PATIENT INFORMATION

First Visit

Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:

  • Your referral slip (if supplied) and radiographs (x-rays) from your referring dentist or physician.
  • A list of medications you are currently taking (all 5 columns).  Please note that you can fill out your patient registration and medical history form on our website.

  • If you have dental insurance as a supplement to aid you financially, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.  Our office requires full payment for the new patient exam and any radiographs required.  We will file the insurance for you.

     

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 at this appointment prior to any surgical procedures (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension).

We will complete an in-depth medical, dental, and nutritional health history and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, mobile or loose teeth, bite discrepancies, oral cancer screening, TMJ dysfunction, and other signs of periodontal disease.

Will It Hurt?

We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with minimal or no discomfort.

Do I Need X-Rays?

We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to detect bone loss and disease not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken adequate x-rays, please request that they be diagnostic and forwarded to us.

What Will It Cost?

Since all patients are different and come to us with different stages of bone loss, 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 (extent of bone loss) 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 excellent 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. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits.

Will I Need Surgery?

Not everyone requires periodontal surgery. If detected and treated early, gum disease can be controlled without conventional surgery. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain excellent results.

Can My Teeth Be Saved?

The recent advances in periodontal regeneration allow us to successfully treat and save most teeth.

When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?

Our office and your dentist will work closely together. If restorative dentistry is required, your dentist will be informed and will provide treatment. Alternating regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.

What If I Don't Have Gum Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a chronic, progressive, and  insidious infectious process. Delay can cause you further bone loss,  increased expense, and systemic involvement (heart, lung, kidney). If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your natural teeth and a poor alternative or option.