What is a Periodontist?

Periodontics represents one of nine internationally recognized dental specialties. A periodontist is a dental specialist with a minimum of three additional years of university training following dental school focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease along with the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontists can be classified as the plastic surgeons of the mouth and are accepted as experts in the treatment of all forms of gum-periodontal disease including gingivitis, periodontitis, and gum (gingival) recession.

The specialty of periodontics is committed to an evidence based approach to better understand the biologic basis of health and disease. Only with a scientific grounding can we quantify the benefits versus the risks of surgical treatment. The insight gained through such an analytical approach enable periodontists to see beyond the technique, the “how” to gain an understanding of the “why.” To some, periodontal treatment can be distilled into light at a specific wave length, the prescribing of a drug or simply drilling a hole in bone to place an implant while forgetting about the teeth. To them, the world is flat and finite with clear limits based on a lack of critical knowledge. To be a specialist is not about simply mastering techniques. A specialty is committed to research and science that provide insights to effectively chart a course of therapy unique for each patient. Knowledge must be applied that is tried and true.  All the while, we must continue to strive to expand our existing scientific understanding in the quest to best assist and improve our patients’ well being. The field of Periodontology is grounded on this unwavering commitment to patient care and treatment excellence. Periodontists take great pride in the many ground breaking discoveries and innovations they have made in the fields of tissue regeneration, systemic inflammatory control and surgical implant therapy.

By choosing a periodontal specialist, you will benefit from a comprehensive oral, dental, jaw-bite and periodontal assessment from an individual with advanced training and a passion for this specialized field of dentistry. Dr. Novack’s experience and training enable him to define a treatment approach tailored to meet your unique oral health issues. Precision surgical placement of dental implants represents an integral component of periodontics. Dr. Novack has a passion for cosmetic periodontal and regenerative procedures. He brings to each case, years of experience and training, tailored to your individual needs to create the smile you always dreamed of.

To sum up, periodontists possess a knowledge base and skill set that transcends technique. Dr. Novack is committed to providing each and every patient with excellence in the execution of their care and service that is focused on health, wellbeing and sensitivity to each patient’s needs. It is this unwavering commitment, genuine sense of respect, caring and multi-disciplinary collaboration that represent the hallmarks of Dr. Novack’s practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Therapy

Will Periodontal Therapy or Dental Implant Surgery Hurt?

We are dedicated to caring for each patient in as gentle a manner as possible. Typically, a periodontal examination can be completed with little if any discomfort.

Do I Need X-Rays?

Dr. Novack will require current periodontal X-rays in order to see how far the disease may have spread below the gum line to infect and destroy your jawbone. The extent of periodontal disease is often not visible clinically. If your referring dentist has taken X-rays recently, we can request that your X-rays be forwarded to our office to be duplicated. We are committed to keeping total X-ray radiation exposure to the bare minimum.

What Will It Cost?

Since every patient’s situation is unique, Dr. Novack must first complete a comprehensive examination before establishing a treatment plan that addresses your specific care needs. We support a patient’s right to be advised as to the estimated cost of their treatment.  You will be provided with accurate estimates regarding the cost of the treatment to return you to periodontal health.

We are pleased to share that Dr. Novack’s professional fees remain at or below the Ontario Dental Association Fee Guide for Periodontal Specialists. With that said, the total cost of periodontal treatment varies considerably dependent upon the nature and extent of your problems, case complexity and length of treatment required to return you back to a state of health.

Although an estimate as to the cost of treatment can usually be determined at your initial visit, on occasion, an assessment of your response to initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before a final treatment plan can be established. Dr. Novack’s practice philosophy is to treat as conservatively as possible while remaining focused on helping each patient attain the oral health goals they define.

Will My Insurance Cover The Cost?

Dental insurance policies typically cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all dental benefit information and insurance cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit an estimate claim to predetermine your insurance benefits. You should be advised however that predetermination is typically not required by most plans.

Will I Need Surgery?

Not everyone needs or would benefit from periodontal surgery. If diagnosed and managed at an early stage, gum disease can often be controlled without surgery. Dr. Novack will make recommendations based upon your individual situation. Our practice philosophy is to treat as conservatively as possible while remaining focused on providing you with lasting oral-periodontal health and function.

Can My Teeth Be Saved?

Recent advances in periodontal treatment have made it possible to successfully manage cases that were untreatable only a generation ago. With that said, there still exist situations where the severity of disease is so advanced that other options must be considered. Implants have the potential to return our patients back to a state of long-term health and function while restoring a cosmetically pleasing natural smile. What remains crucial is timely diagnosis and treatment. It is best that situations be managed at the earliest possible stage thus avoiding the requirement for advanced surgical procedures and more extensive costs. Many of our patients recognize the importance of prevention and in turn, refer family and friends to our office.

When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?

Our office and your dentist will work collaboratively on your case. If fillings, crowns, dentures or other restorative care is required, these aspects of your treatment will be provided by your dentist. Regular visits to your dentist are important to maintain your dental health.

What If I Don’t Have Gum Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a progressive infection. At its early to moderate stages while still treatable, periodontal disease is typically painless. Delays in pursuing care can result in the permanent and ever increasing loss of jaw bone, more extensive surgical treatment requirements and significantly greater costs. Should your teeth be lost, dentures will never replace the function and quality of life your own teeth provide.

How Do I Get Started With Periodontal Treatment?

Patient Registration. For your convenience, we have attached a link to our New Patient Medical-Dental History Form. To expedite your first visit at our office, you can download and complete the Medical-Dental History Form in advance of your appointment.

Private and Group Insurance

As a service to our patients with dental insurance benefit coverage, our office utilizes the most up-to-date technology and is equipped to enable electronic claims submission (both EDI® and Itrans®). In most instances, your insurance company will have the information necessary to adjudicate your claim even before you ever leave our office.