Myth
Periodontists are only needed for the more complex and challenging gum disease and implant cases.
Fact
A periodontist is able to recognize the differences between simple cases and complex cases, and has the skill necessary to provide the proper treatment for either. And when a case is challenging, periodontists know how to properly manage the periodontal aspects of patient care from start to finish.
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Myth
My family dentist says he/she can provide periodontal treatment for me.
Fact
That is true. All general dentists are trained and should be capable of performing periodontal therapy for patients who present with mild/early forms of periodontal disease. A periodontist, however, specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease, as well as dental implant placement. All periodontists are general dentists, but they have also received 3 years of additional training after dental school to obtain the necessary education to perform procedures in periodontics. For patients who are diagnosed with moderate and advanced forms of periodontal disease (whether localized or generalized forms), treatment by a periodontal specialist is indicated. The value of seeing a periodontal specialist is that he/she can co-ordinate with the general dentist and provide the best approach for the patient under a TEAM APPROACH to oral heatlh care.
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Myth
My dentist says he can place my dental implant and that my case is simple.
Fact
There is no such thing as simple surgery. Periodontal and dental implant surgery of any form is a complex, advanced dental procedure that should never be taken lightly. Periodontists are surgical dental specialists who have completed extensive surgical training in dental surgery from an American Dental Association accredited 3 year post graduate residency program.
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Myth
It is more expensive to see a periodontist for management of my gum problems and/or placement of my implant compared to my general dentist.
Fact
Perhaps, but the treatment is not the same. While the treatment performed by a periodontist may be more expensive than a general dentist, it is worth the cost. By seeing a board certified periodontal specialist (i.e. Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology), you are guaranteeing yourself that you are receiving the highest standard of care by an expert in the field. A board certified periodontist has received extensive formal education specific towards diagnosing, treating, and preventing periodontal disease. He/She also has the ability to place dental implants as well as manage other surgical aspects related to implant dentistry.
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Myth
The dental implant procedure is very painful.
Fact
When performed by a highly trained and skilled implant surgeon, dental implant placement can be one of the least painful dental experiences. Periodontists are specialists in one of two American Dental Associated accredited surgical specialties of dentistry and have the necessary advanced surgical training to provide state of the art care.
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Myth
Children aren’t at risk for developing gum disease and therefore do not need to see a periodontist.
Fact
While approximately only 1% of children develop gum disease, it is a possibility. It is important to seek periodontal care at the earliest signs of periodontitis to help prevent it from progressing. Periodontists can help determine the risk of developing a more significant problem if a child has signs/symptoms of periodontal disease. They can assist your general dentist by developing a collaborative treatment plan for the long-term management of the patient, minimizing the potential for tooth loss.