What is a Periodontist?
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Your dentist has recommended that you see a Periodontist.  A Periodontist is the dentist who has had additional training after dental school to treat gum disease and other disorders of the tissues surrounding your teeth.

What is Periodontal Disease?
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Periodontal disease is usually a painless infection of the gums leading to destruction of bone around your teeth and abnormal soft tissue recession.

What Happens on My First Visit?
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Standard procedures, state law, and common sense dictate that a visual exam of a new patient and current x-rays occur before a cleaning is performed.  (See Hygiene examination). Betty and/or Joan will assist you in completing  your personal history and insurance forms.

We try to get to know you and to become familiar with  your past dental experience, and your present needs and desires. We complete a periodontal dental examination that includes soft tissue exam (oral cancer screening), look at the teeth noting anything wrong with existing restorations or the teeth themselves, gum tissues, bone loss, tooth alignment (your bite), signs of infection and x-rays. We put this information together and decide on required and desired treatment.  We discuss the cause of gum disease, treatment options and preventive measures that can improve your dental health. 

Why do I need X-Rays?
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What a visual exam reveals is only about 20% of what is really happening in the areas of potential infection, bone loss, etc.  An x-ray provides a clear picture for a dentist to accurately diagnose and provide the necessary treatment.  We use the lowest dosage of radiation possible when taking our x-rays.  We use special low dosage digital x-ray equipment.  This is the safest method available within the limits of the dental profession. 

Will it hurt?
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Dr. Gilio will be as gentle as possible.   The periodontal exam can be done with little or no discomfort.  This is where the use of current x-rays are so important.  Dr. Gilio uses a laser procedure whenever possible, thus reducing  the the process (your chair time).  A laser procedure is generally a bloodless surgery, creates minimal swelling, minimal ro no suturing, and generally reduces post-op pain and helps to enhance your recovery time.
See Laser Procedure

Will I need surgery?
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Dr. Gilio will make recommendations based on your individual situation.  The goal of his treatment is to control gum disease and save your teeth with the minimal amount of treatment to achieve predictable long term results.

Can my teeth be saved?
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The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow Dr. Gilio to successfully treat most teeth.

What if I don't have gum treatment?
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Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection.  85% of the American adult population has some form of periodontal gum disease.  Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense.  If your teeth are lost dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.

What about your Sterilization procedures?
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As a matter of policy we use as many throw away items as possible.  All of our hand-pieces and dental instruments are Heat and Steam Sterilized in hospital grade equipment.  Water lines are cleaned and disinfected regularly.  Every room is thoroughly cleaned between every patient.  We are proud of our safety procedures and will be happy to provide you a tour and discuss in detail our sterilization procedures.  See Sterilization

What will it cost?
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Since some patients require less treatment than others, it will be necessary for Dr. Gilio to complete your examination before establishing the fee for your treatment.  We expect full payment at the time of service.  We accept most major credit cards.  We will be happy to assist you in billing your insurance company.  Bring a copy of your Dental Insurance claim form to your examination appointment so it can be submitted for pre-determination of your insurance benefits. There are financing options available to help you afford the necessary dentistry.  See Payment Options