Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:
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 your appointment (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 review and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, an increase or decrease in gingival tissues, loose teeth, bite irregularities, and other signs of periodontal disease. In addition, we will perform an oral cancer screening and an evaluation for TMJ dysfunction.
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.
We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible to the naked eye. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us.
If dental implants are to be discussed as part of your therapy, an additional form of x-ray may be needed so that we may adequately evaluate your maxillary and mandibular jaw anatomy. Our practice utilizes the ICAT 3-dimensional CT Scanner which aids in the exact determination of your bony structure. It also allows us to see the precise location of critical structures such as nerves and the maxillary sinuses. This type of image provides us with much more detail than classical 2-dimensional x-rays.
Since all patients are different, we 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. Often times, a number of treatment options will be available to you, each with a different associated fee. We will also consult with your treating restorative dentist to ensure that your entire dental team is working together to meet your needs and goals.
We work with all insurance carriers to help maximize your coverage. Our office will assist you in determining your exact coverage pertaining to periodontal and implant therapy. Since each insurance company and policy is unique, we welcome our patients to contact us at anytime to review your particular plan benefits.
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.
The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat many teeth previously deemed hopeless.
Our office and your Dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed your Dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your Dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.
Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. Should you choose to delay recommended periodontal therapy, it becomes more and more likely that this painless disease could cost you your teeth. Typically, the more bone or tooth loss that occurs, the more procedures and expense is involved.