When making a referral decision, the following guidelines may help to know when a referral is appropriate:

1.

A patient presents with advanced symptoms

Some patients can present with an advanced level of deterioration. They may show significant gum recession, multiple missing teeth, mobility with many teeth and severe bleeding and pain. In some situations, a patient may be facing loss of teeth in a short space of time.

2.

Non-responsive patient conditions

Taking a patient from a state of disease to good health is, of course, professionally gratifying. While advances in general dentistry have meant that more issues can be treated non-surgically, it is important to recognise there a limitations in non-surgical options. A non-responsive patient may require a surgical approach to achieve desired outcomes. It’s important too for you to know that we make the patient aware that this is not the end of the relationship with you, but is simply a segue.

3.

You would like a second opinion

Derrick will happily consult with your patient before you commence with recommending a more complex treatment plan. This can be a wiser option than your patient going to another general dentist for a second opinion.

4.

A patient needs advanced surgical procedures

Procedures such as surgical implant placement, esthetic crown lengthening or gingival augmentation support your restorative treatment plans to achieve ideal patient outcomes. We understand that what we do will determine your results and we want to be a part of your team.