Consultation

patient information

Your initial visit to our office will consist of a review of your medical and dental history, and a complete examination of your teeth, gums and other oral structures by our doctors.  Our assistant will also take your blood pressure.  If you were referred to our office by your general dentist, we will review the x-rays sent by your dentist during this time.  If new x-rays are needed, we will take them using our Dexis and Sirona digital x-ray systems.

Digital x-ray systems emit 75 percent less radiation than older x-ray systems.  The images are immediately visible on the computer monitor in each exam room allowing for prompt review by our doctors.

The doctor will then give you their initial impressions of your periodontal condition and will formulate a treatment plan just for you.  We strive to answer each question you may have regarding your treatment options and the treatment procedures best suited to your needs.  We have many useful tools available to help clarify most treatment procedures, including our multimedia display on the computer, three dimensional models, and ‘before and after’ pictures.  The doctor will follow this up with a letter describing the recommendations to both you and your referring dentist.

If your referral is for a simple procedure, many times this treatment can be done at your initial visit.  This includes crown lengthenings, grafting procedures and simple implant cases.  If you are interested in having your treatment done at your initial visit, please advise our administrative staff upon making your first appointment.  Please know that we can only accomplish this if there are no complicating medical factors.

Important:  Please be aware that all patients under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment.

After a treatment plan has been established, you will be escorted to our treatment planning coordinator.  Discussions regarding fees, payment schedules and insurance can be completed privately and comfortably in our coordinator’s office.   Future appointments can be scheduled at this time, including collaborative care with Dr. Michael Higgins, Anesthesiologist, for general anesthetic, and with your referring dentist as necessary.

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