Recent studies show that the majority of Americans have dealt with gum disease at least once in their lives, and many have dealt with gum bleeding. A visit to the periodontist can help give patients the information they need in order to prevent gum disease from progressing or reoccurring. Your dentist will refer you to this type of specialist, and it’s incredibly important to follow up with a visit. When left untreated, gum disease can irrevocably destroy the bone structure of your jaw, and cause your teeth to become loose or fall out. Here are a few questions to ask your periodontist in Chicago when you call to book that first appointment.
How Do You Handle Dental Phobia?
One of the biggest reasons people avoid trips to see their dentist is because of dental phobia. Visiting a dental specialist can be a scary thing, even for people who aren’t especially frightened of a regular dental visit. In order to prevent anxiety about the visit, and to help motivate yourself to attend, ask your periodontist’s office what they do about dental phobia, and what recommendations they have to help you overcome any last minute fears.
How Long Is Your Wait List?
Most specialists have a waiting list, and each office handles the management of that list differently. While some book appointments on a first referred, first serve basis, others will triage the list and book accordingly to severity of the dental issue at hand. When you contact the office ask how long their wait list is, and if there is anything you can do to see the specialist early. This might include going on a special list, or indicating that you are available for same day appointments in the event of a same day cancellation.
What Recommendations Do You Have While I Wait?
There is a good chance that unless you are exceptionally lucky, you’ll have to wait at least a few weeks for your appointment. Be sure to ask the specialist what you can do in the meantime to help prevent the progress of the gum disease, and follow those recommendations to the letter.
For more information about visiting the periodontist in Chicago, contact the Dental Specialists of South Loop and North Shore at www.endoperiosurg.com.
