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First visit

patient information

What will happen at my first visit?

Your initial examination will take approximately (45) minutes. Your diagnosis for implant placement and/or periodontal disease is determined from a detailed clinical examination and x-ray interpretation. You will be informed of your diagnosis, necessary treatment to correct the problem, time required, and cost. No treatment will be instituted until the evaluation is completed.

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 also require a list of any medications that you are currently taking.

Please Note: All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment. 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.

Do I need x-rays?

     
 

All patients should have a recent full mouth x-ray series (14-20 films or panoramic radiograph). Should you have a current x-ray at your general dentist office we will be happy to borrow it or we can take one at the consultation appointment.

 
     

Will it hurt?

We will be as gentle as possible. The dental implant and periodontal evaluations can be completed with little or no discomfort.

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 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 dental implants and periodontal treatment. Please bring all medical and dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. We will be happy to contact your carrier to confirm benefits of coverage for you.

  
     

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.

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 on your individual case. All of our patients will be referred back to their general dentist once our active therapy is completed.

Most patients will be required to be on a three month cleaning schedule at your general dentist office following periodontal treatment.

For those patients requiring additional therapy, we will refer you back to your general dentist for any restorative therapy. We may place you on an alternating cleaning schedule until your active therapy is complete.

What if I do not have any gum therapy?

     
 

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own natural teeth.