A Guide to Expert Care

Finding the names of local periodontist practices is easy, but ensuring the provider has the necessary experience to treat your condition as effectively as possible may require a bit of research. If you’re in search of “the best periodontist near me,” below are some tips to help you find the most experienced provider.

Understanding Periodontics: More Than Just Gum Disease

Before we delve into the tips, let’s briefly discuss what a periodontist is and what they do. A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the treatment of gum disease, dental implants, and other conditions affecting the gums and supporting bone structure of the teeth.

Why See a Periodontist?

You might need to see a periodontist if you’re experiencing:

• Gum Disease: This is a common dental condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
• Gum Recession: This occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
• Tooth Loss: If you’ve lost teeth, a periodontist can help you replace them with dental implants.
• Bone Loss: This can occur as a result of gum disease or other factors, and a periodontist can help restore the bone.

Tips for Finding the Best Periodontist Near Me

Ask Your General Dentist for a Referral: Your general dentist is a great starting point. They know your oral health history and can recommend a periodontist who’s a good fit for your specific needs. Think of your dentist as your primary care provider for your teeth. If you have a minor issue like gum disease or need a tooth pulled, they’ll handle it. But for more complex problems, like serious gum disease or dental implants, they’ll often refer you to a specialist – a periodontist.

The best part? Your dentist probably knows the best periodontists in the area. If they’re willing to refer their own patients, that’s a great sign of trust. They can also give you the inside scoop on the periodontist’s personality and how well they treat patients.

Ask Your Friends and Family: Word of mouth can be a powerful tool when it comes to finding a good periodontist. If you have friends, family, or neighbors who’ve seen one, ask them about their experience. They can give you firsthand insights into the periodontist’s personality, treatment plans, and office atmosphere.  Ask them questions like:

• Was the periodontist easy to talk to?
• Did they explain the treatment plan clearly?
• Were the office staff friendly and helpful?
• How many visits did it take to complete the treatment?

A personal recommendation from someone you trust can be invaluable.

Check Online Reviews and Ratings: Websites like Google, Yelp, and Healthgrades allow patients to share their experiences with healthcare providers. Look for reviews that highlight the periodontist’s expertise, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction.

Verify Board Certification:  It’s not just about finding a local periodontist. You want to make sure they’re qualified and experienced. Don’t be afraid to ask how long they’ve been practicing and where they went to school.

Periodontists have a lot of training under their belts. After dental school, they spend an extra 3 to 7 years specializing in gum disease and dental implants. This extra training makes them experts in their field.

To be a top-notch periodontist, they should be board-certified and members of professional organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology. These organizations set high standards for their members, so you can trust that they’re getting the best care possible.

Inquire About Experience and Expertise: Ask about the periodontist’s experience in treating your specific condition. If you’re considering dental implants, for example, inquire about the number of implant procedures they’ve performed and their success rate.

Consider the Practice’s Technology and Facilities: A modern dental practice with the latest technology can make your treatment more precise and comfortable. Ask your potential periodontist if they use:

• Digital X-rays: These provide clearer images and lower radiation exposure.
• Laser therapy: This can help reduce bleeding and swelling during procedures.
• 3D imaging: This can help plan complex treatments like dental implants.

By using the latest technology, your periodontist can provide more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatments.

Evaluate the Office Staff: A friendly and knowledgeable office staff can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Oftentimes, online reviewers will mention how they were treated by Periodontist staff members. Then, pay attention to how you’re treated during your initial consultation and follow-up appointments.

Schedule a Consultation: The best way to determine if a periodontist is right for you is to schedule a consultation. During this appointment, you can ask questions about your treatment options, discuss your concerns, and get a feel for the periodontist’s personality.

What to Expect During Your First Visit: Your initial consultation with a periodontist typically involves a comprehensive oral examination, including:

Medical and Dental History Review: The periodontist will review your medical and dental history to identify any potential risk factors for gum disease or other oral health issues.

• Dental Exam: A thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and bite.
• Oral Cancer Screening: A visual examination of your oral tissues to check for signs of oral cancer.
• Dental X-rays: X-rays can help identify bone loss, tooth decay, and other underlying issues.

Common Periodontist Procedures: Periodontists offer a wide range of treatments, including:

• Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment: This involves professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums.
• Surgical Gum Disease Treatment: In severe cases of gum disease, surgery may be necessary to reduce inflammation and restore healthy gum tissue.
• Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation1 for crowns, bridges, or dentures.   
• Bone Grafting: Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves adding bone to the jawbone to support dental implants or other restorative treatments.
• Soft Tissue Grafting: Soft tissue grafting is used to cover exposed root surfaces and improve the appearance of the gums.

Choosing the Right Periodontist for You

When selecting a periodontist, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Look for a provider who is not only skilled and experienced but also compassionate and understanding.

The Mugford Center, conveniently located near Annapolis, MD, takes patients who want to book directly by calling them or filling out the website contact form. They also take referral patients.

By following these tips and doing your research, you can find a periodontist who can help you achieve optimal oral health.

Check Out The Mugford Center Today

If you’re looking for a periodontist in the Crofton, Maryland area, we encourage you to schedule a comprehensive dental exam at the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants. You can book an appointment by calling us directly at (410) 260-0790 or by filling out our online contact form.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take control of your oral health and schedule your comprehensive dental exam today.