what to Expect at your first appointment
Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:
- Your referral slip and any x-rays from your referring dentist
- A list of medications you are currently taking
- If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment
Please notify the office if you have a medical condition or concern prior to surgery (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart conditions requiring pre-medication, uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure, and if you are taking “bone pills/injections”)
We will complete an in-depth medical and dental health history and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, loose teeth, bite, oral cancer screening, assessment of your jaw joints and other signs of periodontal disease.
Scheduling
At North York Periodontal Centre we will schedule your appointment as promptly as possible. Please allow approximately 60 minutes for your initial visit. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
We try to stay on schedule to minimize waiting at the time of your appointment. Referral of emergency patients can cause delays to the schedule, and your understanding and patience are very much appreciated.
Will It Hurt
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.
Do I Need X-Rays?
We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease and bone loss not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us. If you don’t have recent “x-rays” available, updated radiographs will be taken in our office to assist in the diagnosis and treatment planning.
What Will It Cost?
Since all patients are different, we 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, 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 treatment goals
Will My Insurance Cover The Cost?
Dental insurance policies often cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits; 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. Other mild forms of disease can be treated non-surgically. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation.
Can My Teeth Be Saved?
The primary goal of periodontal therapy is to retain teeth. The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth.
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 you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.