Like general dentists, periodontists complete standard four-year undergraduate degrees. They graduate from accredited dental schools, obtaining either Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degrees. A periodontist then completes an additional three to seven years of a specialized dental implant and gum disease training with an American Dental Association (ADA) accredited periodontology program.
The title “Board-Certified Periodontist” or “Diplomate” means that your periodontist has taken his or her education another big step forward. These professionals have gone beyond mandatory education requirements of the specialty and have passed additional rigorous written and oral examinations to further prove their expertise.
Significant Achievement
Your board-certified periodontist keeps up to date with the latest periodontal procedures and equipment related to implant technology and gum disease. This doctor has experience in handling both routine and difficult cases and is recertified every six years by the American Academy of Periodontology, a standard setting organization.
There is no requirement for a periodontist to obtain board certification. It’s an accomplishment the professional chooses to seek to signify his or her dedication to the highest possible level of care. Tested subject areas cover a large range of material related to the science and practice of periodontology, such as periodontal pathology (periodontal disease), epidemiology/statistics (patterns, causes and effects of periodontal diseases) and evidence-based clinical practice (guidelines based on the best up-to-date information). Periodontists who achieve this special certification are titled “Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology” to show that they’ve passed this very demanding peer review process.
Board “Eligible” is NOT the Same
Don’t be confused by seeing “board eligible.” The phrase “board eligible” might sound prestigious, but can actually imply one of two things, that your periodontist hasn’t taken the certification test—or perhaps, which is worse, has failed it. When in doubt, ask.
In summary, in selecting a specialist to address your periodontal needs, why not look for the “Diplomate” or “Board-Certified” marker? Put your “money where your mouth is” —in the capable hands of a doctor who is dedicated to long-term professional development in his/her practice, one who adapts to changing patient needs and constantly seeks to improve patient care.
Isn’t your smile worth choosing the best?
Philip L. Fava, II, DMD, MDSc, along with his partner, Robert A. Levine, DDS, FCPP, FISPPS, are both board-certified periodontists at the Pennsylvania Center for Dental Implants and Periodontics. They treat patients at Einstein Center One, Suite 211-212, 9800 Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19115. The practice provides “All-on-4™ dental implants; SameDay Smile® or “Smile Zone” dental implants; implant, crown and bridge implant restorations; in addition to LANAP laser treatment of periodontal disease, reconstructive dental surgery and Pinhole® certified gum rejuvenation.