FAQ

Frequently Asked Question

• What is a Periodontist

  A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school.

• Will my health insurance cover any of my treatment at your office?

  Most likely, no. There are a few medical insurance plans through labor unions that will cover periodontal surgery. We do not submit medical claims; however, we will be happy to work with your dental insurance company for payment of treatment.

• Do you offer any type of payment plans?

  Our office accepts Care Credit. Care Credit is a card used for healthcare needs through Synchrony Bank. Patients who use the card for more than $200 are offered either a 6, 12 or extended 18 month no interest plan if paid in full by the end of the term. Please contact our office manager, Bridget, for help or assistance in applying for Care Credit or refer to their website for any additional information.

  

• Is there a charge for my initial exam with Dr.Jenkins?

  Yes. This is not a free consultation, it is a full periodontal exam with the doctor. Dr.Jenkins will review your dental and medical history with you, take periodontal measurements and review the most current X-rays available. After the exam is done, Dr. Jenkins will make a diagnosis and put together a treatment plan.

• What will I need for my first appointment with Dr.Jenkins and how long does it take?

  Please bring any referral slip you may have been given by your general dentist, a list of your current medications, your insurance card and drivers license. Your exam is scheduled for one hour and we ask you arrive 15 minutes early to complete your paperwork.

• How did I get periodontal disease?
  • Smoking or Tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease. Additionally, smoking can lower the chances for successful treatment.
  • Hormonal changes in girls/women: These changes can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
  • Illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or HIV that interfere with the immune system. Because diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, patients with this disease are at higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease and cavities.
  • Medications. There are hundreds of prescription and over the counter medications that can reduce the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on the mouth. Without enough saliva, the mouth is vulnerable to infections such as gum disease. And some medicines can cause abnormal overgrowth of the gum tissue; this can make it difficult to keep teeth and gums clean.
  • Genetic susceptibility: Some people are more prone to severe gum disease than others.
• Will I need to continue seeing Dr.Jenkins after my treatment is complete?

  Yes, after active treatment is complete, Dr. Jenkins will send your general dentist a letter with his recommendations on how often you should have your teeth cleaned (every 6, 4 or 3 months.) We will typically have you alternate between cleanings at your general dentist and a cleaning at our office.

• What's the difference between a cleaning at your office and one done at my general dentist?

  Cleanings at our office are a periodontal maintenance cleaning (PMC.) This type of cleaning specifically targets plaque, bacteria and tartar buildup along the surfaces of teeth to ensure healthy gums and periodontal health. Periodontal maintenance cleanings scheduled at a regular interval are crucial to successfully managing and treating periodontal disease. PMC’s go above and beyond a typical dental cleaning and are performed on patients who have a history of periodontal disease. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are typically done on a shorter interval schedule than a normal dental cleaning in order to remove bacterial colonies and plaque well before buildup can become large enough to cause damage to gums and teeth.

• Can I brush my teeth after having periodontal treatment?

  Yes! For specific questions on your treatment aftercare, please refer to the ‘Procedures’ section on our website, click on the treatment you are having done and the post-op instructions are downloadable on that page.