Are you looking for a periodontist in New Jersey? When you need treatment for complex gum or jaw issues, a periodontist can help. Do you suffer from gum disease or need a dental implant? These are just a few of the services periodontists specialize in.
If your dentist has recommended that you see a periodontist, you can accept your dentist’s recommendation or feel free to find your own. There are many practicing periodontists in New Jersey, so how do you choose the best one? Here’s what to look for.
Credentials
At the very least, a periodontist should have earned their doctor of dental medicine at a reputable university. In order to be referred to as a periodontist, a dentist must complete additional training to earn that specialty. A periodontist is a dentist who has extensive additional education to attain a specialization in periodontology and have received a post-doctorate degree in Periodontology. If in question, ask for proof of their credentials.
Membership in Dental Organizations
A periodontist who takes the time to be a part of professional dental organizations shows that they keep up to date with current best practices and other advancements in the field of dentistry and periodontology. It is important for any professional in the medical field to stay in contact with other professionals in the same field and even related fields, and professional organizations are a great way to do so.
Experience
The level of experience a periodontist has can make a big difference in the quality of care you will receive. Look for an established practice that has been serving the community for a significant amount of time. As with any other profession, experience helps to hone a specialist’s skills so that they can perform procedures efficiently and effectively. Experience also helps with communication skills between dentist and patient.
Technology
Look for a periodontist who incorporates the latest technology in their office. Advancements in technology have made dental and periodontal procedures faster, more precise, and less invasive, allowing patients to have a more comfortable experience. Outdated technology and practices can make your visit more stressful than it needs to be.
Certification for Oral Sedation
Do you suffer from dental anxiety? If the idea of undergoing a dental or periodontal procedure makes you nervous, look for a periodontist who has an oral sedation certification. Some patients would prefer to be put to sleep during a procedure so that they see, feel, and hear nothing at all during the process. Advanced anesthesia is a complex medical field that requires specialized training to administer properly. Not all practices offer sedation as an option, so if that is a possibility for you, choose a periodontist who offers it.
In-Network with your Dental Insurance
Many periodontal procedures are covered in part by dental insurance. Most practices accept most major insurance providers, but are not necessarily in-network with them all. Having a procedure done at an in-network office will often cost you less out of pocket because the insurance company and the periodontist have negotiated the prices of procedures ahead of time and have a set agreement.
Progressive Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Looking for the best periodontist near you in NJ? Dr. Marc Gordon at Progressive Periodontics and Implant Dentistry has offices in both Eatontown and Howell, NJ. Dr. Gordon received his DMD from Tufts University and completed a two year specialty in periodontics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He is a member of a long list of professional dental organizations including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology. Dr. Gordon has additional certifications in oral sedation and dental implant therapy. He is the former head of Periodontics at Monmouth Medical Center. Dr. Gordon continuously updates his abilities through continuing education programs. Read his full bio here.
Call 732-389-3400 to schedule an appointment at our Eatontown Office or 732-364-2025 for our Howell Office. You can also request an appointment at either office. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile.