how to choose a periodontistHow to Choose a Periodontist

If you are in need of treatment for your advanced case of gum disease, choosing the right periodontist to fit your needs is vital. It is especially important to choose a periodontist that you can trust, and that makes you feel comfortable. At Triangle Periodontics, we are sure you will want to be part of our family. We have provided some useful information to help you along your journey of choosing the right periodontist that fits your oral health needs.

Education and Skill

It is important to ask about your periodontist’s educational background when considering whom to select. To become a periodontist, a dentist has to undergo extensive post-graduate training beyond what is taught in traditional dental school. Certification also matters. A certified periodontist can perform both non-surgical and surgical procedures ranging from scaling and root planing to dental implant surgery, and more.

At Triangle Periodontics, we pride ourselves in continuing education for all of our staff members. Periodontist Dr. Otis Washington received his Masters of Science in periodontics degree from the University of Chapel Hill, NC. He also is an active member of many professional organizations such as the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Board of Periodontology, and a few other well-respected professional organizations relating to the field of dentistry.

Request a consultation 

Education, background, and certifications indeed are important, but meeting with your potential periodontist will weigh heavy on your decision for choosing the right one. You should feel comfortable and confident in whom you choose, and the prospective periodontist should be able to answer any and all of your questions confidently and discuss with you what to expect for any procedures you may need to have done. During this consultation, it is also appropriate to request to see before and after photos of patients who have undergone similar procedures to what you may need. This will give you an idea of what to expect for your results.

Other important factors

There are some other important factors you may want to consider when choosing the right periodontist.

  • Continuing education and certifications
  • Length of time in practice
  • Payment plans accepted
  • Treatment plan philosophy
  • Pain management or anesthesia options
  • Office hours and location
  • Emergency care options

Take the next step

Choosing a periodontist that is convenient to your daily commute may make the most sense, but be sure you explore and consider other vital factors when choosing the right fit. At Triangle Periodontics, not only do we offer treatment for gum disease, but we can also help rebuild your smile and reverse the damaging signs of gum disease. Plus, we can provide repetitive treatments to ensure your gum disease remains at bay and does not return – giving you a healthy mouth for a lifetime.

What this means for you is that Triangle Periodontics offers treatment for patients dealing with all stages of gum disease from simple repetitive treatments to restorative options such as implant dentures, dental implants or even complete smile makeovers.

If you would like to know more about the services we offer or to schedule a consultation, please call us at 919-782-9536. We invite you to meet with Dr. Washington to discuss your desires for a beautiful, healthy smile.

Triangle Periodontics welcomes patients of Apex, Cary, and Raleigh, North Carolina.