A little long-sorry-
To begin, it has been awhile since I went to the dentist (no insurance,
fear of what I would find out, and more importantly fear of not finding a
good dentist-I had a great one but not on my insurance.)  I went to one
recommended to me-the hygienist examined me, took measurements of pockets,
showed me tarter build-up and how my gums were receding-which I knew.  The
measurements were mostly 3s with some 4s and 5s. The dentist came poked
around and left-on to the next patient. She didn't even speak to
me/introduce herself.  I was told by the hygienist that I had a few
cavities, but we would take care of that after the scaling and root planing
for mild periodontal disease. I didn't like my experience and told the
hygienist I couldn't believe the dentist did not speak to me(was it even
the dentist?)
I spoke to my old dentist-he gave me a name for a periodontist that is in
my area-very wonderful experience as far as him explaining things to me,
etc...He measured and found measurements of 2s and 3s (actually he said
many were 1s) with some bleeding and 2 or 3 4s (measurement). He said I
have gingivitis and root planing and scaling was not needed-he scheduled an
appointment for a cleaning and to go over how to brush/floss etc.  He did
say that I have skin on my bottom lip area that is pulling my gums down and
has been for awhile causing them to recede.  Also he said I had thin gums-
and I probably created more problems by brushing too hard. Ultimately I
need gum grafting (sp?) on the bottom where I am having problems. He
explains everything, shows you,and describes in detail the problems, etc. I
felt very comfortable with the doctor and the whole experience-besides the
fact that I am sure it will cost a lot-waiting to hear what insurance will
cover and that I am not looking forward to gum surgery!!! What do you think?