Patient Information:

First Visit

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

• Any notes or x-rays from your dentist if available. Many patients come to the office without a dental referral and they are most welcome as well. In this case, we will discuss what type of x-rays we may need to properly evaluate your dental health. 
• A list of medications you are currently taking (please note that you can print our patient registration and medical history forms from our website.)
• If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.

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

Please notify the office of any medical conditions or concerns (e.g. artificial heart valves, artifical joints such as a knee or hip joint replacement, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication,  diabetes or hypertension, etc).  We will review your medical history in detail with you at your first visit.  Also, an in depth dental health history will be taken and reviewed.

A thorough examination of your dentition (teeth and gums) will be made to evaluate your dental health including your periodontal needs, implant needs, occlusion (bite) and your temporomandibular joint (T.M.J.).

Some patients are sent to us for one specific problem which requires only isolated attention. We will focus on this problem primarily but will still evaluate your entire dentition for the sake of completeness and thoroughness. Our findings will be discussed with you. You may choose to only deal with the primary problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it hurt?
No. The initial examination is essentially pain free. We will be as gentle as possible.

Do I need x-rays?
We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible. If your  dentist has taken recent x-rays which fully display what must be evaluated, we will gladly utilize them. Please request that they be forwarded to us or bring them with you.

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 and implants can vary considerably depending on the type of problems and the complexity 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 a portion of periodontal treatment. The inital examination and consultation fee must be paid at the time of service.  We will submit a claim to your insurance company for possible reimbursement to you for this visit. Please bring all dental and medical benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits for recommended treatment; however, this is not required by most plans.

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. However, if the disease has progressed significantly, it may be more prudent and wise to remove a tooth. Fortunately, with today’s advances in implant therapy, your smile and dentition can be restored to full function and health should you lose one or more teeth. It is our ultimate goal to provide you a dentition (teeth and gums) which will "look good, feel good, allow you to chew well and last a long time".

When will I go back to my general dentist?
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.

What if I don't have gum treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause continuing bone loss and eventual loss of teeth.  If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.