Your First Visit
What to Expect
Welcome to our practice website. We congratulate you on taking the first step toward better periodontal health. Please utilize this website as a resource. It will help you better understand your course of treatment and answer any questions related to periodontal therapy.
Our doctors are specialists in periodontics and implantology. Our practice specializes in conservative treatment of gum disease, cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhance your smile, and dental implants that can replace single or multiple missing teeth. We also diagnose and treat oral pathology. Although no one likes to go to the doctor or dentist, we strive to make your visits with us as comfortable and pleasant as possible. We strongly believe that our patient’s comfort is an important part of quality dental care.
Dr. Wang and Dr. Liu believe that your right to choose a dentist is an important freedom. We work closely with your dentist, but a referral by a dentist is not required to visit our office. We also welcome referrals from patients and friends of the practice.
We are extraordinarily proud of our staff, which is comprised of caring and dedicated professionals. They ensure that the patient’s surgical and administrative needs are met as efficiently and smoothly as possible.
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. We are here to listen to your questions and concerns and to help provide solutions leading to your better health. Please don’t hesitate to e-mail us if you have any questions regarding your care, or call us at (510) 494-9777. Our fax number is (510) 494-9724.
First Visit
Please assist us at the time of your initial visit to the office by providing the following information:
- Your referral slip and x-rays from your referring dentist.
- A list of medications you are currently taking.
- If you have dental insurance, please bring any forms or insurance cards with you to the appointment.
Please Note: All patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation appointment.
Please notify the office if you have a medical condition or concern prior to surgery (e.g. artificial heart valves or joints, heart murmurs requiring pre-medication, severe diabetes, or hypertension). 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.
Will It Hurt?
We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.
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 us.
What Will It Cost?
Since all patients are different, your periodontist 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 dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits for major procedures; however, this is not required by most plans.
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?
The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth.
When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?
Our office and your dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed your dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.
What If I Don’t Have Gum Treatment?
Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.
