Choosing the right periodontist is one of the most important decisions you can make for your long-term oral health. Whether you are dealing with gum disease, gum recession, missing teeth, or have been told you need dental implants, the experience, training, and technology of your periodontist can dramatically affect your outcome.
If you live in the St. Louis area, you have many options. Understanding what truly separates an exceptional periodontist from an average one can help you feel confident about your decision and ensure you receive the highest level of care possible. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best periodontist in the St. Louis region, with specific insight into what patients should look for and why those factors matter.
Start With Specialized Training and Credentials
Not all dentists are periodontists. While all periodontists are dentists, a periodontist completes several additional years of advanced education focused exclusively on the gums, supporting bone, and dental implant placement.
This specialized training is critical when treating advanced periodontal disease, gum recession, bone loss, or complex implant cases. A periodontist has in-depth knowledge of how the gums and jawbone function together and how disease or tooth loss can affect overall oral health.
When researching a provider, look for:
- Board certification or formal periodontal specialty training
- Ongoing continuing education
- Membership in respected professional organizations
Dr. Justin M. Schlaikjker has practiced dentistry since 2011 and completed advanced periodontal training, allowing him to diagnose and treat all stages of gum disease and perform surgical procedures such as dental implants, bone grafting, and gum grafts with precision and confidence.
Look for Experience Treating Complex Cases
Experience matters, especially when dealing with advanced periodontal conditions or tooth replacement. While some general dentists treat mild gum disease, complex cases often require surgical expertise and advanced planning.
An experienced periodontist should be comfortable managing:
- Moderate to advanced periodontitis
- Gum recession and exposed tooth roots
- Bone loss related to tooth loss or infection
- Dental implant placement and implant complications
- Full-arch solutions such as All-on-4 dental implants
Practices that have served their community for many years tend to develop strong referral relationships with general dentists and earn trust through consistent outcomes. A long-standing reputation is often a good indicator of reliability and clinical skill.
Dr. Schlaikjker’s practice has served patients throughout St. Louis, Sunset Hills, and surrounding communities for more than a decade, treating both routine and highly complex periodontal cases under one roof.
Advanced Technology Makes a Meaningful Difference
Modern periodontics has advanced significantly, and technology plays a major role in improving precision, comfort, and healing time. When evaluating a periodontist, ask about the technology they use and how it benefits patients.
Key technologies to look for include:
Laser Periodontal Therapy (LANAP®)
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy allows for minimally invasive treatment of gum disease with less discomfort, reduced bleeding, and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
3D Imaging and Digital Planning
Advanced imaging helps periodontists visualize bone levels, nerve placement, and implant positioning for safer, more predictable outcomes.
Robotic-Assisted Implant Surgery
The Yomi® Robotic System represents one of the most advanced tools in implant dentistry, allowing for real-time guidance during implant placement. This level of precision can reduce surgical time, minimize tissue trauma, and support faster recovery.
Justin M. Schlaikjker’s practice is the first in Missouri to use the Yomi Robotic System for dental implant placement, demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation and patient safety.
Comprehensive In-House Care Is a Major Advantage
One of the most overlooked factors when choosing a periodontist is whether care can be completed entirely in-house. Some patients are referred between multiple providers for imaging, surgery, and restoration planning, which can complicate treatment and extend timelines.
A comprehensive periodontal practice should be able to provide:
- Non-surgical and surgical gum disease treatment
- Dental implant placement
- Bone grafting and sinus lifts
- Gum grafting and cosmetic periodontal procedures
- Pre-prosthetic surgery
Having everything performed by one experienced specialist ensures continuity of care, clearer communication, and better overall outcomes.
At Schlaikjker, DDS, MS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, procedures including periodontal surgery and dental implant placement are completed on-site, eliminating the need for outside referrals and simplifying care for patients throughout the St. Louis area.
Patient-Centered Care Should Be a Priority
Periodontal issues can be stressful, especially when patients are facing surgery or tooth loss. A great periodontist understands this and prioritizes patient comfort, education, and transparency.
Look for a practice that emphasizes:
- Personalized treatment plans
- Clear explanations of diagnosis and options
- A non-judgmental approach
- Comfort-focused care environments
Patients should feel informed, empowered, and supported throughout their treatment journey, not rushed or pressured into decisions.
Dr. Schlaikjker’s philosophy centers on patient-focused care, taking time to explain conditions, treatment options, and preventive strategies so patients can make confident, informed decisions about their oral health.
Strong Reviews and Community Reputation Matter
Online reviews can provide valuable insight into what it’s actually like to be a patient at a periodontal practice. Look beyond star ratings and read reviews that mention outcomes, comfort, communication, and professionalism.
Positive patterns to watch for include:
- Patients feeling comfortable and informed
- Successful treatment outcomes
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Respect for patient time and concerns
A strong reputation within the St. Louis dental community also indicates trust from both patients and referring dentists.
Schlaikjker, DDS, MS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is highly reviewed and recognized for its professionalism, advanced care, and patient experience throughout the greater St. Louis area. Click here to read some of our Google reviews.
Insurance and Financing Should Be Transparent
Periodontal care is an investment in long-term health. A reputable practice should help patients understand insurance coverage and offer flexible financing options when needed.
Look for a practice that:
- Accepts multiple insurance plans
- Provides clear cost estimates
- Offers financing solutions such as CareCredit® or similar programs
This transparency helps patients move forward with necessary care without unnecessary financial stress.
Why Choosing the Right Periodontist Impacts More Than Your Smile
Periodontal disease has been linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Tooth loss can affect nutrition, speech, and self-confidence. Choosing the right specialist is not just about treating symptoms, but about protecting your overall health and quality of life.
An experienced periodontist can:
- Preserve natural teeth whenever possible
- Prevent further bone and tissue loss
- Restore function and aesthetics
- Provide long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes
Finding the Best Periodontist in St. Louis
When choosing a periodontist in the St. Louis area, prioritize advanced training, proven experience, modern technology, comprehensive in-house care, and a patient-centered approach. These factors work together to deliver safer procedures, better outcomes, and a more comfortable experience.
Schlaikjker, DDS, MS Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in Sunset Hills offers all of these qualities, making the practice a trusted choice for patients seeking expert periodontal and implant care throughout St. Louis and surrounding communities. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more.