Frequently Asked Questions

We believe specialty care should be thorough, honest, relationship-based, and grounded in excellence. Our goal is not simply to perform procedures, but to understand each patient’s condition, goals, and long-term oral health needs so we can recommend care that truly serves the patient well. We also utilize state-of-the-art technology and techniques to support precision, diagnosis, and long-term results. This includes microsurgical treatment performed with the aid of a surgical microscope when appropriate, as well as advanced diagnostic tools such as DNA saliva testing to identify the bacterial profile associated with periodontal disease. That level of diagnostic precision helps us better understand why disease is occurring and how to tailor treatment more effectively. In implant care, we use only high-quality implant systems and restorative components from respected manufacturers such as Straumann, BioHorizons, Nobel Biocare, and Astra Tech. We believe patients deserve the highest quality materials and treatment planning, not bargain-level shortcuts.

Yes. We serve patients who place a high value on their dental health and are seeking a thoughtful, high-quality approach to diagnosis, treatment, materials, and customer service.

We believe careful diagnosis and clear communication matter. We take the time to understand the condition, explain the findings, and recommend treatment based on what is appropriate for the patient’s health, long-term prognosis, and goals.

Because treatment quality matters. In specialty care, the long-term result depends on accurate diagnosis, sound surgical judgment, technical precision, and the quality of the materials used. We believe patients are better served when corners are not cut.

No. Many of our patients are referred by their general dentist or another specialist, but patients may also contact our office directly to schedule a consultation.

Yes. We offer consultations so we can understand your condition, how it is affecting your health or quality of life, and whether there is a treatment approach that may help.

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance information if applicable, a list of medications, and any recent X-rays or records that may help us evaluate your case.

The first visit is focused on understanding your concerns, reviewing your health and dental history, performing a clinical examination, and determining what is happening in your mouth and what treatment options may be appropriate. If needed, diagnostic imaging may also be taken or reviewed.

Yes. We value close communication with referring and restoring dentists when coordination is important for diagnosis, treatment planning, surgery, and long-term maintenance.

A periodontist is a dental specialist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, gum recession, bone loss, and dental implant placement.

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an inflammatory condition and infection affecting the gums and supporting bone around the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to bleeding, recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.

Common signs include bleeding gums, gum swelling, bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, tenderness, shifting teeth, or the feeling that something is not healthy or stable.

Diagnosis begins with a clinical examination, periodontal measurements, and appropriate imaging. In selected cases, we may also use advanced diagnostic tools such as DNA saliva testing to identify the bacterial profile associated with periodontal disease. This can provide more detailed information about the pathogens involved and help guide treatment decisions.

Yes. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and may include deep cleaning, surgical treatment, regenerative procedures, and long-term periodontal maintenance.

Periodontal surgery may be recommended to treat advanced gum disease, reduce pockets around teeth, rebuild lost support, improve gum architecture, or prepare a site for restorative treatment.

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth or wears down, exposing more of the root surface. This can lead to sensitivity, root wear, increased risk of decay, and cosmetic concerns.

Gum grafting is a procedure used to treat gum recession by adding tissue in areas where the gums have thinned or receded. The goal may be to protect the roots, reduce sensitivity, improve long-term stability, and improve the appearance of the gumline.

Yes. We are committed to using advanced technology when it improves diagnosis, precision, patient experience, and long-term outcomes. Depending on the case, this may include microsurgical techniques performed with magnification or a surgical microscope, advanced imaging, and DNA saliva testing to better identify the specific pathogens involved in periodontal disease. Better information and better tools support better care.

We use high-quality dental implant systems and components from leading manufacturers such as Straumann, BioHorizons, Nobel Biocare, and Astra Tech. We believe in using only the highest quality materials and components in implant treatment, because long-term success depends on careful planning, precise execution, and reliable restorative foundations.

Titanium is the industry standard due to its high biocompatibility and decades of clinical success. Zirconia implants are a metal-free alternative often requested by patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking a more holistic approach. Both materials integrate well with the bone, though titanium remains the most versatile for complex cases.

A dental implant is a titanium root placed in the jawbone to replace the natural root of a missing tooth. It can support a crown, bridge, or denture and is intended to provide a stable, long-term replacement for missing teeth.

Many people are candidates for implants, but that depends on the condition of the bone and gums, overall health, bite forces, habits, and treatment goals. The only honest way to answer that question is through a clinical evaluation and appropriate imaging.

Dental implants are considered the gold standard because they function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, which can slip and lead to bone atrophy, implants stimulate the bone, preserving your facial structure and providing 100% of your natural biting force.

Yes. Depending on the situation, implants can support a single tooth, multiple teeth, a bridge, or a full-arch restoration.

