5 Questions to Ask a Periodontist

5 Questions to Ask a Periodontist

While all periodontists must meet the same academic and training standards, their levels of experience vary. Experience isn't the only thing that matters. You also want to find a practitioner that makes you feel comfortable, takes the time to educate you about your health, and completely answers all of your concerns.

1. What Is Your Approach to Treating Periodontitis?

There are numerous options for treating periodontitis (gum disease). Some are more effective, while others cause less pain. If you're looking for a periodontist to treat gum disease, you'll want to know what treatments your physician provides. Not every periodontist approaches periodontal treatments in the same manner. Minor occurrences of gum disease can be cured with a thorough dental cleaning; however, more serious cases need further treatment. Here are some common treatments:

- Scaling and root planing. This is the primary non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Scaling is the process of removing plaque from above and below the gumline, whereas planing is the flattening of rough places on the roots of your teeth. Both are performed with a local anesthetic, which can help alleviate pain;

- Flap surgery and pocket reduction. During flap surgery, the gums are pulled back to properly remove plaque and tartar. During the replacement operation, your periodontist will connect them tightly around the teeth, eliminating any gaps and lowering the risk of future gum disease;

- Soft tissue grafts.Tissue from the roof of your mouth is taken and utilized to improve regions with weaker gums.


Some periodontists are licensed to treat gum disease with LANAP, or Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. LANAP employed a powerful laser to eliminate unhealthy gums and inflammation. This approach is effective, painless, and noninvasive.

2. Which Type of Technology Do You Use?

Continuous improvements in dental technology give dental practitioners more choices than ever before for accurately detecting and treating diseases. Choosing a facility that invests in cutting-edge technology ensures that your periodontist is not only more qualified to create a proper treatment plan for you, but also offers less painful and more successful treatment choices.


When inquiring about the technology used by your physician, make sure to particularly inquire about laser periodontal therapy and diagnostics such as CT scans and 3D imaging. Also, inquire whether these treatments are performed in-house. The better the technology, the more likely your operation and therapy will be successful.

3. How Long Have You Been Practicing?

Most periodontists must complete the same educational requirements, including an undergraduate degree, dentistry school, and a residency program. Some states also need specific certification tests. However, it never hurts to inquire where your provider attended school in order to gauge the quality of their education.


A more useful inquiry may be how long they've been practicing, which will give you an idea of their experience and skill.

4. What Insurances Are Accepted, and Do You Provide Financing?

Some periodontal procedures can be costly, so it's always a good idea to ask your dentist whether they take your dental or medical insurance. If your plan is accepted, your periodontist's office will supply you with the relevant claims and codes, allowing you to verify with your insurance company to establish your out-of-pocket costs.


If you're having a procedure that isn't covered, contact your periodontist about payment alternatives. Some clinics will work with you to create a payment plan, but others may propose third-party financing options.

5. What Should I Expect When I Come In for an Appointment?

This is a rather open-ended yet crucial question. By inquiring, you can obtain a feel of the practice's daily operations and the staff's temperament. Is it simple to book an appointment? Are the office hours convenient? Is the staff pleasant and helpful? Is the waiting room usually crowded? Some periodontal procedures need numerous visits, so be sure the provider makes you feel comfortable throughout each one.


You don't want to be continually competing for an appointment time or adjusting your work schedule to accommodate one. You also want to attend a clinic that makes you feel at ease, which is why it's critical to understand what to expect during your session.

 





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