How to Choose the Right Dentist for Periodontics Treatment

Education and skills

General dentists complete a four-year undergraduate program and then dental school. Dentists who provide periodontics are qualified to perform essential gum-related procedures and surgeries and use lasers such as PerioLase to perform treatments.

Type of treatment

Another factor that may guide a patient’s decision when choosing a dentist for periodontics is the type of treatment they need. Most offices offer similar treatments, but some may specialize in certain periodontal procedures such as dental implants, cosmetic periodontal procedures, LANAP or preventative care.

The nature and severity of gum disease will determine the type of periodontics treatment. For that, the patient will need to visit the dentist for a consultation, which often includes a thorough examination to ascertain their condition. Patients should ask about the services and methods of treatment provided by the dentist.

Ask for recommendation

Friends and family can be an excellent place to start when searching for suggestions. Individuals can also ask their coworkers. Previous patients of the dentist have firsthand experience and can give the person an idea of what to expect during the treatment. They are also more likely to know about financing and insurance coverage.

Office facilities

Besides ensuring that the dentist is proficient and able to handle the patient’s treatment goals, the office must be comfortable for the patient. This includes a relaxing environment and staff who are pleasant and make the patient feel confident that they are getting the best care tailored to their specific needs.

Treatment philosophy

Every dentist who provides periodontics treatment will have a somewhat different ideology regarding treatment. Some may tend toward recommending surgical procedures to treat the problem quickly, while others may focus on non-surgical solutions and lifestyle adjustments to gradually solve the issue. Both approaches are effective, but patients need to know and feel confident in the dentist’s treatment methods.

Questions to ask

During the consultation with the dentist, patients can ask questions to know if they are a good fit for their health needs. These include:

1. How long have they been practicing?
2. Are they up to date with new techniques and treatments?
3. What type of dental technology do they use (PerioLase, traditional methods, etc.)?

In summary

Any cosmetic dentist who is trained in periodontics treatment is qualified to provide the care you need to maintain your oral health. Ensure that you trust the dentist you choose and that they fully understand your concerns about your health and treatment goals, which is that you want to have healthy teeth that also look aesthetically pleasing.