First Visit
Your first appointment will be a thorough examination that might include a series of x-rays and other diagnostic information. If your treatment is something Dr. Knox can do that day, you’ll have the option of being treated immediately. Most often, we will schedule a second appointment for a treatment conference. Dr. Knox will use information from your referring dentist and information from your exam to develop a treatment plan which he will explain at your treatment conference. You’ll have time to discuss treatment alternatives and ask questions.
Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:
- Your referral form and x-rays from your referring dentist.
- A list of medications you are currently taking (please note that you can print out your patient registration and medical history form on our website.)
- 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 guardian at the examination 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 pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension).
What Will It Cost?
The fees in our office are based on the care, skill, time and judgement required to provide the service. The fee for periodontal treatment can vary depending on the type of problems and the complexity and length of treatment. We will discuss the fee for your treatment with you before treatment. Payment is due at the time services are rendered. If other arrangements are necessary, please discuss this with our treatment coordinator before your appointment.
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. We will do everything we can to help you get the most from your insurance coverage. Please bring your insurance card.
Specialty exams and consults may not be covered; therefore, you are responsible for this fee at your first visit.
We have found that most insurance plans pay 50-80 percent of a preset schedule of fees established by the insurance company. Benefits are determined by the type of plan chosen by your employer. We will be happy to file a predetermination prior to treatment. This simply tells the insurance carrier what we plan to do and what it will cost. The insurance carrier will then advise you and our office, in writing, exactly what they will pay towards your treatment. We can accept insurance assignment of benefits as payment or partial payment only after we have this information. Keep in mind that most policies have a $25 to $100 deductible and a yearly maximum.
We pride ourselves on communication with our patients. Our thorough understanding of your insurance benefits is important to our relationship with you.
Will I Need Surgery?
Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. If treated early, gum disease can be controlled without surgery. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals.
Can My Teeth Be Saved?
The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth. If a tooth cannot be saved, there are options to replace it, including dental implants.
When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?
Our office and your dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed, your dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.
What If I Don’t Have My Periodontal Disease Treated?
Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Our goal is to provide the best possible care to help you maintain your dental health and keep your teeth for a lifetime. Delaying treatment can cause further bone loss, an increased risk of losing a tooth, and larger general health problems.