The first visit is an opportunity for you to learn about us, and for us to become familiar with your needs and desires. You will give us information about your periodontal, dental, and medical history. A thorough examination is taken of your mouth. X-rays and/or photographs are taken of the areas of concern. We will discuss the findings, the causes that can hopefully be reduced (prevention), the treatment options, and the costs. Your questions will be addressed. If your needs are limited to specific treatments unrelated to gum disease, those procedures are thoroughly discussed and appointed as you wish. A complete report will be sent to your dentist.
Common conditions and treatments are listed below.
| Conditions needing functional/aesthetic correction | Common treatments |
|---|---|
| Periodontal diseases | Periodontal therapy |
| Bone loss | Regeneration |
| Missing teeth | Implants |
| Gum recessions | Soft tissue grafting |
| Excess gums | Cosmetic crown lengthening |
| Short teeth | Cosmetic crown lengthening |
| Decay below gums | Crown lengthening |
| Fracture below gums | Biopsy |
| Hopeless tooth | Ridge preservation, implant |
| Caved in ridge | Ridge augmentation (bone and tissue grafting) |
| Low maxillary sinus | Sinus lift and bone graft |
| Unerupted Teeth | Tooth exposure and tissue graft |
| Abnormal tissue |
Each patient is so different that diagnosis and treatment planning is personalized.
As indicated more advanced assessments are employed including:
- Bacterial analysis including phase microscope, DNA analysis, culture and sensitivity
- Genetic and systemic risk factor analysis
- Local risk factor analysis (eg. smoking)
- Nutritional analysis
- Cosmetic evaluation
- Tomography/CT Scan before implants (computer generated cross sectional x-rays)
The examination is generally not a time when procedures are performed (except in children), but it is instead a time to gather information and decide what to do.
The following are links to other sites that can provide additional details and information.
- Plastic Surgery for a Beautiful Smile
- Implants: Teeth and Look and Feel Like Yours
- How Gum Disease Threatens Your Health
- Gum Disease Increases Risk of Heart Attack
- Diabetes and Periodontal Disease
- Dental Care for a Healthy Pregnancy
- Gum Disease and Pregnancy Problems
- Protecting Children’s Oral Health
- Older Adults: Keep a Healthy Smile for Life
- Tobacco Use and Periodontal Disease
- Women: Protect Your Oral Health
- Self Test: Do You Have Periodontal Disease?
- Causes of Periodontal Disease
- Transmitting Gum Disease in the Family
- Gingivitis and Periodontics
- Treatments for Periodontal Disease