FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who has been specially trained to treat gum diseases, perform periodontal plastic surgery, and place dental implants.
 
What is periodontal gum disease?
Periodontal gum disease is an infection of the gums and the supportive tissue surrounding the teeth. Telltale signs of periodontal disease include: swollen, painful, bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose or sensitive teeth.  There are a number of treatments for this disease.  It can be controlled, and in some cases, reversed with treatment and proper care.
 
What is periodontal plastic surgery?
There are sophisticated procedures to enhance the appearance, color, contours, health and comfort of the periodontium. This often involves changing the height of the gums to establish the correct amount of tooth exposure. A key objective is a natural cosmetic result with little or no evidence that a surgical procedure has been performed.
 
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw or cylinder which is surgically placed in the upper or lower jawbone. The implant replaces the root of the missing tooth, providing an anchor for a new tooth. If you would like to know more about implants, give us a call. Implant consultations are free.
 
What will happen at my first visit?
You will first be asked to complete a personal medical history. Then Dr. Renegar, Dr. Osborne, or Dr. Curry will complete a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, root exposure, and other dental problems. Their findings will be thoroughly discussed with you, and a personalized treatment plan will be created.
 
Will it hurt?
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be done with little discomfort.  It will help to take ibuprofen before the exam.
 
Do I need X-Rays?
We will need current periodontal X-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible. These can be obtained from your general dentist if taken within the past 12 months. Otherwise, we can bring you in 15-30 minutes early and take X-Rays at our office.
 
What will it cost?
We ask that your first visit be paid for on the day of service. Please contact our office for exam/consult fees.  It will be necessary for us to complete an examination before establishing the fee for your overall payment arrangements. For fees of $1,000.00 or more, a 5% savings is applied if you pay your fee in full on the day of treatment. This does not apply on later days and does not apply on credit card charges.
We also accept:
1. All major credit cards
2. Dental Fee Plan
3. Care Credit
Dental Fee Plan and Care Credit enables you to pay your account in monthly payments.  We must know in advance if you qualify for Dental Fee Plan or Care Credit. Read about our payment policy. 

Will my insurance cover the cost?
Dental insurance policies may only cover part of the cost. Please bring your dental insurance information with you and we will submit your treatment for pre-determination.
 
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 and also discuss various alternatives.
 
Can my teeth be saved?
The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow the periodontist to successfully treat most teeth.
 
When will I go back to my general dentist?
Dr. Renegar, Dr. Osborne, Dr. Curry and your dentist will work closely together. All restorative procedures will be done by your dentist. Regular visits to your dentist for cleanings are an important part of periodontal maintenance, and should occur every three months.
 
What if I don't pursue gum treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive and usually painless infection. Treatment delay can cause further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth. Treatment of a moderate problem is always more successful than that of an advanced problem.
 
Where are you located?
We have 4 locations to serve you better.  We have provided a map for your convenience.