| What Is A Periodontist? |
|
Periodontists are specialty dentists. They are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases. They are also trained in the surgical placement of dental implants and in cosmetic and oral plastic surgery procedures.
Periodontal disease has been linked to diabetes, osteoporosis, tobacco smoke, and general malnutriion. If you have any of those conditions, it's advisable that you schedule a constulation with a Periodontist for an exam.
They are required to complete a four year college degree. They will then need to complete an accredited dental school, acquiring a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Medical Dentistry). Periodontist's are then required to participate in a ADA accredited periodontology residency program.
|
|
|
| How Can I Find A Qualified Periodontist? |
|
Referrals and recommendations are usually reliable resources for finding a quality Periodontist. Speak with your family dentist - he or she should be able to recommend a reliable Periodontist.
It's always good idea to try to find patient testimonials when considering a Periodontist. Most will have a website, and they should have a small compilation of patient testimonials. You should review those testimonials, as well as try to find "unbiased" testimonials that can only be found through third party websites.
|
|
|
| What Questions Should I Ask The Periodontist During My Appointment? |
|
These are some of the questions you should ask your Periodontist as well as some things you should take into consideration during your initial appointment.
- How many years has he or she been in practice?
- What kind of equipment does his or her practice use/provide?
- What kind of pain relief options does the Periodontist provide?
- If you already know what type of procedures you need, be very specific and ask the Periodontist what the total cost will be, and how long it will take you to recover from the procedures.
- You need to take note of his or her bedside manner - does he make you feel comfortable asking any question? Does he answer your questions thoroughly or seem annoyed at your questions?
- What types of advanced training and certification has the Periodontist undergone?
|
|
|
