Periodontist vs. Oral Surgeon: Who Should You See?
When you need specialized dental care, you may wonder whether a periodontist or an oral surgeon is the right choice. Both specialists are highly trained, but their focus and expertise differ in ways that can affect your treatment and long-term oral health. Understanding these differences helps you make confident, informed decisions.
At Pinnacle Center Dental Implants and Periodontics in Pittsburgh, PA, our board-certified periodontists, Dr. Katherine L. Roll and Dr. Kelly B. Williams, focus on improving gum health, rebuilding bone, and restoring smiles with dental implants. Patients often ask how periodontists compare to oral surgeons, and the right answer depends on your individual needs and oral health conditions.
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What Is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist with years of advanced training beyond dental school. Their expertise centers on the gums, bone, and other supporting structures of the teeth. While a general dentist provides routine care such as cleanings and fillings, a periodontist steps in when the gums and bone require advanced treatment.
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Common treatments include:
- Gum disease treatment: Managing all stages of periodontal disease
- Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning to remove bacteria below the gumline
- Soft tissue grafting: Repairing gum recession or exposed roots
- Bone regeneration and bone grafting: Rebuilding lost bone or preparing for dental implants
- Dental implant placement: Restoring missing teeth while protecting gum and bone health
- Crown lengthening: Reshaping gum and bone tissue for aesthetics or restorations
- Tooth extractions: Removing compromised teeth to protect overall oral health
Periodontists perform extensive bone grafting procedures, often more than oral surgeons, because rebuilding bone to support both natural teeth and dental implants is central to their specialty. They also work closely with general dentists to coordinate treatment, ensuring long-term stability and optimal oral health.
If you experience bleeding gums, bone loss, gum recession, or are considering dental implants, a periodontist is the specialist to see.
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What Is an Oral Surgeon?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon also completes years of additional training after dental school but focuses on surgical procedures involving the teeth, jaw, and facial structures. Their work often extends beyond the gums and teeth to include corrective, reconstructive, and trauma-related surgeries.
With dental implants, you can restore your smile, regain your confidence, and enjoy all the benefits of having strong, healthy teeth.
Typical treatments include:
- Removal of impacted or wisdom teeth
- Jaw surgery to correct bite or alignment issues
- Treatment of facial injuries or trauma
- Surgical removal of cysts or tumors
- TMJ surgery for joint dysfunction
- Complex bone grafting or reconstructive procedures
An oral surgeon is best suited for cases involving the jaw or facial bones, or when surgery extends beyond the mouth’s soft tissues.
Key Differences Between Periodontists and Oral Surgeons
While both can perform certain overlapping procedures, the key differences lie in their areas of specialization:
- Periodontists focus on gum health, bone support, and dental implants, with advanced expertise in bone grafting and tissue regeneration.
- Oral surgeons focus on surgical corrections of the jaw, face, and impacted teeth.
Because periodontists work closely with general dentists and are experts in identifying and treating the underlying causes of bone and gum problems, they offer a more comprehensive approach to oral health.
Throughout this process, your comfort and understanding are our top priorities.
Choosing the Right Specialist for Dental Implants
Both periodontists and oral surgeons can place dental implants, but periodontists bring additional insight into the health of the supporting gum and bone structures that determine long-term implant success.
At Pinnacle Center, our periodontists go beyond the procedure itself. They conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your entire mouth, examining gum health, bone density, and systemic health factors that may affect healing and outcomes.
We do not just place implants; we ensure the cause of bone or gum loss is identified and addressed first. If you have systemic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune issues, these are factored into your treatment plan to promote full recovery and long-term success.
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FAQs
Do I need a referral to see a periodontist?
Usually, you do not need a referral to see a periodontist. While many patients are referred by their general dentist, you are welcome to contact Pinnacle Center directly for a comprehensive evaluation.
Which specialist is better for dental implants, a periodontist or an oral surgeon?
Both can place implants, but periodontists have specialized expertise in gum and bone health, which are critical for long-term implant success. At Pinnacle Center, our periodontists assess your gum and bone condition first, correct any issues, and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Why do periodontists perform more bone grafting than oral surgeons?
Periodontists perform extensive bone grafting because rebuilding bone around teeth and implants is central to their specialty. They not only restore bone structure but also ensure it integrates properly with the surrounding gum tissue for lasting implant stability.
How closely do periodontists work with general dentists?
Periodontists often work closely with your general dentist to coordinate care. This collaboration ensures that both your periodontal health and your overall dental treatment plan align perfectly, whether you need gum therapy, implants, or restorative work.
How does Pinnacle Center evaluate patients?
At Pinnacle Center, every patient receives a comprehensive evaluation. We identify the root cause of your dental issues, whether local or systemic, to create a personalized plan that supports long-term oral and overall health. You are not just another number in our office; your care is specifically designed for your needs, medical history, and goals.
Can systemic health issues affect gum disease or implant success?
Yes. Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and certain medications can impact your gum and bone health. Our periodontists consider these systemic factors when planning your treatment to ensure the best possible outcomes.
How do I know if my gum disease requires a periodontist?
If your gums are bleeding, swollen, or receding, or if your teeth feel loose, it is best to see a periodontist. They specialize in identifying why these issues occur and addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes.
Should I see a periodontist or oral surgeon for bone grafting?
If your bone grafting is being done to support dental implants or restore gum-related bone loss, a periodontist is the right choice. If the grafting is part of a major jaw reconstruction or trauma repair, an oral surgeon may be more appropriate.
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Personalized Care at Pinnacle Center
At Pinnacle Center, we take pride in providing individualized care for every patient. You are not just another number; your treatment is tailored to your unique needs through a personalized, comprehensive evaluation.
Why patients throughout Pittsburgh choose us:
- Comprehensive evaluations: We identify the cause of each patient’s condition and address any systemic issues affecting healing or gum health.
- Expertise: Dr. Roll and Dr. Williams are board-certified periodontists with advanced training in complex bone and gum procedures.
- Collaborative care: Our periodontists work closely with general dentists to ensure every aspect of your oral health is supported.
- Technology: We use advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques for precision and comfort.
- Patient-centered philosophy: We tailor every treatment to your needs, goals, and long-term health.
When to See a Periodontist
See a periodontist if you have:
- Bleeding or receding gums
- Loose teeth from bone loss
- Chronic bad breath from gum disease
- The need for gum or bone grafting
- Dental implants requiring bone support
- Tooth extractions due to gum disease
When to See an Oral Surgeon
See an oral surgeon if you need:
- TMJ surgery or complex bone reconstruction
- Wisdom teeth or impacted tooth removal
- Jaw surgery or facial reconstruction
- Treatment for cysts, tumors, or trauma
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are unsure whether you should see a periodontist or an oral surgeon, start with a comprehensive evaluation at Pinnacle Center. We will explain your options, identify any underlying causes, and guide you toward the right treatment for lasting results.
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