Choosing a periodontist near you is an important part of your dental health. These specialists are highly trained in diagnosing and treating gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.When searching for a periodontist near me, it is important to look at the level of experience. How long has the practice been in business? The more experienced a specialist is, the more likely they are to have perfected their services and procedures over time.

They also perform a variety of cosmetic surgeries such as reducing or extending the gum line, using gum graft surgery to cover exposed roots and fixing indentations on the jaw bone.

Ask Your Dentist

The best way to find a periodontist is through a referral from your dentist. They will be able to point you in the direction of one that works well with them and has experience treating your specific issue.

You also want to be sure that the provider you choose takes your insurance and offers flexible financing options. This will make your procedure more affordable and help you avoid any unexpected expenses.

Ask if they use cutting edge technology like laser gum treatment and 3D imaging. This will allow them to diagnose and treat your condition more effectively, resulting in less pain and faster recovery times.

Finally, be sure to ask the periodontist about their practice culture and philosophy. You want to work with someone who is empathetic, caring and makes you feel comfortable during your visit. They should also take the time to answer all of your questions thoroughly. Also, make sure they offer flexible appointment scheduling to accommodate your busy schedule.

Look for Experience

Asking your dentist for a recommendation is a great way to find an experienced provider. Your dentist acts as your first line of defense when it comes to treating minor gum disease or tooth decay issues, but if the problem progresses, they may recommend you see a periodontist.

It is also important to look at the periodontist’s education and credentials. Check whether they have a 4-year degree and completed dental school. It is also helpful to look for memberships in professional organizations, as these will show that they are committed to keeping up with advancements in the field of dentistry and periodontics. The more up to date a periodontist is, the better care they can provide for their patients.

Ask About Technology

Whether it’s a new laser periodontal treatment, CT scans for 3D imaging or even a virtual reality headset, modern technology is revolutionizing dentistry and helping periodontists perform more complex procedures. Look for a dentist who embraces this new technology.

For example, a periodontist near me uses digital x-rays that display on the computer monitor almost instantly and emit up to 90 percent less radiation than traditional film x-rays. They also help Dr. Lauer more quickly identify problems with a patient’s teeth and gums, such as early tooth decay or bone loss.

Another technological breakthrough in oral care is CRISPR, a gene-editing tool that could help isolate and switch off plaque-producing bacteria. Increasingly, periodontists are using this technology to treat patients at earlier stages of gum disease, such as Gingivitis, before it progresses to Periodontal Disease.

Ask About Scheduling

A periodontist is a dental specialist who treats gum disease and dental implants. They have training for three years beyond dental school and are familiar with the latest advanced techniques for treating gum disease and supporting oral health.

When a patient visits the periodontist, they can expect to have a full examination and to have their teeth cleaned by an assistant. During the exam, the provider will check for bleeding, swelling, and loose or decaying teeth. They will also take x-rays and blood and saliva samples to evaluate inflammation and infection.

If an abscess is left untreated, it can damage the jaw bone and tissue. This damage can lead to tooth loss and a sunken-in appearance in the face. A periodontist can extract the tooth with minimal trauma, which reduces the need for a bone graft and allows for a faster recovery time.