FAQs

A periodontist is a dentist (DDS or DMD) who has had additional specialty training to become an expert in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, placement and maintenance of dental implants, and the diagnosis and treatment of problems associated with the bone and soft tissues of the mouth, that affect your smile and the way you look.

A Board-Certified Periodontist is certified by the American Board of Periodontology. A Board-Certified Periodontist must be first certified as a dentist, including basic college education and completion of dental school to earn the D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree and then complete certification as a periodontist after successful completion of an educational program in Periodontology, which is accredited by Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Board Certified Periodontists must pass the comprehensive qualifying and oral examination covering all phases of periodontal disease and its treatment, including dental implants, and be recertified every six years.

Periodontal disease, or periodontitis, is a severe gum infection resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, leading to progressive attachment and bone loss. The condition is very common, with severe periodontitis that threatens tooth retention affecting 10–15% of adults in most populations studied. Moderate periodontitis is even more common, affecting 40–60% of adults. Periodontitis is therefore a highly prevalent, but largely hidden, chronic inflammatory disease. Furthermore, it has negative and profound impacts on many aspects of daily living and quality of life, affecting confidence, social interactions and food choices.

In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums become swollen and inflamed due to inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to the presence of harmful bacteria. As the disease progresses, the gums pull away from the tooth resulting in pocket formation and/or gingival recession due to the loss of these supporting tissues. Bone may be lost, and the teeth may loosen or eventually be lost. Progression of attachment loss usually occurs slowly, but periods of rapid progression can occur. Although the cause of periodontitis is a result of inflammation resulting from a bacterial infection, a variety of factors can influence the severity of the disease. Important risk factors include smoking, diabetes, lack of proper/adequate oral hygiene, and inherited or genetic susceptibility. Age, diet, medications and other systemic disease are starting to also showed links to the establishment and severity of periodontal disease.

We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort. Discomfort can sometimes occur if an area is infected. If this occurs, please inform Dr. Shelby right away as we want to make your examination as pleasant as possible.

Current periodontal x-rays are required in order to see conditions that are otherwise not visible. If your referring dentist has taken recent x-rays, we will ensure that we have them for your appointment. Restorative dentists commonly take bite wing x-rays to see cavities. For a periodontal assessment of your teeth, Dr. Shelby needs to see the root areas as well as the surrounding bone. We use the latest technology in digital radiography to ensure the lowest dosage of radiation possible.

Since each patient’s condition can vary, Dr. Shelby must complete your examination before establishing your treatment plan and the cost for your treatment. The fee for periodontal treatment can vary considerably depending on the type of issues, as well as the complexity and length of treatment. An approximate fee can be determined at your examination appointment but usually, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before the final treatment plan and estimate of cost can be established.

As with any investment, we want to know the steps required, length of time until completion and the cost involved. Dental insurance policies cover only the procedures outlined in the benefit package purchased by your employer. As this is an agreement between your employer and the insurance company, any concerns with your benefit package should be addressed with your human resources department. Please bring all dental benefit information to your examination appointment.  We will submit to all insurance companies. We are contracted providers with both Delta Dental and Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

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 you as conservatively as possible to attain the long term treatment goals you desire.

Recent advances in periodontal treatment allows us to successfully treat most teeth. Sometimes, the disease has progressed too far and a tooth may be lost. Fortunately, if this situation occurs, we can usually turn to dental implants to replace lost teeth.

Dr. Shelby and your dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are required, your dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance. Once we have re-established ideal periodontal health, you will be directed back to your general dentist for your ongoing care. Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend that you continue to see us on an alternating recall basis with your general dentist. Dr. Shelby will determine the interval of this periodontal maintenance care.

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. A delay in treatment can cause further bone loss and therefore, can cause more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own natural teeth. Having an on-going infection in your body has been shown to be detrimental to your immune system and overall health. Recent studies have shown a strong connection of patients with periodontal disease being at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease and worsened diabetic control.