First Visit
Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:
- Your referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist.
- A list of medications you are currently taking (please note that you can fill out your patient registration and medical history form on our website.)
- If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.
Please Note: All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment.
Please notify the office if you have a medical condition or concern prior to surgery (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension).
We will complete an in-depth medical and dental health history and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, loose teeth, bite, oral cancer screening, TMJ, and other signs of periodontal disease.
Will It Hurt?
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.
Do I Need X-Rays?
We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to clinically evaluate things which we cannot see like supporting bone levels around your teeth that are underneath your gum tissue. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us. If current x-rays are not available we will take them in our office.
What Will It Cost?
Since all patients are different, your periodontist must complete your examination before establishing your treatment plan and the fee for care. The fee for periodontal treatment can vary considerably depending on the type of problems and the complexity and length of treatment. An approximate fee can usually be determined at the initial visit; but on occasion, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed
before the final treatment plan can be established. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals
Will My Insurance Cover The Cost?
Dental insurance policies often cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all medical and dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. As a service to our patients we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits; however, this is not required by most plans. Our treatment plan coordinator is an expert at engaging your insurance company to ensure that your coverage is appropriately utilized.
Will I Need Surgery?
Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. If treated early, gum disease can be controlled without surgery. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals
Can My Teeth Be Saved?
The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth.
When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?
Our office and your dentist will work closely together to advise you when it is appropriate to see your dentist. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.
What If I Don’t Have Gum Treatment?
Periodontal disease is a silent disease that is a progressive, painless infection. Quite often patients with periodontal disease don’t present with any discomfort whatsoever. Delay of treatment will very likely cause further bone loss around teeth that may cause a compromise final results in addition to causing more expense for treatment. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.
Note moderate levels of periodontal disease and bone loss