Generally, yes. Replacing an entire arch of teeth with individual implants would require 8–10 implants and significant bone grafting. All-on-X uses four strategically placed implants to support a full bridge, which typically reduces the total surgical cost, the number of visits, and the overall healing time.

Generally speaking, health is a much more important factor than chronological age. If a patient is healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction, they are typically healthy enough for an implant.

Smokers can receive dental implants, but they face a higher risk of early failure because nicotine constricts blood flow and slows healing. Aria Dental utilizes specialized protocols, such as Growth Factors (PRGF) and minimally invasive techniques, to improve success rates, but smoking cessation is always recommended during the osseointegration (healing) phase.

Dental implants can last many years when they are properly planned, placed, restored, and maintained. Long-term success depends on factors such as home care, regular maintenance, bite forces, overall health, and smoking status. With proper home care and professional periodontal cleanings, dental implants are designed to be a lifetime solution. The success rate is over 95%. While the titanium post is permanent, the porcelain crown on top may experience normal wear and tear over 15–20 years, similar to a standard dental crown.

That does not automatically mean implants are impossible. Some patients may benefit from site development procedures such as bone grafting. Each case is different and must be evaluated carefully.

Yes. As a periodontal specialty practice, Aria Dental & Perio excels in site development. This includes advanced bone grafting, sinus lifts, and guided tissue regeneration. These procedures rebuild the foundation of your jaw, making it possible for patients who were previously told they were not candidates to safely receive implants.

Bone grafting is a procedure used to rebuild or preserve bone that has been lost due to infection, tooth loss, trauma, or other conditions. It can be important for supporting teeth, preparing for implants, or improving ridge contour.

After a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone often shrinks. In some cases, a graft is recommended to preserve the site and improve the chances for a future implant or a better ridge contour.

Not all bone loss can be fully restored, but in selected situations, grafting or regenerative procedures may help rebuild lost bone support.

Healing time varies depending on the graft type, the size of the defect, the patient’s biology, and the overall treatment plan. Some grafts require only a few months, while others take longer.

Yes. Many periodontal and implant procedures are performed in the office setting.

Most of our procedures do not necessarily require sedation. Depending on the patient preferences and the procedure, we offer mild to moderate sedation. We discuss what is appropriate based on the treatment involved and the patient’s needs.

Most patients do better than they expect. Appropriate anesthesia is used during treatment, and post-operative discomfort is usually manageable with medication and home care instructions.

Unlike traditional surgery, which may involve large incisions and significant sutures, Aria Dental utilizes microsurgery techniques. By using high-magnification tools and 3D computer-guided planning, we can place implants through tiny openings. This results in significantly less swelling, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery times.

The timeline depends on the case. Some situations are straightforward. Others require extractions, healing, grafting, staged treatment, or coordination with the restoring dentist. We explain the sequence clearly before treatment begins.

Most patients return to work the very next day. While the integration of the implant into the bone takes 3–6 months, the soft tissue usually heals within 7–10 days. Because Aria Dental uses microsurgical techniques, the initial discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. Recovery times will also vary depending on the specific procedure done and your personal health.

Recovery depends on the type of procedure. Some treatments have a relatively quick recovery, while others require more healing time and closer post-operative follow-up.

Yes. We provide detailed instructions so patients understand how to care for the surgical area, what to expect, and when to contact the office.

If you experience severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, significant pain, or another urgent problem after treatment, contact our office right away. If you are having a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the need for preparatory procedures like bone grafting, and the type of restoration. Aria Dental & Perio focuses on a comprehensive, all-inclusive approach to minimize hidden fees. For an exact quote, a 3D CT scan and clinical evaluation are required.

Yes. We do our best to help patients understand the projected fees and estimated insurance benefits before treatment. For larger cases we typically have a not-to-exceed fee to assist patients in staying within their budgets.

We work with many patients who have dental insurance and help provide the documentation needed for claims processing. Coverage varies significantly from plan to plan.

Insurance benefits depend on the patient’s plan. Some procedures may be partially covered, while others may not. Patients remain financially responsible for their care regardless of insurance payment. While many traditional insurance plans still categorize dental implants as cosmetic, an increasing number of providers offer a lifetime allowance or cover a percentage of the restoration even if they do not cover the implant itself. Aria Dental & Perio works with various insurance providers and offers third-party financing to help make treatment accessible. Please reach out to your insurance provider for more information about what is covered by your specific plan.

Yes. We have partnerships with lenders to assist our patients in affording the care they want. Please contact the office to discuss available financing options and financial policies.

Our financial team is available to help explain billing, insurance estimates, statements, and patient responsibility.