Best Periodontists in Eugene

Introduction to Periodontics in Eugene, Oregon

Definition and Scope of Periodontics

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and other conditions affecting the gums and structures supporting the teeth. In Eugene, Oregon, periodontists play a significant role in maintaining the oral health of the community.

Periodontal health is integral to overall oral wellness, as it directly impacts the stability of teeth and the health of the surrounding tissues. Common periodontal treatments include scaling and root planing, gum grafts, and dental implant procedures.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Periodontist

Selecting an experienced periodontist is essential for receiving high-quality, specialized care for gum health. In Eugene, there are several qualified professionals who offer advanced periodontal treatments.

Proper periodontal treatment can lead to long-term benefits such as improved oral health, prevention of tooth loss, and potential reduction in risks associated with systemic health conditions linked to periodontal disease.

Overview of Periodontal Services in Eugene

Eugene offers a range of periodontal services, from preventive care to advanced surgical procedures. Patients can find specialists who provide treatments such as periodontal maintenance, gum surgery, and dental implant placement.

The city hosts several well-regarded periodontal practices. Based on the provided data, there are at least five periodontists in Eugene, including Dr. Andrew Dow, Dr. Mercedes Del Valle, and Dr. Robert Gemmell, who offer specialized periodontal care.

Navigating the Periodontist Selection Process in Eugene

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Periodontist

Qualifications and Educational Background

• Review of educational institutions (e.g., University of Colorado, OHSU, University of Iowa)
• Consideration of additional certifications and fellowships

Experience and Specializations

• Evaluation of years in practice
• Assessment of additional dental specialties offered (e.g., endodontics, prosthodontics)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Analysis of star ratings on Healthgrades
• Consideration of the number of patient reviews

Language and Communication

• Importance of language options (e.g., English, Spanish)
• Evaluation of doctor-patient communication based on reviews

Understanding Healthgrades Ratings and Reviews

Interpreting the Star Rating System

• Explanation of the 5-star rating scale
• Comparison of ratings among Eugene periodontists

Analyzing Patient Feedback

• Importance of reading individual patient reviews
• Identifying patterns in positive and negative feedback

Considering the Number of Reviews

• Relevance of review count in assessing reliability
• Comparing review counts among local periodontists

Utilizing Additional Information Sources

Professional Associations and Memberships

• Significance of memberships (e.g., American Dental Association)
• Relevance of specialized periodontal associations

Hospital Affiliations

• Consideration of hospital connections (e.g., Sacred Heart Medical Center-Riverbend)
• Implications of hospital affiliations for complex cases

Top-Ranked Periodontists in Eugene

Dr. Andrew Dow

Profile Overview

• Educational background: University of Colorado Advanced Periodontal Therapies Program, Oregon Health & Sciences University School of Dentistry
• Star rating: 4.0 out of 5 based on 27 reviews
• Languages: English and Spanish
• Contact information: (541) 654-5482

Specializations

• Periodontics
• General Dentistry

Dr. Mercedes Del Valle

Profile Overview

• Educational background: University of Iowa College of Dentistry, University of Michigan
• Star rating: 4.4 out of 5 based on 32 reviews
• Languages: English and Spanish
• Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD)

Specializations

• Periodontics
• Multiple dental specialties including Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Prosthodontics

Dr. Robert Gemmell

Profile Overview

• Professional associations: Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Oregon Dental Association
• Star rating: 4.2 out of 5 based on 5 reviews
• Language: English

Specializations

• Periodontics
• Endodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Cosmetic Dentistry

Additional Periodontists in Eugene

Dr. Dennis Perala

• Specializes in Periodontics
• Star rating: 3.1 out of 5 based on 16 reviews
• Languages: English and Spanish
• Contact information: (541) 746-7630

Dr. Heather Behnert

• Specializes in Periodontics
• No current star rating or review count available
• Language: English
• Contact information: (541) 607-0897

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Periodontist in Eugene

Utilizing Online Platforms

Healthgrades website

• Access detailed profiles of periodontists
• Review patient ratings and feedback
• Compare qualifications and specializations

Other reputable dental review websites

• Explore additional patient experiences
• Cross-reference information from multiple sources

Consultations and Second Opinions

Importance of initial consultations

• Assess compatibility with the periodontist
• Discuss treatment plans and options
• Evaluate the clinic's environment and technology

Benefits of seeking multiple professional opinions

• Gain diverse perspectives on treatment approaches
• Ensure comprehensive understanding of your periodontal condition
• Make an informed decision based on various expert inputs

Verifying Credentials and Insurance Compatibility

How to check periodontist credentials

• Verify educational background (e.g., Dr. Andrew Dow's University of Colorado and OHSU education)
• Check professional affiliations (e.g., Dr. Robert Gemmell's membership in ADA and ODA)
• Confirm state licensing and any additional certifications

Tips for ensuring insurance coverage and discussing financial options

• Contact insurance provider to verify coverage for periodontal treatments
• Inquire about in-network status of preferred periodontists
• Discuss payment plans or financing options with the dental office