What is the difference between a composite and amalgam filling?
Composite fillings are "tooth colored" resin based fillings.  Our office primarily uses         
these type of fillings for most restorations.  Amalgam or "silver" fillings are used mostly on
primary teeth but occasionally suit certain types of occasions for adult restorations as well.  
The composite fillings are stronger and in most cases are better for the tooth structure than
the silver fillings.  Composite fillings do cost, on average about $20 more than amalgam
fillings and in some instances are not covered by some insurance plans on posterior  teeth.
We recommend that if you are unsure about your dental coverage regarding composite
restorations that you check with them prior to any restoration appointment.  

What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept any insurance company's "Traditional" / "Indemnity" or "PPO" plan which allow
you to see a dentist of your choice.

We are an "In Network" / "Preferred Provider" for Delta Dental and United Concordia
insurance companies. If your dental coverage requires you to choose a doctor from their
preferred provider list, we will be an out of network provider for any plan other than Delta
Dental or United Concordia.

What is involved in receiving an implant?
An initial consult with an oral surgeon of your choice is the first step.  We will be glad to refer
you to a qualified doctor in your area if necessary.  The initial phase of treatment begins with
the oral surgeon.  Your implant will be surgically placed  and our practice will fit and place
the crown restoration for you.  An implant generally takes several months to finish but  is in
most instances the healthiest, most reliable and longest lasting restoration option.  

What is gum disease and how do I prevent it?
Gum disease can be broken down into several different levels of severity.  

The initial phase is Gingivitis.  Signs of gingivitis include:
  • gums which bleed easily during brushing
  • gums which are inflamed and sensitive

The next phase is Early Periodontitis:
  • gums begin to pull away from the teeth
  • bleeding and inflammation become more pronounced
  • Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth are usually present  
  • upon examination, the probe depths may be greater than 4mm

Moderate Periodontitis follows:  
  • During this stage, teeth may begin to look longer because the gums are pulling away
    from the tooth structure.  
  • Bone loss is visible on x-rays and teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces.  
  • Probe depths during examination can range up to 6mm in depth

If left untreated,  Advanced Periodontitis occurs:  
  • Teeth may become mobile or loose now.  
  • Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth are constant
  • Teeth may become very sensitive due to exposed roots caused by gum recession.
  • Severe bone loss occurs at this stage and probe depths can now read between 6mm
    and 10mm.

The best prevention for gum disease is to brush and floss twice daily.  Flossing is the only
way to reach between the teeth where gingivitis starts.  Mouth rinses also help but flossing is
your best defense for removing plague at the gum line.    

What do I do in the case of an emergency and what constitutes an after hours
emergency?
If you or a family member experiences swelling and severe pain, do not hesitate to contact
our office.  Such symptoms usually indicate an infection and should be treated as soon as
possible.  Should this occur after hours, please call 770-356-2013 to reach an after hours
office representative.  Chipped teeth and re-cementation of crowns can be treated during
regularly scheduled office hours.  
Facts and FAQ's                                                    Dr. John C. Binkley, DMD