Periodontics (Gums)

Periodontist: a dentist who specializes in the treatment of the gums and root, or structure of the teeth.  Periodontists provide a wide range of services from scaling, and root planning to move intensive surgeries such as pocket reductions, crown lengthening (gingival sculpting), soft tissue grafts, bone regeneration and implants.

How to find a periodontist?  It's estimated there are 4K periodontists in the US.  You can find a local periodontist from your general dentist, local dentistry schools, or sites like Free Dentist Finder.  You can also check with your dental insurance company, as they may only work with certain periodontist in your area.  Be sure to check your State Dentistry Board or the American Board of Periodontology (ABP) to ensure that the periodontist you choose is properly licensed.  Ask about your prospective periodontist's experience, thoroughness of practice, photos of previous patients, use of new technology (i.e digital x-rays), plan of action for your teeth, "bedside" manner, emergency care options, and of course financing/costs.