What is a periodontist Periodontics
A periodontist is a dentist who has completed three additional years of accredited residency in periodontics. Periodontists diagnose and treat gum disease, perform gum and bone surgery, place dental implants and treat infections around implants. Periodontics has been an ADA-recognized specialty since 1947.
Periodontist or general dentist?
| General dentist | Periodontist | |
|---|---|---|
| Training after dental school | None required | Three-year accredited residency |
| Focus | Teeth: fillings, crowns, cleanings | Gums, bone and implants |
| Gum disease | Early disease, cleanings | Moderate to advanced disease, surgery, laser, regeneration |
| Implants | Some place them; most restore them | Surgical placement, grafting, complications |
When should you see a periodontist?
- Gums that bleed for more than two weeks.
- Pocket readings of 5 mm or more.
- Receding gums or sensitive roots.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
- Planning a dental implant, or problems around one.
- Diabetes, heart disease or pregnancy with gum symptoms.
Find a periodontist in Florida or near you.
How is a periodontist trained?
After four years of dental school, a periodontics resident spends three years in a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Residents treat patients, perform surgery and implants under faculty, and complete research. Many earn a master's degree. Florida has two programs: the University of Florida and Nova Southeastern University. Training and schools.
Questions
Do I need a referral to see a periodontist?
Most periodontists accept patients without a referral. Some insurance plans require one; check the plan.
Is a periodontist a surgeon?
Periodontists are dental specialists trained in surgery of the gums and bone and in implant placement.
Sources
Periodontics Read next
ResearchThe newest research comes first.
History of periodonticsPeriodontics grew from Pierre Fauchard's 1728 description of gum disease, through John Riggs's 19th-century therapy and the founding of the American Academy of Periodontology in 1914, to the science of the late 20th century: plaque as …
Modern periodontal techniquesModern periodontics rebuilds as well as removes disease.
Periodontists and dental implantsPeriodontists place dental implants and manage the bone and gum that hold them.Training and schoolsPeriodontists train in three-year residencies accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.Board certificationA board-certified periodontist is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology (ABP).