Basically, a periodontist is a dental practitioner who specializes in the placement of dental implants and also performs cosmetic oral plastic surgical procedures. Plus, he has the required educational background to prevent, diagnose and treat periodontal diseases both surgical and non-surgical approaches. If you have a periodontal concern that is beyond the scope of a general dentist, it is best to see a competent periodontist in Houston for proper evaluation and treatment of your problem.
Actually, all general dentists have the education and training to treat early stages of periodontal or gum diseases. However, in order to effectively handle advanced forms of the disease, they need to have additional knowledge and skills thus the need for more training. Nowadays, periodontist, general dentists and other experts in the field often come together as part of a team to diagnose and treat periodontal and other dental-related illnesses.
So when should you see a periodontist?
If you are dealing with any symptom of a gum disease, you should see one. However, it is important to take note that regular examination of the gum area should be part of everyone’s dental hygiene regimen. In general, those with diabetes, heart or respiratory disease, as well as those with osteoporosis, and individuals who regularly smoke should regularly visit a periodontist since these health conditions are commonly associated with periodontal diseases. Given that the proper treatment of the disease largely hinges on its cause, accurate diagnosis is crucial.
If there’s a need for you to see a periodontist, start looking for one from your dentist by asking for a referral. However, you should also know what to look for to ensure that you choose one that is competent and skilled in his profession. Among others, consider the length of time he has been in practice. As much as possible, he should also take on some continuing education or recertification courses in recent years. Ask about what treatment plan he has for your condition. Are there other options available? If there are any, what are the pros and cons of each option?
Specifically ask if the periodontist has already performed the same procedure that you’ll be needing. If he did, ask if he encountered any problem. You should also ask about his emergency plans and the cost of the procedure and whether or not he accepts your dental insurance. If not, inquire if there are payment options that he offers that you can avail. Aside from his knowledge and expertise, you should also make sure that you are comfortable with him. Is he pleasant and professional? Can you easily reach him? In the end, you have to find a periodontist that is not only skilled and experienced in his field but also one that you will be comfortable with.
Concerned that you may have a gum disease? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS at Houston Dental Implants Oral Surgery & Periodontics today to learn about periodontal disease and its treatment.
Actually, all general dentists have the education and training to treat early stages of periodontal or gum diseases. However, in order to effectively handle advanced forms of the disease, they need to have additional knowledge and skills thus the need for more training. Nowadays, periodontist, general dentists and other experts in the field often come together as part of a team to diagnose and treat periodontal and other dental-related illnesses.
So when should you see a periodontist?
If you are dealing with any symptom of a gum disease, you should see one. However, it is important to take note that regular examination of the gum area should be part of everyone’s dental hygiene regimen. In general, those with diabetes, heart or respiratory disease, as well as those with osteoporosis, and individuals who regularly smoke should regularly visit a periodontist since these health conditions are commonly associated with periodontal diseases. Given that the proper treatment of the disease largely hinges on its cause, accurate diagnosis is crucial.
If there’s a need for you to see a periodontist, start looking for one from your dentist by asking for a referral. However, you should also know what to look for to ensure that you choose one that is competent and skilled in his profession. Among others, consider the length of time he has been in practice. As much as possible, he should also take on some continuing education or recertification courses in recent years. Ask about what treatment plan he has for your condition. Are there other options available? If there are any, what are the pros and cons of each option?
Specifically ask if the periodontist has already performed the same procedure that you’ll be needing. If he did, ask if he encountered any problem. You should also ask about his emergency plans and the cost of the procedure and whether or not he accepts your dental insurance. If not, inquire if there are payment options that he offers that you can avail. Aside from his knowledge and expertise, you should also make sure that you are comfortable with him. Is he pleasant and professional? Can you easily reach him? In the end, you have to find a periodontist that is not only skilled and experienced in his field but also one that you will be comfortable with.
Concerned that you may have a gum disease? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS at Houston Dental Implants Oral Surgery & Periodontics today to learn about periodontal disease and its treatment.