Periodontist

Periodontist

A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school.

Education and Training

Periodontists must complete a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of dental school, and then three additional years of specialized training in periodontology. This specialized training includes study in anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiology, microbiology, histology, pharmacology, and surgical procedures.

Role and Responsibilities

Periodontists often treat more problematic periodontal cases, such as those with severe gum disease or a complex medical history. They offer a wide range of treatments, such as scaling and root planing (in which the infected surface of the root is cleaned) or root surface debridement (in which damaged tissue is removed). They can also treat patients with severe gum problems using a range of surgical procedures. In addition, periodontists are specially trained in the placement, maintenance, and repair of dental implants.

See Also

• Dentistry
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery
• Endodontics
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics

External Links

• American Academy of Periodontology

Periodontist Resources
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