Frequently Asked Questions

What Will Happen On My First Visit?

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

• Your referral slip and any x-rays from your dentist.
• A list of medications you are currently taking.
• If you require antibiotics before dental treatment, please take your medication before your consultation (or any other visit) as directed by your doctor.
• If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards.
• If you are under the age of 18, please have an adult accompany you who will be responsible for payment.

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. If you are being referred for dental implants, we will perform a simple examination to look for any signs of active gum disease. This is to ensure the long term health and success of your new teeth.

Will It Hurt?

It is in our nature to be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam will be completed with little or no discomfort.

As a service to our patients with any level of anxiety related to dental treatment, we offer many levels of sedation. During Dr. Goulds three (3) year residency program at UNC-Chapel Hill following dental school, he was hospital trained to manage emergency medical situations and intra-venous sedation (IV sedation). He subsequently received and passed a licensure examination through the North Carolina State Board and maintains his sedation credentials by annual continuing education. His staff also maintains the required credentials and continuing education to ensure that your sedation experience is safe and comfortable.

Do I Need X-Rays?

We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to our office. In certain situations, additional or new x-rays are required to properly diagnose and treat your condition.

What Will It Cost?

Since all patients are different, Dr. Gould must complete your examination before establishing your treatment plan and the fee for care. The fee for periodontal 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 plan 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 to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will gladly submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits; however, this is not required by most plans. Please note that on the actual day of your appointment you are fully responsible for payment of all services rendered. Any benefits paid by your insurance company will be sent directly to you, as we do not accept the assignment of insurance benefits

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?

Recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth. If you must have a tooth extracted, we have the most reliable form of tooth replacement available in dental implants. Please ask us, or your dentist, about implants as an option.

When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?

Our office and your dentist will work closely together. If any crowns or fillings are needed to restore your teeth, your dentist will provide those services. As soon as your gum disease is under control, we will begin alternating cleaning appointments with your dentist.

What If I Don’t Have Gum Treatment?

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

Research shows that an infection in your gums may affect your overall health. Bacteria can enter the blood stream during brushing, flossing and eating activities. Evidence indicates that these bacteria can lead to an elevated risk of stroke, heart attack, atherosclerosis, pre-term low birth weight infants, pneumonia, and can affect control of diabetes. Additionally, a new study out of the Harvard School of Public Health has linked gum disease to an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer. You can read more about the Mouth-Body Connection under the Periodontal Disease Section of our website, or visit the American Academy of Periodontology website (www.perio.org) for more up-to-date information on how an infection in your mouth can affect your overall health.