What's the difference between a periodontist and a dentist? A periodontist is a dentist who completed an additional 3+ years of residency training specifically in gum tissue, jawbone, and dental implant surgery. While general dentists provide broad care, periodontists focus exclusively on the structures that support your teeth. At Texas Dental Implant Center in Houston, Dr. Michel Azer is a board-certified periodontist.
Training Comparison
General dentist: 4 years of dental school. Covers the full scope of dental care. Some place implants after continuing education courses (weekend workshop to longer certificate programs).
Periodontist: 4 years of dental school + 3+ year residency focused on gum disease, bone surgery, and implants. University medical center training on complex cases.
Board certification: After residency, a periodontist can pursue Diplomate status from the American Board of Periodontology. Not all periodontists have this — it's extra verified expertise.
Dr. Azer completed his periodontics residency at Boston University (CAGS + MSD). He holds Diplomate status from the American Board of Periodontology.
Why It Matters for Dental Implants
Dental implant surgery is a bone and gum tissue procedure. The implant goes into jawbone. Gum tissue heals around it. If bone is insufficient, grafting is needed. If gum disease is present, it must be treated first.
These are exactly what periodontists spend their residency on. This is why many general dentists refer their implant patients to a periodontist. Studies show implants placed by specialists have higher long-term success rates.
When to See Each Provider
General dentist: routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, cosmetic dentistry, overall oral health.
Periodontist: dental implants, gum disease, bone grafting, gum surgery, gum recession, complex cases, second opinions on implant candidacy.
Many patients see both — general dentist for routine care, periodontist for implants or gum disease. The two providers coordinate care.
Do I Need a Referral?
No. You can schedule directly with Texas Dental Implant Center. Many of Dr. Azer's patients do come through referrals from general dentists, but it's not required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a periodontist more expensive for implants?
Not necessarily. TDIC offers specialist-placed implants starting at $3,500 — competitive with general practices.
Can a general dentist place implants?
Legally, yes. The difference is training depth: 3+ years of surgical residency vs continuing education courses.
What does "board-certified" mean?
The periodontist passed the rigorous exam from the American Board of Periodontology. An additional credential verifying expertise.
Do periodontists do cleanings?
Deep cleanings for gum disease, yes. Routine cleanings are handled by your general dentist.
Want specialist-level care? Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Azer — over 1,000 implants placed.