Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions #1: Why are checkups recommended every six months, even for people with great oral health?
We prefer to find cavities in the earliest stages, and often that means that you don’t see or feel them. Early detection allows us to provide the most conservative treatment, which saves you time, expense, and possible discomfort. We also screen for oral cancer, a disease that will affect more than 30-thousand Americans this year. Oral cancer is deadly, but early detection offers an 80-percentcure rate. Gum disease is another sneaky problem that we try to catch early. It has been linked to stroke, heart attack, osteoporosis, and other health risks, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults.
Frequently Asked Questions #2: How do you look out for the safety of your patients?
Very well, actually! In addition to following guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA, we use disposable products as often as possible. Between each patient visit, we thoroughly clean treatment rooms and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Because we value safety, we have invested in a digital radiograph, which emits about 80% less radiation that a traditional X-ray machine. We also use intraoral cameras and photography for close-up images, which promotes accurate diagnoses. If you have questions about our safety and sterilization methods, call us. We’ll answer your questions with enthusiasm because we love dentistry and our patients.
Frequently Asked Questions #3: My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call us for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
Frequently Asked Questions #4: Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
You can review our services page for more information. If you have any frequently asked questions about these or other dental procedures, don’t hesitate to call. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions #5: What are crowns in an hour and a half?
With innovative CEREC technology, we can create custom crowns, inlays, and onlays in one visit. This means that you can get a custom-made, all-white, reliable restorations quickly. No temporary. No follow-up visit. It’s that simple.
Frequently Asked Questions #6: I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?
Many people fear dental visits because of negative past experiences or control issues. We understand dental anxiety and offer a solution to help you overcome your stress. With oral conscious sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions #7: I have not been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?
First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize dental healthcare. Your mouth is a big part of your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem. We will not judge you, but help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, then scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions #8: What is a cosmetic dentist?
Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, so any general dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To choose a good cosmetic dentist, review the doctor’s before-and-after photos of actual cases, ask about his or her postgraduate education in cosmetic dentistry, and make sure that you feel confident and comfortable in the office.
Frequently Asked Questions #9: How can you improve my smile?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn’t! Your smile is unique, and we won’t compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Lumineers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we’ll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging for smile previews, as well.
Frequently Asked Questions #10: My teeth are stained. Can you help?
Yes. We offer whitening solutions to brighten teeth dramatically at home or in our office. Call for an appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions #11: How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign clear braces. Read more about these procedures in our services area.
Frequently Asked Questions #12: Will you see my kids and my grandparents?
Yes! We love families and see many of them. Our services are diverse, so we offer dentures for our older patients, as well as sealants for our youngest patients. Call to schedule comprehensive initial exams for everyone in your family – because their smiles are invaluable family assets!
Frequently Asked Questions #13: Do you accept dental insurance?
We file all insurance and are in network with most plans. For more information, call us.
Frequently Asked Questions #14: Does my insurance cover that?
Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50 percent or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. For the most part, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. However, we prefer not to allow dental insurance coverage to dictate your oral healthcare. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. We accept CareCredit and all major credit cards to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of his patients. If you have questions, give us a call. We’ll be happy to tell you what your insurance may cover.
Frequently Asked Questions #15: What payment methods do you accept, and what are your financing options?
We accept cash, checks, credit cards, and we also work with CareCredit, a trusted name in patient financing.
