Frequently Asked Periodontal & Dental Implant Questions – Corpus Christi, TX
Ask Your Corpus Christi Periodontist
It’s not every day that you need to visit a dental specialist, so it’s perfectly expected if you have questions for Dr. Garcia. He’s always willing to take the time to give periodontal patients all the information they need to enjoy peace of mind. Below, you’ll find our responses to some of the most popular questions our periodontal office receives, and please be sure to contact us if you would like to ask anything else.
What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a type of dental specialist that focuses on finding, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the roots of the teeth as well as the tissue and bone that support them. The difference between a general dentist and a periodontist is similar to the difference between a general practitioner and a cardiologist.
What is the difference between a periodontist and a general dentist?
The big difference comes down to training. Both dentists and periodontists have to obtain a four-year undergraduate degree before completing a collegiate dental program. After that, however, the periodontist must take part in a specialty residency program in which they learn how to treat advanced gum disease and perform dental implant procedures. This typically lasts about two to three years and is much more focused compared to a general dentist’s training.
Why should I visit a periodontist instead of a general dentist?
Periodontists are usually recommended if a patient is dealing with severe gum disease and/or could benefit from having their teeth replaced with dental implants. They are experts in both of these fields and have completed years of additional training on top of dental school in order to gain this knowledge. They have more experience with these procedures and therefore are able to deliver higher-quality care to a wider variety of patients.
Do I need a referral to see a periodontist?
While most patients are referred to periodontists by their general dentist, you do NOT need one to schedule an appointment with us. You can contact us directly to set up a visit. If you know that you have gum disease or are interested in dental implants, we invite you to reach out to us so Dr. Garcia can learn more about you and discuss your options.
Will you take my dental insurance?
If your plan offers coverage for periodontal care and/or dental implant treatment, yes, we can use your insurance to help you pay for treatment. Be sure to look over your policy, talk to your provider, or reach out to our team before committing to treatment so you have a good idea of how much you’ll be expected to pay out-of-pocket.
Is there another way for me to pay for periodontal care?
Yes. If you don’t have insurance, you can sign up for CareCredit financing through our website. This gives you the ability to break up the cost of treatment into smaller monthly payments that are suited to your budget. To learn more about how this works and get set up, visit our New Patients page.