What is a Periodontist?

A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the various types of periodontal diseases, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants. In order to become a Periodontist, one must first graduate from an accredited college where most applicants concentrate in a degree in one of the science fields. The next step is to attend Dental School for a period of four years where they graduate with a “Doctor of Dental Surgery degree; Doctors who then apply to enter the specialty of Periodontics and Implant Surgery are are required to complete a surgical residency in periodontics and Implant Surgery at a major university or medical center. In addition, Drs. Caldwell and Dimmitt have completed extensive Post Graduate Training Programs in comprehensive treatment planning, bone reconstruction, and dental implant placement and restoration—all with the goal of providing state-of-the-art surgical care. Our doctors are also trained in a variety of cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire. Not only that, our doctors teach these advanced implant surgical procedures to other surgeons, in their role as Surgical Faculty members at both the prestigious Misch International Implant Institute in Detroit Michigan, and Temple University’s School of Dentistry in Philadelphia.

Often General Dentists refer their patients to us when periodontal disease is present, or when surgery to treat various diseases is required, but a direct referral isn’t always mandatory. If you or your loved one are aware of problems related to gum disease like pus and tooth mobility, or have a desire to learn more about dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, please call our staff for an examination and consultation. The greatest compliment our patients can give is their referral of friends and family.