate visits between your specialist and your general dental practitioner.