Periodontal assistants perform many tasks to help periodontists during dental procedures. They may perform both clerical and clinical tasks. Periodontal assistants often take X-rays, sterilize equipment, make casts of teeth and assist the periodontist during gum surgery. Clerical tasks include: making appointments, updating patient charts and in some states administering local anesthetics.
Because there is no specific program for a periodontal assisting, a few different routes exist for becoming one. Some people learn on the job at a private dental office. The Dental Assisting National Board offers a certified dental assistant certification that provides a solid knowledge base in dentistry. To specialize in periodontics specifically, on-the-job training at a periodontist's office would be required.
Periodontists first train as general dentists. They then go on through further education specializing in gum health and surgery. They must complete a 36-month program that involves both lecture and clinical courses. They assist in performing surgeries and may even perform surgeries under supervision in their final year of the program.
Periodontists treat gum disease with a number of procedures, including: root planing and scaling, soft tissue grafts, pocket reduction and crown lengthening. They also perform dental implants, which may entail performing a bone graft in some cases.
Periodontist researchers complete specialized schooling that focuses on research and teaching. Before individuals begin this program they must have earned a master's degree and completed specialized training in periodontics. Because the program focuses on research, students must complete original research during the program. This research counts as their dissertation.
Professors not only teach classes and advise students, but they also perform procedures and may also work for a private practice part time. Professors usually continue to do research and seek publication in professional journals for their work.
Pay for these three fields vary depending on location and years of experience. According to Payscale.com, periodontists earn between $104,147 to $199,659 annually. Periodontal assistants earn, on average $12.44 to $17.13 per hour. Periodontal professors and researchers earn anywhere from roughly $60,000 to more than $120,000 per year.
Because periodontal professionals specialize in a specific field, the demand for these professionals is lower than for general dentists and dental practitioners. Look into the area you hope to practice or teach before you complete training to ensure that the area needs your profession. If not, decide whether relocating is an option, and research areas you would like to practice in.