Welcome

Welcome to our practice website. We congratulate you on taking the first step toward better periodontal health. At Virginia Dental Implant Institute your smile is our first priority. Please utilize this website as a resource. It will help you better understand your course of treatment and answer any questions related to periodontal therapy.

Dr. Dickson is a specialist in periodontics and implantology. We specialize in conservative and surgical treatment of gum disease including cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhance your smile, as well as dental implants that can replace single or multiple missing teeth.

Although no one likes to go to the doctor or dentist, we strive to make your visits with us as comfortable and pleasant as possible. We strongly believe that our patient’s comfort is an important part of quality dental care.

Dr. Dickson believes that your right to choose a periodontist is an important freedom. We work closely with your dentist, but a referral by a dentist is not required to visit our office. We also welcome referrals from patients and friends of the practice.

We are extraordinarily proud of our staff, which is comprised of caring and dedicated professionals. They ensure that the patient’s surgical and administrative needs are met as efficiently and smoothly as possible.

Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed. We are here to listen to your questions and concerns and to help provide solutions leading to your better health. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding your care. Our phone number is Gateway Professional Center Office Phone Number 540-662-6400 and our fax number is 540-662-8681.

Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Services:

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontists are experts in the treatment of all forms of periodontal disease, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and gingival recession.

The American Dental Association recognizes periodontics as one of the nine specialties of dentistry. Periodontists receive extensive training, including three years of additional education beyond dental school.

By choosing a specialist you will benefit from the latest procedures for treating periodontal disease and placing dental implants tailored to your needs. In addition, Dr. Dickson can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire.

Will the periodontal exam hurt?

We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.

Do I need x-rays?

We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us.

What will periodontal treatment cost?

Since all patients are different, your periodontist must complete your examination before establishing your treatment planning and the fee for care. The fee for periodontal treatment can vary considerably depending on the type of problems and the complexity and length of treatment. An approximate fee can usually be determined at the initial visit; but on occasion, some initial treatment or further diagnostics must be completed before the final treatment planning can be established. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals.

Will my insurance cover the cost?

Dental insurance policies often cover periodontal treatment. Please bring all medical and dental benefit information and cards to your examination appointment. Upon request, we will submit a claim to predetermine your insurance benefits; however, this is not required by most plans.

Will I need periodontal surgery?

Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. If treated early, gum disease can be controlled without surgery. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals.

Can my teeth be saved?

The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth.

When will I go back to my general dentist?

Our office and your dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed your dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.

What if I don’t have gum treatment?

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own natural teeth.