Did you know that the American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes 12 different dental specialties? If you include general dentists, that makes a total of 13 different types of oral health doctors! One popular specialty is periodontics. What do periodontists do, and how do they differ from general dentists? This blog post explains some key points.
What They Do
A general dentist has a broad scope of practice. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of oral health conditions, and they provide many services, such as fillings, crowns, cosmetic services, and more.
A periodontist, on the other hand, focuses primarily on the health of the gum tissue and underlying jawbone. They are experts at treating gum disease and offer advanced procedures that you may not find in a general dentist’s office.
Training and Education
A general dentist must complete an undergraduate degree before moving on to dental school, which usually takes an additional 4 years to complete. After graduation, they need to keep up with continuing education requirements in their state in order to maintain a valid license.
A periodontist also has to complete dental school. Thereafter, they complete a 2 – 3 year residency program that helps them gain greater knowledge of how to address gum disease and related conditions. Afterward, they too are required to keep up with continuing education.
When to See a Dentist vs. a Periodontist
A general dentist may be the best person to visit if:
- You are looking to maintain your oral health through basic services, such as exams and routine cleanings.
- You have an oral health problem that requires a diagnosis.
- You have cavities or other common oral health concerns that require treatment.
On the other hand, it may be best to see a periodontist if:
- You have been diagnosed with advanced gum disease.
- You have a particularly challenging type of gum disease, such as chronic periodontitis or aggressive periodontist.
- You require a gum graft or bone graft to restore lost oral tissues.
- You wish to receive dental implants to replace lost teeth.
There is sometimes a bit of overlap between the services provided by general dentists and periodontists. It would be wise to research the qualifications and experience of doctors in your area so you can make a wise decision about whom to choose for your care.
General dentists and periodontists can both be important for achieving a healthy smile! Consider your unique circumstances when deciding which type of doctor to visit.
Meet the Periodontist
Dr. Zachary Carnow is a board-certified periodontist in Frisco, TX. He provides dental implants and a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments for gum disease. He enjoys putting his extensive training and expertise to work for our community. If you believe you could benefit from his services, contact our office at 214-619-4990.