Best Periodontists in Nashville

Choosing a Periodontist in Nashville

Understanding Periodontics

Periodontics is a dental specialty focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and other conditions affecting the gums and structures supporting the teeth.

Periodontists in Nashville offer various treatments including scaling and root planing, gum grafts, dental implants, and regenerative procedures.

Maintaining periodontal health is essential for preserving teeth, preventing bone loss, and supporting overall oral health.

The Periodontal Landscape in Nashville

Nashville boasts a diverse array of highly qualified periodontists, offering patients access to advanced periodontal care and treatments.

When selecting a periodontist in Nashville, consider factors such as qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and the range of services offered.

Choosing a Periodontist in Nashville

Understanding Periodontics

Definition and scope of periodontics

• Periodontics is a dental specialty focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease and other conditions affecting the gums and structures supporting the teeth
• Importance of periodontal health for overall oral well-being

Common periodontal procedures

• Scaling and root planing
• Gum grafts
• Dental implants
• Periodontal plastic surgery

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Periodontist

Qualifications and Credentials

• Board certification
• Educational background (e.g., Dr. Billy Akin's education at Augusta University Medical College of Georgia)
• Continuing education and specializations (e.g., Dr. Peyman Raissi's additional training in implant dentistry)

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice
• Range of periodontal services offered
• Specializations within periodontics (e.g., Dr. Mark Whaley's expertise in cosmetic dentistry and sleep medicine dentistry)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Overall star rating (e.g., many periodontists in Nashville have 5-star ratings)
• Number of reviews (e.g., Dr. Mark Whitefield has 101 reviews)
• Specific patient feedback and testimonials

Technology and Techniques

• Use of advanced periodontal treatments (e.g., laser dentistry offered by Dr. Michael Vaughan)
• Modern equipment and facilities

Location and Accessibility

• Proximity to your home or workplace in Nashville
• Office hours and availability for appointments
• Emergency periodontal care options

The Selection Process

Research and Shortlisting

• Utilize online resources and directories
• Seek recommendations from general dentists or other healthcare providers
• Consider periodontists affiliated with reputable institutions (e.g., Dr. Billy Akin's affiliation with Vanderbilt University Medical Center)

Initial Consultations

• Schedule meetings with potential periodontists
• Prepare questions about their approach, experience, and treatment options
• Assess communication style and patient-doctor rapport

Evaluating Treatment Plans

• Compare proposed treatment options and timelines
• Understand the rationale behind recommended procedures
• Discuss potential outcomes and risks

Considering Financial Aspects

• Review cost estimates for proposed treatments
• Inquire about insurance acceptance and payment plans
• Balance cost with quality of care and expertise

Top-Rated Periodontists in Nashville

Dr. Mark Whitefield

Highest-rated with most reviews

• 5.0-star rating with 101 reviews

Education and Background

• University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis (Medical School, 1995)
• Lipscomb Clinic (Undergraduate School, 1991)

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Dr. James Fili

High rating with significant reviews

• 4.9-star rating with 106 reviews

Education and Background

• University of Iowa / College of Dentistry (Residency Hospital, 1997)
• NYU College of Dentistry (Undergraduate School, 1990)

Contact Information

• Phone: (615) 297-8973

Dr. Michael Vaughan

Perfect rating

• 5.0-star rating with 12 reviews

Education and Background

• University of Tennessee (Medical School)
• Vanderbilt University (Undergraduate School)
• Vanderbilt University Hospital (Residency Hospital, 1993)

Areas of Expertise

• Periodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Sedation Dentistry
• Laser Dentistry
• Emergency Dentistry

Dr. Jason Primm

Solid rating with significant reviews

• 4.6-star rating with 43 reviews

Education

• University of Tennessee College of Dentistry (Medical School)

Contact Information

• Phone: (615) 370-9486

Dr. Billy Akin

Perfect rating

• 5.0-star rating with 2 reviews

Education and Background

• Augusta University Medical College of Georgia (Residency Hospital, 1977)
• University of Tn Health Sciences Center (1973)
• Vanderbilt University (Undergraduate School, 1970)

Hospital Affiliation

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Contact Information

• Phone: (615) 373-0030

Additional Resources for Finding Periodontists in Nashville

Professional Organizations and Directories

American Academy of Periodontology

• Official website with a 'Find a Periodontist' tool
• Information on periodontal health and treatments

Tennessee Dental Association

• Local professional organization for dentists
• May provide referrals or additional information on periodontists

Online Review Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive profiles of periodontists in Nashville
• Patient reviews and ratings

Yelp and Google Reviews

• Additional patient feedback and experiences
• Photos of dental offices and staff

Recommendations from Healthcare Professionals

Primary Care Dentists

• Can provide referrals to trusted periodontists
• May have insights on specialists' expertise

Local Dental Schools

• Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville
• May offer periodontal services or recommendations