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What is the difference between a dentist and a periodontist? Question

A general dentist provides routine cleanings, fillings, crowns and bridges. A periodontist is a dentist with three more years of training after dental school who focuses on the gums and bone that support the teeth. Periodontists treat gum disease, recession and bone loss, often with surgery or specialized deep cleanings.

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What to know

  • General dentists may treat milder gum disease.
  • Periodontists treat moderate to advanced cases and place implants.
  • The AAP recommends that your dentist and periodontist plan your care together.

Sources

  1. Cleveland Clinic: What Is a Periodontist?
  2. AAP: Patient FAQs
  3. Cleveland Clinic: Gum Disease Treatment

Reviewed by , Director of IT and Medical Compliance: 25 years in dentistry, medicine and HIPAA compliance. Updated . Checked against the sources listed. General information, not medical advice.

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How periodontists work with general dentistsPeriodontists and general dentists share care.How to choose a periodontistChoose a periodontist on five things: board certification by the American Board of Periodontology, the range of treatments offered (deep cleaning, LANAP, grafting, implants), results shown and measured, reviews from patients, and how …What does a periodontist do?A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease, and in placing dental implants.How long does it take to become a periodontist?A periodontist completes four years of dental school and then three more years of specialty training in periodontics.Is a periodontist the same as an oral surgeon?No. A periodontist specializes in the gums and the jawbone that supports the teeth.Do I need a periodontist?You may need a periodontist if you have moderate or severe gum disease, with bleeding, swollen or receding gums, loose teeth, bite changes or pain.