Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What will happen at my Initial visit?
Your initial (first) visit to our Practice will involve co-discovery of your overall oral health findings and needs. Co-discovery allows you to provide Dr. Thomas-Moses with all your dental history and concerns and in turn provides her the opportunity to inform you of your oral health diagnosis, needs and treatment discussions to help you thoroughly understand those needs and options for treatment. To prepare our Practice for your arrival, please provide the following on the day of your appointment, or in advance, by downloading and completing our patient registration forms.
- Photo ID.
- Any available referral slips and radiographs (x-rays) from your referring dentist.
- A list of medications you are currently taking.
- All dental and medical insurance cards that may apply.
Please notify the office if you have medical conditions or concerns prior to any visit (e.g., artificial heart valves, surgically placed heart stents and/or joint replacement to include hip, knee and shoulder which may require pre-medication prior to dental visits).
With permission, Dr. Thomas-Moses will work closely with your referring general dentist to thoroughly discuss her findings and the specific details of your future care.
Will it hurt?
We will always be most gentle and considerate by being attentive to all your personal needs and desires. The periodontal examination can be completed with little or no discomfort.
Do I need radiographs (x-rays)?
In order to properly diagnose periodontal disease, current periodontal radiographs (x-rays) required. The specific type of radiographs we will need for your examination are called an FMX (full mouth series of radiographs). If there are any TMJ concerns or if we are discussing implant placement, other types of radiographs, such as a CBCT scan) may become necessary. If your referring dentist has taken radiographs, you may request that they be forwarded to us e-mail @ [email protected] or by mail.
What will treatment cost?
Since all patient needs are different, Dr. Thomas-Moses must complete a thorough examination before establishing your treatment plan and the fee for your care. The fee for treatment can vary considerably, depending on your type of needs 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 your overall needs and goals.
Will my Insurance cover the cost?
Dental insurance policies often cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all dental and medical benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. As an out-of-network dental provider, we require payment in full at the time of the visit. We will then file your dental insurance on your behalf with a request that any reimbursement be sent directly to the subscriber. Upon request, we will submit a predetermination to your dental insurance. Please note some of our procedures may be covered under your medical insurance. We do not participate with any dental/medical insurance plans, pre-pay plans, Medicare/Medicaid or discount plans.
Will I need surgery?
Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. If treated early, periodontal (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 your treatment goals.
Can my teeth be saved?
Recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat and maintain most teeth.
When will I go back to my general dentist?
Our office and your Dentist will work closely together. If restorations (crowns and fillings) are indicated, your Dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your Dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance and you may be placed on rotation between your general dentist and your periodontist to control your periodontal disease. Please understand that our periodontal maintenance is a different cleaning from the one you receive from your general dentist and is aimed toward maintaining the stability of your periodontal health.
What if I don’t have Periodontal (gum) treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive, often painless, infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss, tooth loss and more expense. Oral health problems can adversely affect one’s ability to maintain optimal nutrition, self-image, social interactions, mental health and overall physical health. Untreated periodontal disease may increase your risk of several other health complications, including stroke, diabetes and heart disease. Gum disease has even been linked with problems in pregnancy and dementia.