HOW MAY I PAY FOR DENTAL TREATMENT, OR THE PORTION NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE?
You may pay by cash, check, debit card, or major credit card. We also accept financing through CareCredit.
WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE INSURANCE?
We welcome all patients regardless of insurance status. Please talk with our front desk staff about payment options.
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO SEE THE DENTIST?
We recommend a professional cleaning and examination every six months. Patients with gum disease may need to visit more frequently to manage the condition. Please call our office anytime you have a dental emergency, oral pain, or notice a soft tissue lesion. We will do our best to see you promptly.
WHEN SHOULD I START SCHEDULING APPOINTMENTS FOR MY BABY?
A good guideline is to set up an initial appointment within six months after the first tooth erupts, or by baby’s first birthday. Meanwhile, gums and teeth should be cleaned gently with a sanitary finger scrubber or washcloth.
SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO A PEDIATRIC DENTIST, OR A GENERAL DENTIST?
Pediatric dentists have specialized training and see only child patients; however, most children receive all the care they need from a general dentist. Many families find it convenient to schedule same-day appointments, and the dentist is familiar with family medical history. Also, you won’t have to switch dentists when your child becomes a teenager.
MY SMILE HAS BIG GAPS – HOW CAN THIS BE CORRECTED?
Every patient is different, but we offer several cosmetic treatments for this situation. If spaces are the result of missing teeth, dental implants, a bridge, or a partial denture may be in order. Teeth can be straightened with comfortable (and transparent!) removable aligners, or smaller gaps cosmetically addressed with bonding or veneers.
DOES WHITENING TOOTHPASTE WORK?
To a degree. Toothpastes rely on abrasives to scrub off stains, and chemicals to dissolve pigments. With continued use, toothpaste can whiten teeth a little; however, excessive use damages enamel. We offer safe teeth whitening options that work great even on coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco stains.
SHOULD I USE AN ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH?
That is a personal choice, and both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective when used correctly. We often suggest electric toothbrushes for patients with limited dexterity – children, the elderly, or someone with a physical disability.
HOW DO I KNOW IF SEDATION DENTISTRY IS FOR ME?
If you are in reasonably good health and feel nervous or fearful at the thought of a dental visit, you may be an ideal candidate. You remain conscious, but sedation helps you relax before and during the procedure. It can also be a good choice for patients who need extensive work done in one visit, have an active gag reflex, or have difficulty sitting for the length of treatment.
