Have you ever been recommended to see a periodontist?
Sometimes dental terms and titles can be confusing. You may wonder what is the difference between a dentist vs periodontist.
Simply put, a periodontist is a type of dentist, but not all dentists are periodontists.
Let’s take a closer look at what is a periodontist vs a dentist and who you need to see.
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease (periodontal disease) and dental implant placement. They are experts in treating oral inflammation.
Differences Between a Dentist and a Periodontist
Dentists take care of patients’ teeth, gums, and oral health care. Periodontists are dental specialists, with expertise in periodontal disease and oral inflammation.
Here are the key differences between a periodontist and a dentist:
- Dentists typically deal with mouth injuries, tooth decay, gums, and supporting bones. Periodontists deal with more complex and severe cases that require a specialist.
- Periodontists require training for advanced surgical techniques and procedures.
- Dental offices may have in-house periodontists, but not all do.
- Both require an undergraduate degree, a four-year dental program, and a dental license. However, a periodontist also has three years of post-doctoral training in their specialty. They must also secure an additional license for their field.
Dentist vs Periodontist
Ultimately, the biggest difference between a dentist and a periodontist is the level of expertise. Dentists will often recommend patients to a specialist, like a periodontist, when their case is too extensive or complex for the general dentist to effectively handle.
Periodontists are specialists in diagnosing and treating gum disease. If you’re dealing with gum disease or inflammation, you may require a periodontist to maintain your oral health.
For an experienced Periodontist in Quincy, look no further than Advanced Dental Arts. At our dental clinic, you can count on comprehensive dental care, including gum disease treatment. Don’t suffer from inflamed or bleeding gums any longer. Schedule your appointment with our Periodontist in Quincy today!