PATIENT INFO

First Visit

What can I expect the first time I visit a periodontist?

  • During your first visit, Dr Mehta will review your complete medical and dental history with you.
  • It's extremely important for your periodontist, Dr Mehta to know if you are taking any medications or are being treated for any condition that can affect your periodontal care.
  • A thorough examination to measure for bone loss, loose teeth, bite, oral cancer screening, TMJ, and other signs of periodontal disease.
  • During a periodontal examination, Dr Mehta will gently place a small measuring instrument called a periodontal probe in the pocket between the teeth and gums to measure pocket depths and help make a diagnosis. Probing depths measuring 1-3mm are usually considered healthy. 4-5mm may indicate mild periodontitis, 5-6mm suggest moderate periodontitis, and 7mm or greater may indicate severe periodontitis. This helps your periodontist assess the health of your gums.
  • In addition to probing depth measurements, X-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of the bone supporting the teeth.
  • Dr Mehta will also examine your gums, check to see if there is any gum line recession, assess how your teeth fit together when you bite and check your teeth to see if any are loose. 


Video -  Periodontal (Gum) Disease

                 


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

  • Your referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist.
  • A list of medications you are currently taking (please note that you can fill out your patient registration and medical history form on our website.)
  • If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.
  • Please Note: All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment.
  • Please notify the clinic if you have a medical condition or concern prior to surgery (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension). 

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 not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us.

What Will It Cost?

Since all patients are different, Dr Mehta 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 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 treatment goals

Will My Insurance Cover The Cost?

Dental insurance policies often cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all medical and 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. 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.

When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?

Dr Mehta 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.