What is the Difference Between a Periodontist and a Dentist?
Posted on 3/8/2021 by Janie Scholes |
 Have you been experiencing pain in your gums as well as spotted bleeding? It's clear that you need to see a specialist. But the question is, which one? Should you go to a regular dentist or consult a periodontist? What is the difference between the two? Keep reading to find out.
Difference between a Periodontist and Dentist
You might have gone to your regular dentist, only to be told to go visit a periodontist for your particular concern, leaving you confused as to what the difference is between the two types of doctors.
Normally, a general dentist can check and treat all areas of your mouth, including the teeth, gums, cheeks, etc. In comparison, a periodontist focuses only on the gums and the teeth-supporting bones. A periodontist is more of a specialist who treats specific and severe cases. They undergo three additional years of education and training for this purpose.
As their name suggests, they focus on the treatment and prevention of periodontitis, which is a serious gum disease. While some general dentists can offer simple initial treatment, only a periodontist can treat periodontitis most efficiently and effectively.
Therefore, any time you have general concerns, such as a loose tooth or you need to get scaling or polishing done, you can consult your general dentist.
When you have a specific gum-related concern, on the other hand, it is always best to visit a periodontist. If you notice a change in your bite, receding gums, or bleeding and swollen gums, a periodontist is the way to go.
In any case, regular visits to the dentist, whichever kind that may be, are crucial for the overall health of your teeth and gums. Therefore, if you're not sure who to visit, just contact Dr. Scholes at Scholes Periodontics & Implants, and we can guide you from there.
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