NavigationFrequently Asked Questions
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases as well as in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive residency training in these areas, which includes more than two additional years of education beyond dental school.
By choosing Dr. Farthing as your periodontal specialist, you will benefit from the latest research (scientifically proven) procedures for treating periodontal disease and placing dental implants tailored to your needs. In addition, we perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help achieve the smile you desire.
What Will Happen on my First Visit?
Thank you for choosing our office for your periodontal and dental implant needs. Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to our office by providing the following information:
- Your referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist
- A list of medications you are currently taking and the dosage of each
- Please also include a list of vitamins and/or supplements
- 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 legal guardian at the consultation appointment.
Please notify the office if you have a medical condition or concern prior to surgery (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring premedication, diabetes, hypertension, taking Fosamax).
We will complete an in-depth medical and dental health history and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, loose teeth, bite problems, oral cancer screening, and other indicators of periodontal disease. (X-rays may be necessary to assist in the diagnosis.)
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 detect bone loss that may not otherwise be evident. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to our office .
What Will It Cost?
Since all patients are different, Dr. Farthing 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, the complexity, and length of treatment. An approximate fee can usually be determined at the initial visit; however, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before the final treatment plan can be established.
Will my Insurance Cover the treatment Cost?
Dental insurance policies often cover a portion (percentage) of periodontal treatment. Please bring dental benefit information and insurance cards to your examination appointment. We will submit a request for a predetermination of your insurance benefits; however, this is not required by most plans.
Will I Need Surgery?
Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. Many forms of gum disease can be managed without surgery. Dr. Farthing will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain successful treatment goals.
Can My Teeth Be Saved?
Advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth. However, if your teeth are loose, it may be necessary to consider replacement with dental implants.
When Will I Go Back to My General Dentist?
Our office and your general dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed, your general dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.
What If I Don’t Have Treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay of treatment can result in further bone loss and more expense and eventually tooth loss. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth. Recent studies have also shown that gum disease adversely affects heart disease, strokes, Alzheimer’s and arthritis.