New Patient Info
What is a Periodontist?
A Periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gum and bone diseases that support the teeth. Also, a Periodontist is responsible for helping with the replacement of missing teeth lost from dental disease and also in the placement of dental implants. With the incidence of periodontal disease in the human population being reported as high as 80%.
A Periodontist is responsible for making proper treatment decisions and recommendations along with your restorative dentist including replacement of missing teeth and is trained in the placement of dental implants.
The Periodontist helps determine whether remaining teeth are strong enough and healthy enough following periodointal treatment to serve as abutment teeth for removable partial dentures, fixed bridges or whether dental implants are needed.
What to Expect at your first periodontal appointment
We understand that visiting a specialist for the first time can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make your experience as smooth, informative, and comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect when you come to our office for your first appointment.
From the moment you arrive, our friendly team will greet you and help you get settled. If you haven’t already completed your new patient forms mailed to you, we’ll ask you to fill them out in the office. Please bring a list of your current medications, any recent X-rays (if available), and your referral slip if you were sent by your general dentist, dental specialists, or physician.
All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your first visit is typically a consultation. During this appointment, your periodontist will:
- Review your past and current dental and medical history and any of your chief complaints
- Perform a thorough periodontal examination, including periodontal pocket depths, gum recession measurements, mobility of teeth, and surrounding soft tissues of the head and neck
- Take necessary diagnostic images, such as X-rays or a 3D scan, if not already provided, when appropriate
- Discuss your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals, and all available treatment options for you to choose from
Treatment Plan
Your treatment plan will be based on your chief complaints and needs, referring dentist or physician’s recommendation, findings of the complete comprehensive exam, and discussed with you both verbally and in writing at the time of the appointment. A chief complaint (CC) is a concise, subjective statement in a patient’s own words explaining the primary reason for their medical visit, such as symptoms, pain, or a, “need a checkup”. A guide to help with diagnosis and treatment.
We will answer any concerns or questions you may have regarding your treatment, the time it will take, what it will cost and the payment plan involved. We take the time to answer your questions and make sure you fully understand your condition and the proposed next steps.
After active periodontal treatment, the maintenance of optimal dental health and the prevention of future gum disease is the primary objective of this office. Dr. Bleier will strive to help you keep your natural teeth as long as possible, hopefully for your lifetime. Most of our efforts will be directed toward that goal.