What To Look for in Your Periodontist, Oral Surgeon, or Implant Surgeon in Santa Clara County

We’re often asked what sets us apart from other clinics and what we think patients should look for in their oral healthcare providers, and we’re happy to give you a roadmap so you can get the best treatment possible. 

At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we offer periodontal treatment and oral surgery, including dental implant surgery, for patients in the Santa Clara area. Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, and the other members of our team, are here to provide you with specialized oral health procedures as well as individualized and dedicated care. 

Periodontist vs. oral surgeon vs. implant surgeon

Usually, your regular dentist is the one who refers you to a periodontist or an oral surgeon. This often happens because your dentist notices something they can’t fix with a regular cleaning or another minor procedure like a cavity filling. 

In many cases, it’s a tooth that needs extraction, an area that requires grafting, or severe gum disease. 

But why would your provider refer you to one type of doctor over the other? First, let’s talk about what they have in common. 

Periodontists and oral surgeons both have several extra years of school beyond those required of regular dentists. They can also both perform surgery and treat illness and injury in the mouth. 

But oral surgeons focus on tooth decay while periodontists are experts in advanced gum disease. If you require wisdom tooth removal or an implant placement in an otherwise healthy mouth, an oral surgeon is usually the best option. 

If you have issues where your gums or jawbone have eroded due to severe gum disease, a periodontist can help.

Implant surgeons can be both oral surgeons and periodontists. Depending on the health of your gums and the health of your teeth and bones, your condition may be more suited to one or the other for implant placement. 

How to find the best dental and gum specialist for your needs

Now that you know the difference between these specialists, how do you know which is the best for your needs? In most cases, your regular dental provider lets you know which type is required for your healthy recovery, but you may also want to do a little research on your own. 

First, talk to the periodontist or oral surgeon at your consultation. Make sure they take the time to explain your situation to you, and consider whether you feel supported when you consult with them. Next, ask a few questions, including: 

• How long have you been practicing in this specialty? 
• Where did you receive your training? 
• What kind of treatment would you recommend for me? 
• What types of technology do you utilize in your office?
• Can you walk me through the recovery process and how you plan to assist me? 

These questions can give you a very good idea of what your provider does for their patients and whether their specialty, focus, and temperament will align with your needs. 

Finally, we recommend looking for someone who makes you feel safe and comfortable. The journey you take together might be a long one, and you want it to be positive. 

Receive exceptional care in Santa Clara County

Our office offers both periodontal and dental implant surgeries as well as many other types of effective oral care. We always hope to provide our patients with the best possible options for healthy mouths, whether the situation calls for an oral surgeon, a periodontist, or both. 

To book an appointment at our office in Campbell, California, give us a call, or book online. We’re here to help.