Most people begin their search for a periodontist based on referrals from their dentist. Periodontists differ from general dentists in that they specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the periodontium. Procedures performed by periodontists range from cosmetic to surgical.
Patients are generally referred to a periodontist if they suffer from gingivitis or periodontitis. Some patients may be advised to visit a periodontist due to smoking or the presence of certain diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular diseases related to the bone, such as osseonecrosis, etc.
One of the most important things to pay attention to when looking for a periodontologist is his education and qualifications. The path followed by a periodontist is long and precisely regulated. All periodontists in Bulgaria must complete a specialization lasting 3 years after the 6 years of study in dentistry from an accredited higher education institution.
Most of the time, patients contact the periodontist on the recommendation of their dentist. However, there are some factors to consider when choosing the right periodontist for you. In addition to having completed education as a periodontist, pay attention to his experience. Some people will feel uncomfortable letting recently graduated periodontists work in their mouths, but those with years of experience may prefer to use outdated techniques simply because they know them well.
Additionally, some periodontists may be more familiar and experienced with certain treatments and procedures than others. Even with years of experience, a periodontist may be inexperienced in dealing with your particular situation.
While the financial side of treatment is always a concern for patients, you need to make sure that you and your periodontist are on the same page about the expected cost of treatment. Any reputable periodontist will feel comfortable discussing these things with you or refer you to someone in their practice who will be able to answer your questions.
As a patient, you need to feel comfortable and understand how your treatment is going. Ask your periodontist as many questions as possible so that you feel at ease about your situation. A good periodontist will be happy to answer them as long as you are satisfied with the answers received. Individual periodontists can also have a radically different approach to the treatment of periodontal diseases, from more aggressive to more conservative. Some can rely on antibiotics and medications, while others prefer to try alternative methods first.
Make sure his philosophy matches yours and you feel comfortable in his presence.
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