In dentistry, all dentists have the standard DDS or DDM credentials; however, it’s those individuals who go on to specialize in certain fields who can treat more complex issues. It can be difficult knowing which type of dental specialist you should see for a particular problem. After all, you just know that something hurts, or you need a tooth replaced. To help you better understand the difference between certain specialty fields, learn when you should see a periodontist vs. prosthodontist and why it’s in your best interest to visit a practice that has both types of specialists on staff.
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a specialist who treats deteriorating gums, receding gums, or who can place dental implants. Whether you have gum disease or need multiple teeth replaced, this is the individual who will best serve your needs and help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.
Although a general dentist can treat early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), once the problem escalates to periodontitis, that is where a periodontist can come in and rectify the problem.
A regular dentist can also take care of your missing teeth needs during the initial consultation and placing of the custom restoration, but the actual placement of the implants should be left up to someone who has the skill, knowledge, and training to properly place your implants so that they remain stable and functional for as long as possible.
What is a Prosthodontist?
A prosthodontist is a specialist who treats dental and facial problems that involve replacing missing teeth, restoring the jaw, and is trained to treat TMJ disorder (TMD), place dental crowns and bridges, dentures, and dental implants. They can also perform various cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Their ability to understand the aesthetics and overall aspects of a person’s mouth allows them to use particular methods and techniques to restore, preserve, and repair smiles.
What Are the Differences Between Them?
There are several differences between a periodontist and a prosthodontist, some of which include:
Periodontist
- Can treat complex and severe cases of gum disease
- Has the training to use advanced techniques to perform periodontal plastic surgery as well as dental implant placement
- Undergoes three additional years of training in periodontics after completing four years of dental school
Prosthodontist
- Focuses more on the mouth as a whole instead of one particular area
- Treatment goals center around functionality, aesthetics, and oral health
- Repairs teeth using porcelain veneers, dental crowns, bridges, or even dentures, dental implants, or a fixed bridge
Why Is It Important to Have Both Specialists at a Dental Practice?
By choosing a dental practice that has both types of specialists on staff, you are essentially hitting the dental jackpot. Why? Here are just a few outstanding reasons:
- Convenience: Not only are you saving time by not having to drive between dental offices for treatment, but you have the ability to see all the specialists you need under one roof. This saves you time and money.
- Familiarity: When you make an appointment to see your general dentist, it’s likely you’ll see others during your visit, including the periodontist and prosthodontist, even if it’s in passing. Becoming accustomed and familiar to the faces in your dental office will lessen any fears or anxiety you might have should you require a particular treatment or procedure.
- Availability: If you need periodontal therapy before you can move forward with dentures, you’re in luck because you won’t need to go elsewhere for treatment. Both specialists can monitor your treatment and perform the necessary work as soon as you are ready, again, all under one roof!
Forget excess time spent traveling and making multiple appointments at different dental offices. Embrace the possibilities of visiting a dental practice that offers comprehensive services and specialists who can take care of all aspects of your oral health.
About the Authors
As Dent-Plant Dental Implant Center’s implantologist, Dr. Bita Amanda Farhoumand is a board-certified periodontist and implantologist. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with Distinction from the University of Virginia before enrolling at UCLA School of Dentistry and receiving her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Dr. Farhoumand received her Certificate in Periodontics from the New York University Post-Graduate Program in Periodontology and Implant Dentistry in 2013.
Alongside Dr. Farhoumand is Dr. Fotini Chrisopoulos. She is a board-eligible prosthodontist who graduated first from the School of Dentistry of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She then completed three years of postgraduate studies at Columbia University in New York, where she also obtained a Master of Science degree in prosthodontics, graduating with honors. To find out how we can help you, contact us via the website or by calling (571) 352-9006.