Appointment RequestSalt Lake City, UT Periodontist
Get to Know Dr. Al Long
Originally from Holladay, UT, Dr. Al Long has been part of the world of dentistry for two decades, and he always looks for ways to improve his skills and expertise. The best part of his job is being able to build relationships with both patients and team members, as one of his main goals is to have a positive impact on the lives of others. Keep reading to learn more about his background and education before visiting our office.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Periodontist?
Dr. Long first decided he wanted to become a periodontist after he was hired as a surgical assistant for a periodontics office. He ended up working there for five years and fell in love with the field. The team members he worked alongside became like family, and he developed long-term relationships with many of his patients. He appreciated the impactful service they were providing and knew that he wanted to have a career as a dental care provider.
Education & Work Experience
Dr. Long has been performing periodontal surgery for the last 7 years and has worked in the dental field for 19 years. He was a surgical assistant in a periodontics office for five years as he attended the University of Utah for his undergraduate degree. Dr. Long received a dental school scholarship through the United States Navy and attended Virginia Commonwealth University for his dental doctorate. Following dental school, he completed a 1-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry program in Oceanside, CA. He then completed a 3-year periodontics residency program in Bethesda, MD and also received a master’s degree. Dr. Long worked as a periodontist for the United States Navy and served for a total of 8 years on active duty. Today, he is a board-certified periodontal and implant surgeon with the American Board of Periodontology.
Dr. Long has received numerous awards throughout his training and work as a periodontist. Some of the highlights include:
- “Top Resident Award” #1 out of 7 ranking during AEGD residency program
- “Chief of the Dental Corps Award for Excellence” #1 out of 30 ranking during periodontics residency program
- 1st Place Award for gingival grafting presentations at 3 dental conferences (Hinman meeting, Calif. Dental Assoc. Meeting, Military Symposium)
Over the years, Dr. Long has undergone extensive continuing education to remain updated on the latest advancements in the field. He is also an active member of several professional organizations, such as the:
- American Dental Association
- Utah Dental Association
- American Academy of Periodontology
- American Board of Periodontology
In the Media
Dr. Long has multiple academic publications in professional dental journals:
- Dynamic Navigation in Implant Therapy and Beyond
- Prevalence of General Dentists who Screen for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
If you don’t find him at the office, Dr. Long is spending time with his beautiful wife and their four wonderful children. Together, they enjoy being outdoors, traveling, and having Friday pizza and movie nights. Whenever he’s free, his hobbies include hiking, playing golf, practicing photography, and hanging out with his loved ones. One fun fact about him is that he’s been to the North Pole!