Periodontist

A periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. They also focus on the placement and maintenance of dental implants and the treatment of oral inflammation. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of this profession, including specializations, tasks and responsibilities, pros and cons, and more. By the way, recently the ProfGuide career guidance center has developed a precise career orientation test, which will tell you which professions are suitable for you, provide a conclusion about your personality type and intelligence.

Specializations

While all periodontists work with gum disease and dental implants, some may choose to focus on specific areas within the field. Common specializations include:

1. Periodontal plastic surgery
2. Regenerative periodontal therapy
3. Dental implant surgery
4. Oral medicine and pathology
5. Periodontal maintenance

Tasks and responsibilities

A periodontist's primary responsibilities include:

1. Diagnosing and treating gum disease
2. Performing surgical procedures to treat severe gum problems
3. Placing dental implants
4. Educating patients on proper oral hygiene and gum care
5. Collaborating with general dentists and other dental professionals

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. High demand for periodontists in many countries
2. Competitive salary and benefits
3. Opportunities for specialization and professional growth
4. Ability to help patients maintain good oral health and overall wellbeing

Cons:

1. Lengthy and expensive education and training
2. Possibility of dealing with difficult patients
3. Exposure to potential health hazards, such as bloodborne pathogens
4. May require long hours or being on call for emergencies

Demand (in USA, Canada, GB, Australia)

The demand for periodontists is consistently high in countries like the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and Australia due to an aging population, increased awareness of the importance of oral health, and advances in dental technology.

Salary ranges (in USA, Canada, GB, Australia)

• USA: $170,000 - $240,000
• Canada: CAD 120,000 - CAD 200,000
• Great Britain: £70,000 - £110,000
• Australia: AUD 120,000 - AUD 200,000

Where do Periodontists work? 

Periodontists primarily work in private dental practices, hospitals, and dental schools. They are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, which is a significant cause of tooth loss in adults. As dental implants become increasingly popular, periodontists also play a vital role in their placement and maintenance.

Important qualities of a successful Periodontist

1. Excellent manual dexterity
2. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
3. Detail-oriented and precise
4. Compassionate and empathetic
5. Good problem-solving and critical thinking abilities

Step-by-step career path

1. Obtain a bachelor's degree, ideally in a science-related field
2. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and apply to dental school
3. Complete dental school and earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree
4. Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and obtain licensure
5. Complete a periodontics residency program
6. Obtain board certification from the American Board of Periodontology (optional)
7. Find employment or start a private practice

How to become a Periodontist

In the United States, aspiring periodontists must first complete a bachelor's degree, followed by dental school, which typically takes four years. After obtaining a DDS or DMD degree, they must complete a periodontics residency program, which usually takes an additional three years. A residency program provides specialized training in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal disease and dental implant procedures. Although not required, some periodontists choose to become board-certified by the American Board of Periodontology to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

Where to become a Periodontist (in USA, Canada, GB, Australia)

USA:

1. University of California, San Francisco
2. University of Pennsylvania
3. University of Michigan
4. Columbia University
5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Canada:

1. University of Toronto
2. University of British Columbia
3. McGill University
4. University of Alberta
5. Dalhousie University

Great Britain:

1. King's College London
2. University of Manchester
3. University of Birmingham
4. Queen Mary University of London
5. University of Bristol

Australia:

1. University of Melbourne
2. University of Sydney
3. University of Queensland
4. University of Adelaide
5. Griffith University

Can you enter the profession with a different degree?

It is generally not possible to enter the periodontist profession with a degree unrelated to dentistry. To become a periodontist, you must first complete dental school and earn a DDS or DMD degree, followed by specialized training in periodontics. However, individuals with degrees in related fields, such as dental hygiene or dental assisting, may choose to pursue additional education to become a periodontist.