Why Choose a Board Certified Periodontist? Marlton NJ In today's modern dental practices there are many specialties to help maintain a patient's oral health. All of them have different focuses and areas of expertise. Cosmetic dentists focus on the outward appearance of the patient's smile and the overall aesthetic appearance of their teeth. A general dentist focuses on the preventative side of dentistry trying to maintain gum and teeth health. And a periodontist specializes in treating periodontal disease. While some patients may be confused about which type of dentist they need to see for their needs, they should come to our office where we can help them find the right type of doctor they need. At Periodontal Health Professionals,we are here and always available to help. Is a Periodontist Different Than a Regular Dentist?To know why or when to choose a board certified periodontist, you first need to understand the difference between a general dentist and a periodontist. A general practice dentist is someone who is involved in preventative care. General dentists are usually who most people go to see when they need their teeth professionally cleaned every six months. Their focus is on the overall health of the mouth including the teeth, gums, and jaw. They would be the ones to investigate general complaints of jaw, tooth, and gum pain. This type of dentist can fill cavities, place crowns, and root canals. The important distinction between a general dentist and the other specialists is they are most concerned with the preservation and preventative care of the teeth and gums, over how they appear. General dentists want to stop tooth decay and gum disease, while some other dental specialists also focus on aesthetics. Periodontists are also required to go through the same education and training that general dentists do, plus additional education and training regimens. While periodontists can perform the same surgical procedures and offer preventative care as well, their main focus is on treating and diagnosing patients with periodontal disease. They look for receding gums, bone loss along with the jawbone, and will monitor those patients with gum disease as they go through the treatment protocols. Periodontists can also perform bone grafts, planing, root scaling, socket grafts, periodontal maintenance procedures, and cosmetic periodontal procedures. A general dentist is trained to meet the overall health care needs by prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mild oral diseases and conditions. However, a periodontist is specially trained at dealing with issues that affect the soft tissues of your mouth and can even tackle a variety of oral surgery treatments. Education and Credentialing RequirementsA periodontist has to receive the same initial education as a general dentist. This means attending dental school that usually lasts approximately four years and passing a certification exam or boards. What Does It Mean to be a Board Certified Periodontist?Being a board certified periodontist signifies that a dentist has undergone rigorous additional training and examination in the field of periodontics, which focuses on the treatment of gum diseases and the placement of dental implants. To achieve this prestigious certification, a periodontist must first complete their dental education, followed by a three-year accredited periodontal residency program. Afterward, they must pass the American Board of Periodontology's comprehensive examination, demonstrating their advanced knowledge and skills in diagnosing and treating periodontal issues. Board certification represents a commitment to excellence and a dedication to providing the highest level of care in periodontics, reassuring our Marlton, NJ area patients that they are receiving treatment from a highly qualified and specialized practitioner. Expertise in Periodontal CareDuring the residency, our periodontists learn and perform a variety of skills under the supervision of experienced periodontal professionals. They are then required to obtain additional certifications to begin working as a periodontist. Advanced Treatment OptionsIf you are considering getting dental implants, then you may benefit from first consulting with a board certified periodontist, especially if you are dealing with advanced gum disease or if you have another difficult or complex gum health issue. Moderate to advanced gum disease is one of the biggest reasons you should consult with a periodontist when considering dental implants. If you have noticed loose teeth or persistent bad breath, then you should call us immediately as you may have gum disease that has already spread deep beneath your gum line. Commitment to ExcellenceThe extensive training they receive in periodontics ensures periodontists are capable of providing you with the very best treatment. Frequently Asked QuestionsIs a Periodontist Right for You?Periodontists specialize in gum disease. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, then you need the services of a skilled periodontist like Dr. Childers at Periodontal Health Professionals. What are 3 conditions that a periodontist may treat?While a periodontist can perform all tasks that a general dentist can, such as placing fillings or crowns, they are capable of performing procedures that target your gums as well. The primary responsibility of a periodontist is the treatment and prevention of gum disease, but they have many other skills as well. Periodontists are also able to provide you with dental implants and complete regenerative procedures such as a gingivectomy. What is the significance of achieving board certification status in the dental specialties?Achieving board certification status in a dental specialty is a significant accomplishment and represents a high level of expertise, commitment to excellence, and dedication to ongoing professional development. Board certification is a voluntary process that goes beyond the basic requirements for licensure as a dentist. It involves meeting additional educational and experiential standards set by a specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association. Exploring Your Treatment OptionsThere is no one better at diagnosing, treating, and educating you on gum health issues than a periodontist. Consulting with a gum specialist means that you know you will be receiving the best possible care and advice, so that your gums will stay healthy for years to come. Treating Gum Disease in NJIf you feel you may have gum disease or would like to be examined for the disease or are in need of any other periodontal care, please contact us at Periodontal Health Professionals. We are here for you and will provide you with the answers you need to make an educated decision about your care. Contact us by phone at (856) 702-4340 to either schedule an appointment or discuss your situation. Set your mind at ease and give us a call to find out more or to schedule your office visit. |
