The consultation is the first appointment with Dr Shah.
Upon arrival you will be given a medical history form.
It is important that you will this form in accurately and with as much detail as possible. Many conditions and medications can impact upon your gum health and the treatment that we provide. You will also be asked to complete a consent form for clinical photographs. Photography is an important part of your clinical records and helps us to plan your treatment effectively. Once the paperwork has been completed you will be taken to the surgery.
Dr Shah will have a detailed discussion with you about your concerns and ideal expectations with treatment. He may ask you about previous treatment that you may have had in the past. It is also usual to enquire about other relevant social, medical and dental factors. Clinical photographs may be taken by Dr Shah or his assistants.
The clinical examination includes a detailed check of your teeth and existing dental work. The gums will then be thoroughly checked. An important part of this is known as probing, where accurate measurements of the space between the gum and underlying bone is recorded. These measurements, known as pocket depths, allow us to quickly identify the areas of greatest concern. The amount of bleeding, mobility and the amount of recession are also recorded. Dr Shah will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible when recording these measurements. Depending on your reason for referral, further tests may also be carried out.
Based on the findings, Dr Shah will usually be required to take specialised x-rays to assess your gum health in further detail. Gum disease can lead to the loss of bone around your teeth. X-rays allow us to accurately assess the level of bone around your teeth, as well as the presence of any other dental pathologies. This information allows us to accurately diagnose the conditions which are affecting your teeth, as well as helping us to plan a bespoke treatment plan which is tailored to your needs.
Once we have completed the clinical examination you will be given a chance to relax in the waiting room. Dr Shah will then call you back into the surgery where he will discuss the findings and suggest which treatment may be required. He will answer any questions that you have and provide you with an itemised breakdown of appointments and fees. You will be given the opportunity to book the next appointment, so it is useful to bring your diary with you.
Following the appointment, Dr Shah will write a detailed clinical report which will be sent to you and your general dentist within 5 working days. Copies of X-rays will also be given to your dentist for their records. If you have any questions about the report or the proposed treatment plan, Dr Shah will be more than happy to discuss this with you via email or a telephone call.
The consultation is typically a 60-minute appointment. The fee includes all x-rays and copies of your clinical report.
