A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating periodontal disease, gum disease, and gingivitis. Periodontists are also experts in oral inflammation and dental implants. As a periodontist, you typically handle more serious dental issues and are an expert at helping patients with complex dental histories. Your responsibilities are to diagnose and treat severe gum problems and perform dental surgery. Other duties include the placement, maintenance, and repair of dental implants. In this role, you perform many dental implant consultations and take X-rays as necessary.