What Will Happen On My First Visit?

Periodontist Craig H. Rubinoff, DDS, MS – Poway CA

Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:

• Your referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist.
• A list of all medications you are currently taking.
• 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 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 pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension).

We will complete an in-depth medical and dental health history and a thorough examination to measure for bone loss, loose teeth, bite, oral cancer screening, TMJ, and other signs of periodontal disease.

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 Full Mouth set of Dental X-rays (FMX) in order to view and evaluate areas of dental structures (teeth and bone) that are not visible to the eye. Dental X-rays assist us in diagnosing caries (decay), root canal abscesses, bone loss around teeth, and calculus (tartar) on the teeth and under the gums. Even though you may have been referred for evaluation of a problem in a particular area, there are often other subtle areas involved as well. A complete dental/periodontal evaluation including a FMX (18 small X-ray images) is necessary to properly diagnose your condition. For patients who are missing most or all of their teeth, a Panoramic Radiograph may be utilized instead.

What Will It Cost?

Since all patients are different, your periodontist must complete your examination before establishing your treatment Planing and the fee for care. The fee for periodontal or dental implant treatment can vary considerably depending on the type of problems and the complexity and length of treatment. An approximate fee can usually be determined at the initial visit; but on occasion, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before the final treatment planing can be established. 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. Please bring all medical and dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits; however, this is not required by most plans.

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.

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 Gum Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.