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YOU SHOULD SEE A PERIODONTIST IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH:
- Bleeding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Persistent breath odors
- Receding gums
- Gums that are tender to brush, floss or eat on
- Missing teeth you wish to replace
- Systemic health issues which may be affected by poor oral health
PERIODONTAL DISEASE:
More than one in three people over age 30 have a form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease develops silently and painlessly. The majority of people do not even realize that they have it.
Recent research has found a relationship between periodontal infection and more serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and preterm low birth weight babies.
Research suggests that if a family member has periodontal disease, the bacteria can be passed through saliva.
Good periodontal health is a key component of a healthy body.
Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby born too early and too small. Half of women also experience “pregnancy gingivitis.’
Periodontal disease may be linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can travel into the blood stream and pose a threat to other parts of the body. Healthy gums may lead to a healthier body.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT THE FIRST TIME I VISIT A PERIODONTIST?
Your initial office appointment will consist of a consultation with Dr. Davis to evaluate you and determine your diagnosis and treatment options.
We will review your complete medical and dental history with you and examine your teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to observe the health of the bone below your gums.
X-rays: If your dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they forward them to our office. If there is enough time, please pick them up and bring them to our office. We may need to take a special x-ray to more carefully evaluate your teeth and the supporting jawbone. If additional films are necessary, we will take them.
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to surgery (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.) or require antibiotic premedication prior to dental visits.
If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. We will be happy to assist you in the filing of your insurance forms and provide any necessary documentation.
