The rule of thumb is that you see the dentist twice a year. That is great for cleanings and fillings. However, if you are in a more serious situation, like gum disease, or need dental implants, then you will want to visit a periodontist. In addition, there are several other factors to consider that increase the need to see a periodontist.

For example, smokers and people who chew tobacco are at higher risk for periodontal disease. Other conditions that can make you more vulnerable to periodontal disease include osteoporosis, diabetes, respiratory issues, and heart disease. All of these reasons make it essential to find the best periodontist in your area. Therefore, if you are around Idaho Falls, that means Dr. Moulton.

Tips For Choosing Your Periodontist

When you need a periodontist, how do you know what to be looking for? The following tips should help you to get started.

• How long have they been practicing?
  • Dr. Moulton has been practicing for 19 years as a dentist and 13 years as a specialist in periodontics and dental implants.
• What insurance do they accept?
  • We work with all types of insurance and are in-network for Delta Dental. However, we are not a provider for Medicare/Medicaid.
• Do they use a conservative or aggressive treatment philosophy?
  • Dr. Moulton prefers a conservative treatment approach that is minimally invasive. In addition, he embraces emerging technologies.
• What are pain management and anesthesia options?
  • We offer nitrous, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia through Mountain View Hospital.
• What are their credentials and training?
  • Dr. Moulton has had a lot of training and earned several credentials. They include the Advanced General Dentistry 1 Year Certificate, Comprehensive Restorative Dentistry 1 Year Certificate, Periodontics and Implant Surgery 3 Year Masters of Science Degree.
• Where are they located and what hours are they open?
  • You can find us inside Creekside Plaza. In other words, we are just off of Sunnyside Road and next to the Idaho Kidney Center.
• What are your medication and pain-relief options?
  • Over the counter medications to RX pain medications as indicated.
• What are your emergency care options?
  • We are available for emergency care to established patients and available for phone calls for emergency consultation for all patients.

What To Expect At Your First Visit

The first visit to a periodontist should be similar to the first visit you make to any doctor or other health professional. You will review your medical history, have an evaluation of your condition, and a treatment plan will be created. In order to make this process as quick and smooth as possible, there are some things you should do. Come prepared with information about the medications that you are taking. This includes any over-the-counter medicine or nutritional supplements. During a physical exam, we’ll take a look at your teeth and gums, obviously. In addition, we may also examine your head, neck, jaw, mouth, and throat. X-rays may also be necessary.

Periodontal Procedures

There are several ways that periodontists can treat patients. These can range from early-stage treatments like deep cleanings to more intense surgical treatments. Dr. Moulton provides a variety of services for patients. Here’s a quick look at what we can do for you.

• Dental implant treatment — Implants offer an excellent solution to one or more missing teeth. Implants look very natural, feel secure, and most importantly, prevent bone loss in the affected area. During these procedures, an artificial tooth root is inserted into your jaw. And it binds with your jawbone. After that has healed, an artificial tooth will be attached to the implant post.
• Root coverage grafting — This is where we take gum tissue from your palate to cover an exposed root. Dr. Moulton specializes in caring for patients who need root coverage grafts. In fact, it is one of his favorite treatments to offer patients. Depending on the type and severity of your specific periodontal defect, there are several different types of root coverage treatments available.
• LANAP — Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure is a less invasive approach to periodontal pocket reduction, yet proves to have the same outcome (or better in many cases) as traditional periodontal surgery. Dr. Moulton was the first dentist in Idaho certified to provide LANAP by use of the Periolase Laser. Keep in mind that this is not the best treatment for every patient.
• Bone grafting — This is when a piece of bone is taken from one part of your jaw (or even another body part) and transplanted to your jawbone. In some cases, artificial bone can also be used. It may take a few months before the transplant is ready for a dental implant.
• All-on-4 treatment — This minimally invasive treatment involves four dental implants to attach a new set of permanent teeth. These implants will be designed specifically for this purpose and will not require bone grafting.
• Sedation — Sedation is a medical procedure for administering sedative medication. Typically, this eliminates the anxiety of patients regarding their dental procedures.
• Denture stabilization — Denture stabilization is when the dental implants are inserted in the jawbone and then attach to dentures to stabilize them. This is different from normal dentures that sit on top of the gums and don’t have rooted support inside your mouth.
• Pinhole surgical technique — This is a minimally invasive alternative treatment for gingival recession. The difference between this and grafting is that this technique starts with the creation of a pinhole in your receding gum tissue. Then a device is placed into the hole.

Ridge Crest Dental Implants & Periodontics

Above all, you deserve the best possible dental care. It’s our mission to make that happen. Dr. Moulton and his team are dedicated to helping the patients of their referring dentists live happier and healthier lives. We strive to achieve this through improved oral health, cosmetic improvement through periodontal surgery, and restoration of smiles and confidence through dental implant care. For more information, give us a call, fill out this form, or you can check us out on social media. We’re on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.