Most adult tooth loss is due to periodontal (gum) disease. Therefore, in our office, your periodontal health is of the utmost importance. The long-term condition of your teeth and any restorative treatment depends on stable, healthy gums and supporting bone. Each patient’s periodontal diagnosis is unique and we believe strongly in the design and implementation of a program that will most effectively address those individuals’ needs.
Your first hygiene visit will usually consist of a periodontal history and evaluation in which the health and positioning of your gums are determined and recorded. This evaluation combined with your full mouth series of x-rays and other specific tests, provides us with the information necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Also, at this visit, your home care habits will be assessed and discussed and modifications may be suggested. Finally, an initial prophy (cleaning) may be scheduled. Depending on the results of your periodontal evaluation and the amount of calculus (tarter) and stain accumulated, this may be the only hygiene appointment necessary. However, additional hygiene treatments or even a referral to a Periodontist (specialist in gum problems) may be required to get you healthy. A financial estimate will be given for these extended treatment plans.
Your doctor and hygienist will discuss your diagnosis; prognosis and periodontal treatment plan with you. They will make recommendations for the frequency of your subsequent hygiene maintenance visits. This may range from a two-month interval to even a year. Again, this is tailored to your individual needs and may be altered at future visits depending on your progress and current condition. It is important to make this next appointment before you leave in order to insure continuity of care.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, it is important for you to understand that for optimal care and your overall health, it will be essential for you to have on-going continuing care.
All these recommendations are made in order to help achieve your optimum periodontal health, so that you may enjoy your teeth for a lifetime. We realize that many of our patients are covered by insurance plans that place limitations on the amount and frequency of dental care. We, however, care most about YOU and our first consideration has to be what is best for you. We do, therefore, recommend treatment without regard to insurance coverage. Remember, insurance plans are only concerned about the bottom line and do not have your health as their priority. If this raises a financial concern for you, please advise us so that financial arrangements may be discussed before treatment is rendered.
We place great emphasis on prevention and our highly qualified staff takes pride in providing the best available care. We will gladly answer any questions you may have.
