Dentists treat the teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth. A dentist will work on a wide variety of cases related to oral health care, while a periodontist's practice is more narrowly focused. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.Periodontists treat only the gums and the bone supporting the teeth.
Dentists diagnose and treat injured and decaying teeth, gums and supporting bones, though they may refer more complex cases to specialists, such as periodontists. They remove teeth, clean teeth, manage routine checkups and provide oral health education to their patients. They serve as types of general practitioners for oral health, providing maintenance of the teeth and examining patients for disease and other issues, such as oral cancer. They also provide cosmetic care such as teeth whitening.
Typically, a periodontist's cases are complex or severe, triggering the need for a specialist rather than a general dentist. For example, a patient with severe gum disease often will see a periodontist for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may involve a non-surgical procedure, such as scaling or planing an infected root to a tooth, or it may involve oral surgery. Periodontists must be trained and skilled in advanced surgical techniques, including regenerative surgery, periodontal plastic surgery and dental implant placement, according to the American Academy of Periodontology.
Workplace and Pay
Dentists and periodontists work in similar settings, such as solo practices, group practices, hospitals, dental schools and other health clinics. In some cases, dentists and periodontists will work in the same clinic, allowing them to collaborate to treat patients. These clinics may include other dental specialists, such as orthodontists. Periodontists are dental specialists, a group that earned a median salary of $161,020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. General dentists earned a median income of $141,040.
Education and Credentials
Both dentists and periodontists must complete dental school after earning their undergraduate degrees. Dental school is a four-year program that includes both coursework and clinical experience. Periodontists then must complete an additional three years of postdoctoral training in their field, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Dentists and periodontists each must earn a dental license. Requirements vary by the state, but a dental degree and passing written and practical exams are typical, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Periodontists must acquire an additional state license specific to their field.
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