Patient FAQs

Your Questions, Answered

We understand that visiting a periodontist can bring up a lot of questions. Whether you've been referred by your dentist or are seeking a second opinion, we're here to help you feel informed and confident about your care.

Browse the questions below, and if you don't find the answer you're looking for, please contact our office. We'd be happy to help.

About Jensen Periodontics

  • A periodontist is a dentist with advanced training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, as well as dental implant placement and procedures involving the gums and supporting bone. Periodontists receive several additional years of specialized education beyond dental school, allowing them to provide expert care for complex periodontal conditions.

  • No. While many of our patients are referred by their general dentist, a referral is not required. If you're experiencing bleeding gums, gum recession, loose teeth, or are interested in dental implants, you're welcome to contact our office directly to schedule a consultation.

  • During your first appointment (consultation), Dr. Jensen will review your medical and dental history, perform a comprehensive periodontal examination, review any necessary X-rays or imaging, and discuss your diagnosis and treatment options. You'll have plenty of time to ask questions so you can feel comfortable and informed before making any decisions.

  • Jensen Periodontics proudly cares for patients from Kaysville, Layton, Farmington, Centerville, Bountiful, Syracuse, Clearfield, and surrounding communities throughout Northern Utah. However, we have patients who come from further away- Logan, Moab, Price, St. George, Wyoming.

Periodontal Health

  • Common signs include:

    • Bleeding gums

    • Red or swollen gums

    • Persistent bad breath

    • Gum recession

    • Loose teeth

    • Tenderness while brushing or flossing

    If you notice any of these symptoms, scheduling an evaluation early can help prevent further damage.

  • Item descriptionIn its earliest stage (gingivitis), gum disease can often be reversed with professional treatment and good oral hygiene. Once it progresses to periodontal disease, it cannot be completely reversed, but it can often be successfully managed to protect your teeth and gums for years to come.

  • Gum recession can result from periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, teeth grinding, or other factors. Dr. Jensen will determine the cause of your recession and recommend the most appropriate treatment to help protect your teeth and improve your gum health.

Dental Implants

  • Many healthy adults who have lost one or more teeth are good candidates for dental implants. During your consultation, Dr. Jensen will evaluate your oral health, bone support, and overall health to determine whether implants are the best option for you.

  • With proper care and regular dental visits, dental implants can last for many years—often decades. Maintaining healthy gums and good oral hygiene plays an important role in the long-term success of your implant. Here at Jensen Periodontics, we only use the BEST implants- Straumann.

  • Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. Local anesthesia—and, when appropriate, IV sedation—helps keep you comfortable throughout treatment. Some mild soreness afterward is normal and is typically manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medications.

Sedation

  • For many surgical procedures, Jensen Periodontics offers IV sedation to help patients feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment. We also offer oral sedation and nitrous (laughing gas). Dr. Jensen will review your medical history and discuss whether sedation is appropriate for your specific procedure.

  • IV sedation is a safe and effective option for many patients when administered by a trained provider. Before recommending sedation, Dr. Jensen will carefully review your medical history and answer any questions you may have.

  • IV sedation places most patients in a deeply relaxed state. While many patients remember very little about their procedure, you are still able to respond to instructions when necessary.

  • No- if you have IV or oral sedation- Because the effects of sedation can last for several hours, you'll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you as directed after your procedure. Patients who receive nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may drive themselves home after treatment. We administer oxygen before you leave to help flush the nitrous oxide from your system.

Insurance and Payment

  • We work with many dental insurance plans and are happy to help patients understand their benefits. Our team will gladly assist with filing claims and answering questions about your coverage.

  • Coverage varies depending on your individual insurance plan and the recommended treatment. Before beginning treatment, we'll help you understand your estimated benefits and any out-of-pocket costs whenever possible.

  • Payment is due at the time of service. To help make treatment more affordable, we partner with two financing companies that offer a variety of payment options, including interest-free plans for qualified applicants. Please visit our Payment page for more information or contact our office with any questions.

  • Yes. We accept both Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards. They do not have the 2.99% surcharge added.