What is a Periodontist?
A Periodontist is a dentist that has completed 3 years additional clinical training and study beyond dental school in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, oral disease and inflammation, and periodontal surgery, including regenerative soft tissue and bone graft procedures and placement of dental implants.
The Role of the Periodontist
The periodontal soft tissue and underlying jaw bone is frequently referred to as the ‘foundation’ of a healthy smile. Restorative dentists rely on a healthy periodontal foundation to support procedures to rebuild your smile, such as crowns, bridges and dental implant restorations.
Dr. Cheria O'Neal completed her periodontal residency at the Medical University of South Carolina where she received her certificate in Periodontics and graduated with honors with a Master of Science in Medical Sciences. She has practiced the specialty of periodontics in the Atlanta area since 2006.
In addition to the diagnosis and treatment of infection and inflammation associated with periodontal disease, Dr. O'Neal provides periodontal surgical services to repair, rebuild and shape bone and soft tissue, including bone and soft tissue grafts, sinus lifts and crown lengthening procedures.
Periodontists also have extensive training in placement of dental implants and the complexities of osseointegration, the process by which a dental implant fuses with the natural jaw bone.
Dr. O'Neal works closely with referring dentists and dental specialists to support the periodontal needs of their patients. When you are referred to our practice for periodontal specialty care, she will communicate her findings and recommendations to both you and your dentist to help you make an informed decision about your oral health.
Your Local Marietta Periodontist
We are honored and appreciative of the trust and confidence that our patients and colleagues place with us. We invite you to Contact the O'Neal Periodontics Team if you have questions about your dental health.