You can only become a periodontist after acquiring a basic dental degree, gaining general experience in clinical practice and then undergoing an additional three years of full time intensive university and hospital based training.

During this time the trainee periodontists are taught on all aspects of gum disease, treatment modalities and implant surgery at an advanced level. Only after rigorous written and clinical examinations are they award their specialist qualification.

Periodontist once practicing as a specialist are not expected to do general dentistry and their names are recorded as specialist on the Dental Board of Australia register thus allowing the public to check their credentials.