What is the difference between a periodontist and a regular dentist?

A periodontist is a dentist who has completed 3 additional years of specialized residency training focused on treating gum disease, placing dental implants, and performing gum and bone surgery. A general dentist handles routine care and mild gum disease. When gum disease is moderate to severe or surgery is needed, a periodontist has the advanced training required.

Do I need a referral to see a periodontist?

In most cases, no. Many periodontists accept patients directly without a referral. If you have concerns about bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, you can call a periodontist and schedule an evaluation on your own. Some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so check with your plan if that is a concern.

What is the difference between a periodontist and an endodontist?

A periodontist treats the structures around the tooth: gums, bone, and supporting tissues. An endodontist treats problems inside the tooth: the pulp, nerves, and root canals. If you have gum disease or need an implant, you see a periodontist. If you need a root canal, you see an endodontist.

When should I see a periodontist instead of my regular dentist?

See a periodontist when your gum disease has progressed beyond what regular cleanings can manage, when you have deep periodontal pockets, when gums are receding, when bone loss is visible on X-rays, or when you need dental implants. Your general dentist will often recommend a periodontist when specialized treatment is needed.

Does seeing a periodontist hurt?

Periodontal evaluations are painless and similar to a regular dental exam. For procedures like deep cleanings or surgery, local anesthesia is used so you should not feel pain during treatment. Some discomfort after surgical procedures is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

Can a periodontist save loose teeth?

In many cases, yes. Periodontists treat the bone loss and infection that cause teeth to become loose. Through deep cleaning, bone grafting, or pocket reduction surgery, a periodontist can often stabilize loose teeth and prevent further bone loss. The earlier you seek treatment, the better the outcome is likely to be.

What Is a Periodontist?

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist treats the tissues that surround and support the teeth. This includes the gums (gingiva), the bone that holds the teeth in place (alveolar bone), the ligament that connects the tooth to the bone (periodontal ligament), and the root surface of the tooth (cementum). When any of these structures are damaged by disease, injury, or genetics, a periodontist is the specialist trained to treat them.

The most common condition a periodontist treats is periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease ranges from gingivitis (mild inflammation of the gums) to periodontitis (advanced infection that destroys bone and soft tissue). Left untreated, periodontitis leads to tooth loss.

Common Periodontal Procedures

Periodontists perform a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments. The procedure recommended for you depends on the type and severity of your condition.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

This non-surgical treatment is often the first step for patients with early to moderate gum disease. The periodontist removes plaque and tartar (calculus) from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can reattach to the teeth. Local anesthesia is used for comfort. Most patients need 2 visits to complete all four quadrants of the mouth.

Gum Graft Surgery

When gums recede and expose the tooth root, a periodontist can graft tissue to cover the exposed area. The graft tissue may come from the roof of the mouth, a tissue bank, or synthetic material. Gum grafting protects the root from decay, reduces sensitivity, and improves the appearance of the gum line.

Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery)

In advanced gum disease, deep pockets form between the teeth and gums where bacteria collect. The periodontist folds back the gum tissue, removes the bacteria and damaged bone, and repositions the gums to fit more snugly around the teeth. This reduces pocket depth and makes it easier to keep the area clean.

Dental Implant Placement

Periodontists are one of the specialist groups trained to place dental implants. Their expertise in bone and gum tissue makes them well suited for implant surgery, especially when bone grafting is needed before or during implant placement. After the implant integrates with the bone, your general dentist or a prosthodontist places the final crown.

Bone Grafting and Regeneration

When gum disease has destroyed bone around the teeth, a periodontist can place bone graft material to encourage the body to regenerate new bone. This procedure may be done to save existing teeth, prepare for dental implants, or restore the jaw after tooth extraction.

Periodontist Training and Credentials

Every periodontist is a dentist first. After earning a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school (4 years), a periodontist completes an additional 3 years of full-time residency training accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This residency focuses entirely on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, implant surgery, and regenerative procedures.

During residency, periodontists treat hundreds of patients with complex gum disease, place dental implants, and perform surgical procedures under the guidance of experienced faculty. They also study the connection between periodontal health and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and pregnancy complications.

Many periodontists pursue board certification through the American Board of Periodontology (ABP). Board-certified periodontists have passed written and oral examinations and demonstrated ongoing commitment to continuing education. While board certification is voluntary, it signals an additional level of verified expertise.

When Are You Referred to a Periodontist?

General dentists manage many cases of mild gum disease. However, certain situations benefit from the specialized training and surgical skills a periodontist provides.

Common Reasons for Referral

Moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis) that has not responded to standard treatment
Gum recession that is causing sensitivity, root exposure, or cosmetic concerns
Deep periodontal pockets (typically 5mm or greater) that cannot be maintained with regular cleanings
Bone loss visible on X-rays that threatens the stability of one or more teeth
Need for dental implant placement, especially when bone or gum grafting is required
Complex medical history (diabetes, immunosuppression) that complicates gum disease management
A family history of early tooth loss from gum disease

Signs You Should See a Periodontist on Your Own

You do not need a referral to schedule an appointment with a periodontist. If you notice any of the following, it is reasonable to seek an evaluation directly: gums that bleed when you brush or floss, gums that have pulled away from your teeth, persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing, teeth that feel loose or have shifted position, or pain when chewing.

Early detection makes periodontal disease much easier to treat. By the time symptoms are obvious, the disease may already be moderate or advanced.

How Much Does a Periodontist Cost?

An initial periodontal evaluation typically costs between $100 and $300, which usually includes X-rays and a full periodontal charting (measuring pocket depths around every tooth). Costs vary by location, provider, and case complexity.

Treatment costs depend on the procedure. Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) typically ranges from $150 to $350 per quadrant. Gum graft surgery ranges from $600 to $1,200 per area treated. Dental implant placement ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 for the surgical portion alone, with the crown as a separate cost.

Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal treatment at 50-80% after the deductible, though coverage limits vary. Some procedures, like dental implants, may have limited or no insurance coverage depending on your plan. Many periodontal practices offer payment plans or financing options.

Find a Periodontist Near You

Every periodontist on My Specialty Dentist has verified specialty credentials. Search by location to find a periodontist in your area, review their experience, and schedule a consultation about your gum health.

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What Is a Periodontist? Your Guide to Gum Disease Specialists

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