FAQ
What will happen at my first visit?
Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office 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 print out a blank copy of our Patient Registration/Health History Form at home and then bring it to your 1st appointment.)
- If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.
Please Note: All patients under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment.
Please notify the office if you have a medical condition or concern prior to your appointment (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, or heart disease requiring blood thinner therapy).
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, TMJ and other signs of periodontal disease.
Will it hurt?
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort for most patients.
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. In many cases when your consultation will involve evaluation of your teeth and jaw for dental implant placement, an additional x-ray or CT scan will be required. This CT scan is taken at our office at the time of your consultation and will allow our doctors to have the most complete information on the anatomy of your mouth, face and jaw. Our office utilizes digital radiography which reduces the exposure of radiation by 75 percent.
Will I need surgery?
Not everyone needs a dental implant or periodontal surgery. If treated early, periodontal disease can be controlled without surgery. Occasionally, some cases are not well suited for implant placement. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals.
What will it cost?
Since all patients are different, the doctors must complete your examination before establishing your treatment plan and the fee for care. The fee for implant and periodontal treatment can vary considerably depending on the type of care and the complexity and length of treatment. An approximate fee can usually be determined at your initial visit; but on occasion, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before a 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, but not always dental implant treatment. Please bring all medical and dental benefit information and cards to your initial appointment. Upon request, we will be happy to submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits.
Will my dental or medical insurance pay for dental implants?
Each patient's health benefit plan is different. We cannot tell you specifically what your individual benefit plan will cover. However at your consultation you will receive all the information you need to follow up with your insurance company to ascertain your coverage. Our staff will also be happy to request a 'pre-estimate' from your insurance company. We additionally have several different financing and payment options available.
Will payment be expected in full at the time of treatment?
Following your initial examination, a fee estimate will be reviewed with you for your treatment plan. Payment is due in full at the time of each treatment procedure. For your convenience we accept cash, check, money order and credit card payment (Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express). We also offer financing through Care Credit. Terms are available. Our treatment coordinators can provide you with specific details at the time of your initial visit.
Does the fee for the implants include the final restorations?
Placement of dental implants should be looked at as a two step process. The first step, placement of the dental implant or tooth root, is done in our office. The surgical fee in our office includes all surgical care and follow-up appointments in our office for the first year after implant placement.
The second step, fabrication and placement of the final crown (or implant supported bridge/denture) is completed at your general dentist's office. Your general dentist will bill you for these fees separately.