The Difference Between a Periodontist and a General Dentist in Seattle, WA
Understanding Specialized Dental Care with Aurora Dental Care
When it comes to maintaining your oral health, you may wonder: should you see a general dentist, or do you need a periodontist? While both professionals are vital to your dental care, their training, focus, and treatments differ. Knowing the difference helps you make informed choices about your oral health—especially if you’re experiencing gum-related issues.
At Aurora Dental Care in Seattle, WA, we provide both comprehensive general dentistry and specialized periodontal care. Our Seattle patients benefit from having access to both under one roof, ensuring you receive the right treatment at the right time.
What Is a General Dentist?
Training and Scope of Practice
A general dentist is the primary dental care provider for most patients. After completing dental school, they are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral health.
General dentists in Seattle handle:
- Routine cleanings and exams
- Cavity detection and dental fillings
- Crowns, bridges, and dentures
- Preventive care such as sealants and fluoride treatments
- Cosmetic services like teeth whitening or veneers
- Patient education and oral hygiene instruction
Essentially, your general dentist is your first line of defense against oral health problems, much like a primary care physician is for your overall health.
What Is a Periodontist?
Specialized Training
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease (periodontitis) and the placement of dental implants. After dental school, periodontists complete an additional 2–3 years of advanced training focused specifically on the gums, bone, and connective tissues that support your teeth.
Treatments a Periodontist Provides
At Aurora Dental Care, our Seattle periodontist focuses on:
- Diagnosis and treatment of gum disease
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleanings)
- Periodontal maintenance therapy
- Surgical procedures for gum recession and pocket reduction
- Bone and tissue grafting
- Placement and management of dental implants
- Laser-assisted gum treatments
A periodontist is the specialist you see when gum disease progresses beyond what a general cleaning can manage.
Key Differences Between a General Dentist and a Periodontist
- Focus of Care
- General Dentist: Overall oral health (teeth and gums).
- Periodontist: Specialized in gum health, bone support, and advanced periodontal disease.
- Training
- General Dentist: 4 years of dental school.
- Periodontist: 4 years of dental school + 2–3 years of periodontal residency.
- Treatments Offered
- General Dentist: Preventive and restorative treatments (cleanings, fillings, crowns, etc.).
- Periodontist: Surgical and non-surgical gum treatments, implants, grafting.
- Patient Needs
- General Dentist: Ideal for routine care, cavities, and cosmetic needs.
- Periodontist: Necessary when gum disease is advanced or when specialized procedures are required.
When Should You See a Periodontist in Seattle?
Many patients begin with a general dentist for routine care. Your dentist may recommend a periodontist if you have:
- Bleeding or swollen gums that don’t improve with basic care
- Gum recession or teeth appearing “longer”
- Deep pockets around teeth identified during exams
- Loose teeth due to bone loss
- Advanced periodontitis requiring surgical treatment
- A need for bone or tissue grafts
- Dental implant placement
At Aurora Dental Care, we provide both general and periodontal care in-house, so you don’t need to travel around Seattle for specialized treatment.
Collaboration Between General Dentists and Periodontists
At our Seattle office, general dentists and the periodontist work closely together. This collaboration ensures:
- Early detection of gum disease during routine checkups
- Seamless referrals within the same practice for advanced care
- Comprehensive treatment plans that protect both teeth and gums
- Long-term maintenance to prevent recurrence of gum disease
This team-based approach provides patients with convenience, consistency, and peace of mind.
The Seattle Advantage: Local Periodontal and General Dental Care
Seattle residents know the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle—whether it’s hiking at Discovery Park, kayaking on Lake Union, or enjoying the fresh seafood at Pike Place Market. Oral health plays a big role in that lifestyle, and having access to both a Seattle periodontist and a general dentist in one practice makes it easier than ever to stay healthy.
Aurora Dental Care is conveniently located to serve patients across Seattle, WA, and we pride ourselves on providing specialized care without sacrificing the warm, personalized approach of a neighborhood dental office.
FAQs: Periodontist vs. General Dentist
1. Can my general dentist treat gum disease?
Yes. A general dentist can treat gingivitis and mild gum disease with professional cleanings and hygiene advice. More advanced cases may require a periodontist.
2. Do I always need a referral to see a periodontist in Seattle?
Not necessarily. You can schedule directly with our Seattle periodontist at Aurora Dental Care if you’re experiencing gum issues.
3. Is gum surgery painful?
Modern techniques, including laser therapy, make periodontal surgery much less invasive and more comfortable.
4. Can a general dentist place dental implants?
Some general dentists do, but periodontists are implant specialists with advanced training in bone and gum health.
5. How do I know if I need periodontal treatment?
If you notice bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, it’s time for a periodontal evaluation.
6. How often should I see a periodontist?
Patients with moderate to advanced gum disease may need periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months.
7. Is a periodontist more expensive than a general dentist?
Treatment costs vary based on complexity. Preventive visits with a general dentist are often less expensive, while specialized procedures may cost more but protect your long-term health.
8. Can Aurora Dental Care provide both types of care?
Yes. We provide comprehensive general dentistry as well as access to a skilled
Seattle periodontist.
Conclusion
Both general dentists and periodontists play important roles in your oral health. A general dentist manages your overall dental care, while a periodontist specializes in gum health and advanced procedures like dental implants.
At Aurora Dental Care in Seattle, WA, you don’t have to choose—you have access to both. From routine checkups to advanced periodontitis treatment in Seattle, our team provides comprehensive care in one convenient location.
Take control of your oral health today. Schedule your appointment with Aurora Dental Care to learn whether you need general dentistry, periodontal care, or both—and experience the difference of expert, compassionate treatment right here in Seattle.
