Are you experiencing pain in your gums? Are you searching for a “Periodontist near me?
You’re not alone. According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults who are 30 years and older, have periodontal disease.
Don’t continue to suffer from painful gums. In this article, read on to explore how to pick out the perfect Periodontist in Phoenix AZ.
Our team here at Arizona Periodontal Group will go over what you’ll want to look for to ensure you’ll receive some of the best care possible in the area!
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontists in Phoenix will let you know that periodontal disease is normally from an inflammation or infection of the bone and gums. These bones and gums support and surround your teeth.
At the beginning of periodontal disease, you’ll experience what’s known as gingivitis. This is an early stage, and when your gums are red and swollen. You might also notice bleeding.
Periodontitis is an advanced form of periodontal disease. This is when the gums pull away from your teeth, and you can lose bone, or your teeth themselves.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease?
Dr. Trujillo and our team will ensure that you’re properly brushing and flossing. You’ll want to floss at least once a day to make sure that any food particles left from brushing your teeth are gone.
It’s also important to have a comprehensive periodontal evaluation since your gums, plaque level, bone structure, and teeth will be examined. When periodontal disease is caught early by a licensed local periodontist, it can be better prevented from reaching a later stage.
What Is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who has a specialty in diagnosing, preventing and treating periodontal disease. They can also help with the oral inflammation you might be experiencing.
A high-quality periodontist can be a one-stop location, where you can go for regular dental needs, and periodontal treatment.
During your first appointment, we go over your dental and medical history. We’ll also go over any current medications you’re taking.
1. Certification and Education
A qualified periodontist will have 4 years of college and then go to an accredited dental school. After this, they have to do 3-7 years of training in a periodontology residency program. A certification they can receive is from the American Board of Periodontology (ABP), after taking an examination.
Every few years your periodontist must go and become recertified. Besides education and certification, you should also find out how long they’ve been in practice.
2. Ask About Sedation Options
If you’re nervous about going to a periodontist, find out what sedation options they have available. Different sedative options can include IV sedation, laughing gas, or an oral pill. You can also ask what medications they offer.
3. Financing Options
As a patient, you’ll want to ensure that the periodontist in Phoenix you choose, offers financing options. While some have dental insurance that covers many services, not everyone does. That’s why we offer CareCredit. This is a great way to pay over time, instead of as a large lump sum.
CareCredit lets you:
- Enjoy no annual fees
- Receive treatment immediately
- Pay over time
- Pay for other medical expenses
If you do have dental insurance, call and speak with our team about coverage options.
4. Consider the Location
How often will you need to go to the periodontist? How important is the location for you? If you need special treatment, it might require a few visits over many months.
While the quality of your periodontist is number one, also consider how far you’ll have to travel for your appointments. Also, consider the options for parking, whether there’s a parking lot, or if you’ll have to park on the street.
Hours of Operation
Besides the location, you’ll want to ensure that the hours of operation work for your schedule as well. Find out what days and hours the office is open.
5. Treatment Options
As a patient, you’ll want to make sure that the periodontist in the area performs the services you’re looking for. This could include cosmetic dentistry, bleeding gum treatment, gum grafting, or other treatment options.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
When you’re looking for some of the best treatments for periodontal disease, you’ll want to see a periodontist. Dr. Trujillo sees patients for general dentistry, and periodontal treatment as well.
Don’t let your periodontal disease go, and have it turn into other problems. It’s important you see a trained professional who can spot a problem, and help correct it.
What to Expect
Your licensed periodontist will go over all medications you’re currently taking, along with your dental and medical history. Let us know if you’re currently smoking since that can increase your risk of periodontal disease.
We will examine:
- Gums and teeth
- Throat and mouth
- Jaw joints
- Neck
- Head
We’ll ensure that you’re on a proper oral hygiene regimen that includes proper brushing and flossing. If you have any questions for your periodontist, make sure to ask.
Determining the Right Periodontist Near Me
Now that you’ve explored how to determine the right periodontist near me, you should be well on your way to choosing the best periodontists in Phoenix.
Choose an experienced and licensed periodontist in the Phoenix area. Look for a one-stop location where you can receive general dentistry as well. That’s exactly what Dr. Trujillo offers.
Contact our team today, and we’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your needs, whether periodontal, general dentistry or both.
