Q: Where can I find a really cheap dentist and oral surgeon? I’m on Social Security and Medicare/Medicaid and neither will cover dental or vision. I get $839 a month. I have severe gum disease and no teeth left.

A: What you are looking for is not a cheap dentist and oral surgeon, but a clinic or dental school where you can find affordable fees for quality treatment. Google “dental schools” in your area or call nearby universities to see if any of them have a dental school. Best of luck!

Q: I have run out of money and need treatment. My teeth are falling out and my gums throb. What can I do? Many thanks.

A: I am sorry to hear that you having difficulty. Do you live near a major metropolitan area with a dental school? Although it could take a lot longer to get your treatment completed, it might be worth investigating this option. Best of luck.

A: What is the price range of this procedure?

Q: What is the cost of periodontal osseous surgery?

A: Periodontal osseous surgery is a form of traditional surgery. It’s difficult to answer that because each case is evaluated on an individual basis, based on the severity of disease, medical history, and the whole collection of clinical and radiographic data. Please call the office to discuss individual situations. We need to see the patient for a consultation before we can give a treatment estimate.

Q: What is the cost for laser gum treatment?

A: The cost for laser gum surgery can vary for each patient. After a thorough clinical exam, medical history, and review of a quality (digital) full mouth series of x rays, a final cost estimate can be discussed with the individual patient. Generally speaking, the costs of laser surgery are comparable to “traditional” flap surgery in our office.

Q: I understand that it is hard to determine price without seeing a patient, but if you were to compare laser to conventional surgery as an average, is it higher in cost or lower in cost, and by what percent?

A: LANAP is not more expensive than conventional surgery. The two cost about the same, but in most cases, LANAP is preferable for the reasons discussed on this page.

Q: How much does this treatment cost for whole mouth?

A: It’s difficult to offer a specific answer to such a general question. The cost of laser treatment could vary greatly depending on an individual’s condition and medical history. Please call our office, and if you choose to have a personal examination, with x-rays, etc., we would then be able to give you a fairly accurate estimate of the final cost of treatment.

Q: How much does pocket reduction for the gums cost?

A: We need to do a complete clinical examination with a full set of quality digital x-rays to make a diagnosis and treatment plan. It is only then we can give an estimate of costs. Each case and patient is different and the requirements vary to achieve periodontal health.

Q: How much does gum reduction surgery cost?

A: Gum reduction surgery is a very general term which could represent a number of different procedures. We would need to examine the patient, collecting their clinical and radiographic data, to determine what procedure is appropriate. Then we could provide a cost estimate. All of the procedures we do are coded and standardized, and are covered under the average dental insurance plan. Even though we’re an out-of-network provider, our patients generally get reimbursed according to their plan. We help with filling out forms. We accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and something called Care Credit, which is an American Dental Association accredited financing program. We need to complete a consultation to quote a fee.

Q: Hello Dr. Linden:
I saw my dentist earlier today and he suggested I needed LANAP to fix my gums/bones. He estimated of $8500 on the paper and tried real hard for me to agree to do the procedure. I am wondering, is this a normal cost for this procedure?

A: Did you speak with a Periodontist (specialist) in gum surgery, or a regular dentist?  How long has he been doing this procedure?  Does he do advanced cases and have the ability and experience to do traditional work if needed?  What case type are you?  What geographic area of the country do you live in?  The case fee varies depending on these factors and the extent of the disease. It might be wise to get a second opinion.

Q: Does insurance cover laser gum surgery?

A: We do not participate with any insurance plans, but typical dental insurance that covers “gum surgery” should cover you for laser surgery as well. Please check with your dental insurance carrier. We will also help you with the insurance “red tape” when you finish your consultation appointment.

Q: Do you offer some type of payment plan for LANAP?  I would like to save the few teeth I have left, mostly the front ones. I lost a lot of bone. Four of my teeth are loose. My dentist wanted to pull them, but recommended that I see a periodontist. Please help.

A: We offer a payment program called Care Credit which is endorsed by the ADA. Please call our office for more information.

Q: Do you offer a free initial consultation?

A: We do not. However, senior citizens get a courtesy discount, based on the individual case and situation.

Q: Do dental insurance policies cover your services?

A: Most dental insurance plans cover periodontal therapy. We are an out-of-network provider. However, we will fill out all necessary forms and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement directly to you. Please check your policy for further details. We would be happy to help you better understand what your out-of-network dental benefits may be.

Q: Can a patient make payments for the periodontal services such as laser surgery, implants or conventional surgery?

A: Yes. We offer financing through the American Dental Association’s approved financing programs. Please call our office for details.