How to Choose a Periodontist

Many people find out about the field of periodontology when they are told by their regular dentist that they should schedule an appointment with a periodontist. While there are several ways in which dentists and periodontist frisco texas are similar, there are some important differences. Like a general dentist, a periodontist must complete an undergraduate degree as well as dental school; however, to become a licensed periodontist requires that an individual also completes a residency program that typically lasts between 30-36 months and is focused on understanding the cause and treatment of gum disease, and other issues and aspects of the periodontium (supporting structures of the teeth).

If your dentist has recommended that you seek periodontal care, it is because you have developed an issue related to your periodontium, which can best be addressed by a specialist. Periodontists can perform a variety of procedures, ranging from preventative to cosmetic to surgical. For more severe cases of gum disease that have resulted in loss of teeth, periodontists may perform dental implants, full mouth reconstruction, and/or bone grafts, whereas in less severe cases, a periodontist may perform milder procedures, such as periodontal maintenance or scale and root planing to halt or reverse the effects of gum disease. Oftentimes, general dentists and periodontists work in partnership to develop a comprehensive care plan that is individualized to a patient’s unique oral health care needs.

How Do I Choose a Periodontist?

Most general dentists have a periodontist or several periodontists with whom they have a working relationship. Because most people trust their general dentists, they often choose their periodontist based on this referral. Although many people are satisfied with their dentist’s recommendation, it is important to do your research and make sure you are working with a periodontist who is right for your particular needs. This can include a range of factors, such as personality type, payment options offered by clinics, and specialized fields of care.

For patients who have not been referred to a periodontist, by their dentist, it may be helpful to ask family or friends for recommendations. Coworkers can also be an invaluable resource, as they are likely to know financing options and whether or not your dental insurance coverage is accepted.

If you are not able to find a recommendation from someone you know or work with, your next best option is to conduct a web search for periodontists in your area. Be sure to include your zip code and/or city/state in your search, as doing so will narrow the search results. Once you have located periodontal clinics in your area, you can research their websites, which should provide an overview of what treatment options are available, insurance and financing options, organizational values, contact information and more.

Regardless of what periodontist you decide to work with, it is important that they are committed to working with your general dentist to ensure that you receive broader and more informed care that is tailored to your unique needs.

What Type of Periodontal Treatment Do You Need?

Another factor that may influence your decision of which periodontist to use is what type of periodontal treatment you require. Most periodontal clinics will offer the same types of treatments, however some clinics may specialize in certain periodontal procedures, such as dental implants, while another may specialize more in cosmetic periodontal procedures or preventative care.

What type of periodontal treatment is necessary for you will be determined by the nature and severity of your periodontal disease. To determine this, a thorough examination will be performed, which will involve the use of a specialized tool to measure the pocket depth of your gums. Gums that are healthy will have a pocket depth of 4mm or less, whereas pockets that are deeper than 4mm generally indicate that periodontal disease is present.

Patients who have experienced gum loss may have a gum graft or Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure performed, whereas patients who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease may have a dental implant or implants placed. Certain clinics may also offer certain type of implant treatments that others do not, such as All-on-4 dental implants or Teeth-in-A-Day.

For less severe cases of periodontal disease, improved at-home care and scheduling more frequent periodontal maintenance may be sufficient to correct the issue and prevent similar issues from developing in the future. Or it may be necessary to schedule milder treatment options, such as gum grafting or Pinhole Surgical Technique. Which type of periodontal treatment or treatment options is right for you will vary from patient to patient and be determined by your unique needs, but it is important that you feel confident that your periodontist understands your unique needs and does a good job explaining what treatment options are available and best suited to you.

Payment Policies

Cost, insurance, and financing are also significant factors to consider when deciding which periodontist is right for you. Periodontists who are more established and have a solid client base may be more expensive then a newer clinic; however, this established reputation may outweigh having to pay more to receive treatment and care.

Treatment costs will vary based on a number of factors, including the severity of the patient’s case, what type of procedures are performed, what diagnostic tests are required, whether or not the patient has insurance, and if they do, what type of insurance plan they have. Additional factors include the number of visits required to correct the issue, type of materials used (where applicable), and what type of dental sedation (if any) is used.

Most periodontal treatments are covered (partially or in full) by dental plans, however it is important to discuss anticipated costs and coverage with your provider and/or periodontist prior to having procedures performed so you know what to expect.

If cost of treatment is of significant concern, many clinics do offer financing options which allow patients to pay for treatment costs over a period of time. When deciding on a periodontist, it is essential to have a clear understanding of their financial policies.

Additional Questions to Consider

If you are having a tough time deciding which periodontist is right for you, it is important to review their qualifications, reputation, and payment policies. Additional questions you may consider when deciding whether or not a periodontist is the best fit for your needs include:

• How long have they been providing services?
• What type of procedures do they provide or specialize in?
• Are they taking continuing education courses?
• Are they board-certified?
• Is the location and operating hours of the clinic convenient for you?
• What is their treatment philosophy? Are they more inclined to recommend surgical intervention or focus on non-surgical or preventative measures?
• Are they certified to administer IV sedation?
• What type of dental technology do they use?
• Does their personality make you feel confident and/or comfortable?
• Is their staff professional and accommodating?
• Is the clinic a stand-alone practice or part of a dental group?
• What type of emergency care support do they provide?

Fortunately, anyone who has taken the time to complete the rigorous training involved in becoming a periodontist is almost certainly proficient in providing you with the care you need to maintain your oral health. All the same, it is important that you not only receive the care you need, but that you have absolute trust in the capability of your periodontist and feel they have a clear understanding of your unique oral health concerns and goals.

More About Periodontists : First Visit to A Periodontist