What and who is a periodontist? What do periodontists do, and why would you need them? What’s the difference between a general dentist and a periodontist?
These might be some of the questions that may be roaming around in your head about periodontists. Therefore, we decided to answer all these questions through this blog.
If one wants to become a dentist in the United States of America, one will first have to go through college and then get accepted into a dental school. After four years of intense training and written and practical examinations, one graduates. Next, they have to give their licensing exam, which earns them the right to practice general dentistry.
Dentistry has a lot of sub-specialties, and one of the specialties includes Periodontics and Implantology. If a dentist wishes to expand their skills and practice a particular dental specialty, they have to get accepted into a residency program that runs for three years. In these three years, one is trained in the specific specialty they have chosen, which provides them the skills to practice the entire scope of that particular specialty.
To become a periodontist, like Dr. Sanz at Southern Delaware Dental Specialists, one has to enter into residency for periodontology and implantology. This gives them the skills to diagnose and treat all the diseases specific to the gums. They also learn about oral plastic surgery, which can effectively treat conditions like loose teeth and receding gums. They are trained in smile design. They are also trained to recognize all the signs of systemic illnesses that affect the oral cavity. In this way, periodontists can also help with the early diagnosis of systemic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, viral infections, and the rest.
Implantology forms a core part of periodontology, and periodontists are specifically trained in implant placement, bone grafting, sinus augmentation procedures, and the rest.
So, if you would like to consult a gum specialist, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanz at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants today. If you have any more questions, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to assist to a better oral health.
