What Is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and on the placement of dental implants. Periodontists complete 3 additional years of specialty training after dental school, focusing entirely on the gums, supporting bone, and dental implants. When you have gum disease, gum recession, loose teeth, or need dental implants, a periodontist is the right specialist.

How Periodontists Are Trained

Every periodontist has completed:

• Four years of undergraduate education
• Four years of dental school (DDS or DMD)
• Three years of full-time specialty residency in periodontology, accredited by the ADA

Board Certified periodontists have additionally passed rigorous written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Periodontology, demonstrating advanced expertise in the field.

What Periodontists Treat

• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) at every stage
• Gum recession requiring gum grafting
• Loose teeth from bone loss or trauma
• Dental implant placement and full-arch restoration
• Bone grafting and sinus lift procedures
• Peri-implantitis (infection around existing implants)
• Crown lengthening for restorative or cosmetic reasons
• Gummy smile correction and gum contouring
• Cosmetic gum bleaching and lightening

Periodontist vs General Dentist

Your general dentist handles the whole mouth: cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, and basic gum care. A periodontist focuses specifically on the gums, bone, and implants. General dentists often refer patients to periodontists for:

• Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) for periodontitis
• Any type of gum surgery
• Complex implant cases (full-arch, immediate placement, thin bone)
• Bone grafting
• Gum recession that has not responded to conservative care

A good general dentist and periodontist coordinate treatment. You keep your regular dentist for cleanings and general care, and see the periodontist for the specialized work.

When You Should See a Periodontist

• Bleeding gums that do not improve with better home care
• Receding gums where roots show
• Loose adult teeth
• Chronic bad breath despite good hygiene
• You have been told you have gum disease or bone loss
• You want dental implants
• You have a gummy smile you want corrected

A referral from your general dentist is common but not required. You can request a periodontal consult directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see a periodontist?

No. You can request a consult directly. Most insurance plans do not require a referral, though we recommend checking your specific plan.

How is a periodontist different from an oral surgeon?

Both specialists place implants. Oral surgeons additionally handle jaw surgery, wisdom tooth extractions, facial trauma, and pathology. Periodontists additionally handle all gum disease, gum grafting, and non-surgical periodontal therapy. There is significant overlap on implants.

Are periodontists covered by dental insurance?

Yes, most services are covered under standard dental plans, often at the same rate as general-dentistry services. Some cosmetic procedures are excluded.

Consult in DC, Alexandria, or Reston

Our team is Board Certified and treats the full range of periodontal and implant conditions. Request a consult at our Washington DC, Alexandria, or Reston office.