How to Choose a Board Certified Periodontist?

Periodontists are dentists who specialize in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal diseases and dental implants. They are qualified to offer surgical and non surgical oral cosmetic procedures and oral plastic surgery. Seeing a Cedar Park cosmetic dentistry is extremely important if you experience any of the symptoms relating to gum disease and tooth decay. But regular periodontal check-ups should be part and parcel of everyone's oral healthcare plan. It is always important to choose a board certified periodontist for this purpose in order to get the most out of your medical expenditure.

The Qualifications of a Periodontist 

A four year undergraduate college degree is mandatory to become a periodontist. Then he or she should graduate from a reputed dental school with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree. In addition to this a periodontist should complete a three to seven year formal training within an American Dental Association (ADA) accredited periodontology residency program. 

After all this training is completed successfully, a periodontist may earn board certification by the American Board of Periodontology (ABP). 

There will be a comprehensive oral and written examination in handing over board certification to periodontists. All phases of periodontal diseases & its treatments, and detailed reports on a range of treatment options covered under periodontology will have to be provided by the periodontist seeking board certification. Thereafter the board certified periodontist could commence private practice or be employed by the government. 

The periodontist must be re-certified every six years. This requires the periodontist to demonstrate his or her competence in educational and professional activities. They can work in hospitals, dental schools, national and international agencies and the business sector. They can also participate in research projects relating to oral health and well-being. 

With all the changes in dental insurance procedures, it is extremely important for patients to become involved in selecting their periodontists and the treatments. Choosing a highly skillful periodontist is really a challenge to layman like you. The cost of the care, the outcome of the care and the qualifications of the dentist is very important in this regard. This is why it is vital to choose a board certified periodontist when selecting the best professional to treat you or your loved ones. Asking the correct questions will help you a lot in this regard. Some of the most important questions to ask when selecting the best periodontist will be highlighted below.

1. Is the periodontist board certified? (very important)

2. Can I see the qualifications and the continuing educational courses you've taken during the last year? 

3. How much of experience do you have with the latest treatment options in periodontology?

4. Are you competent with regenerative procedures?

5. Can you perform root coverage grafts?

6. How much of experience are you having in placing dental implants?

7. What is not covered in regards to a particular dental plan?

The above information will help a patient to choose the best periodontist with board certification for his or her treatment.