Most people know what a dentist is, and have seen one, hopefully regularly, throughout their life. Surprisingly, not many are familiar with what a periodontist is or what job they perform. Periodontists can be a valuable part of your dental care team. Especially if you are prone to certain kinds of dental disease. Evaluate your personal history, as well as your family history, to decide if you should be looking for a periodontist in Glenview.
What They Do
Periodontists help treat and prevent a variety of periodontal disease. They are highly trained, and must complete an additional 3 years of training beyond dental school. Their training makes them especially qualified to diagnose and treat periodontal diseases. They are also trained in cosmetic procedures.
Who They See
A periodontist usually doesn’t see those who are lucky enough to have good dental health, or minor problems. They see people who have more problematic dental history, such as anyone with severe gum disease who may need to consider surgery to correct gum disease. They also provide services such as dental implants.
Your First Visit
You’re unlikely to undergo any sort of uncomfortable procedure during your first visit. Your provider will want to review your history extensively, both medical and dental. It is imperative that you disclose any medications you are currently taking, especially medications used to treat heart disease, if you have diabetes, or if you are or may be pregnant.
Your provider will examine your gums for gum line recession. They will also check for any loose teeth, and assess how well your teeth fit together when biting. X-rays may or may not be necessary to determine the health of your jaw bone.
Cost
Dental care costs can pile up over time. Gum disease treatments can cost you as little as $500, or upwards of $10,000, depending on how severe it is. Dental insurance may cover some or all of your treatment. If paying for care is prohibitive, some providers will work with you to create a payment plan.
If you are looking for a periodontist in Glenview, contact South Loop Dental Specialists and Dental Specialists of North Shore . Follow us on twitter.
