Periodontic Overview
A periodontist is a specialist in the placement of dental implants, and experts in the diagnosis and treatment of gum and bone infections. We have completed 4 years of college, 4 years of dental school, 2 years of full time periodontal residency, as well as completing the task of board certification. |
Board certification is not required to practice periodontics. Currently, approximately 30% of periodontists nationwide are board certified. It is a 2 part examination process. This first stage is an 8 hr written examination taken at least one year after graduation which evaluates current knowledge of the field of periodontics. If part I is passed, the candidate has the opportunity to present slides of actual patients he or she has treated before a board of examiners. The examiners can ask any medical or dental question they wish, and the examinee must demonstrate expert clinical knowledge and skill to pass and become "board certified". Both Dr. Millard and Dr. Fleming have been board certified for the last 12 years. To stay "board certified", the CE requirement is much greater.
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What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth. Currently dental implants have a 95% 30 year success rate in the upper jaw and a 98% 30 year success rate in the lower jaw. Implants look and feel like natural teeth, and are not taken in and out. If you have bone loss, you may still be a candidate for dental implants, as there are many techniques available to recreate missing bone and gum tissue. Dental implants have many advantages over traditional bridgework or partial dentures. Be sure to ask Dr. Millard or Dr. Fleming if they might be right for you. |
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