Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I make an appointment?
We recommend scheduling appointments at least three weeks in advance. However, cancellations will free up appointment times. We will work with you to ensure you are seen for dental emergencies. We will schedule hygiene appointments 6 months in advance.
How often should I get a cleaning?
Regular trips to the dentist are encouraged and we recommend a hygiene appointment at least every six months. Many insurance plans, however, only pay for one hygiene appointment a year. This should be the minimum.
How can I pay for my treatment?
Payments can be made by cash, credit card, money order, cashier's check, Care Credit and personal check. Payment plans are available and are based on the financial situation of the patient. We will work with you on a payment plan that you can afford.
Do you use the latest equipment and techniques?
We keep ourselves up to date regarding equipment and periodontal procedures. You can be sure you will receive state-of-the-art care. Regarding sterilization, we believe that all procedures should be safe as well as comfortable. We use only the latest sterilization techniques.
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
Because periodontal infection grows under your gums, you can have no symptoms at all. More advanced cases can have some of the following symptoms:
• Red, swollen or tender gums.
• Spaces between the teeth
• Tooth Sensitivity to heat/cold Loose or shifting teeth
• Bad breath Missing teeth
• Deep pockets around the teeth
• Gums receding around the teeth
(Longer looking teeth)
Why must I start periodontal disease treatment right away?
This infection eats away at the bone that supports your teeth (leading to tooth loss). If not treated, there can be a number of consequences. Periodontal infection grows in "bursts of activity".
How is periodontal infection treated?
There are a few different treatments for periodontal infection. The goal of treatment is to remove the infectious bacteria from beneath the gums and control its future re-growth. After your initial examination, we will completely explain your different options for treatment.
What are the medical consequences, if I delay treatment?
When periodontal infection gets into the bone around your teeth, it can then then enter the blood stream. From there it travels to other parts of the body and can contribute to medical problems.
Recent research has found that patients with periodontal disease are more than twice as likely to have heart disease and stroke.
Does periodontal treatment hurt?
One of our primary concerns is that you have a comfortable experience during treatment. Towards this end, we offer an extensive array of the latest techniques to minimize discomfort. Many of our patients come back stating they are amazed at how little discomfort they experienced.