Do I need to arrive early for my first appointment?
We request that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This allows the staff time to review your patient forms so we may better serve you.
Will my insurance cover my dental visit?
Usually dental insurances will cover most if not all of the fee for a new patient appointment. After the initial appointment we can file for an estimate of benefits from your insurance company so you can plan for your out of pocket expense.
What can I expect for my first visit to your office?
Upon arriving our staff will review your information forms. Then one of the clinical staff will show you to an operatory where they will review your expectations. They will take your blood pressure & update any needed x-rays. This will be followed by a very thorough exam. Your dental concerns & any trouble areas will be discussed along with their solutions. Many times you will receive a dental prophylaxis the same day.
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
One of the first signs of gingivitis or periodontitis is bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. Other signs are loose or sore teeth, bad breath or taste.
What types of teeth whitening are available?
There are three basic types of teeth whitening systems. There are over the counter (OTC) systems from the pharmacy, dental office dispensed, and in office systems. They all work in a similar fashion. They all work best if started immediately after a dental cleaning.
If you choose an OTC system I recommend using only name brand systems not something that you saw on the internet.
I have provided patients with many different office dispensed & in office systems over the years. We are currently using the Kor whitening system. It has given us the best results by far. With the Kor system we start by making impressions of your teeth so custom trays can be fabricated. The whitening solution is placed in the trays & they are worn while sleeping. This is done nightly for about 2-4 weeks. Most patients will experience some tooth sensitivity. The Kor system supplies a desensitizer that works very well.
Darker teeth may need extended treatment to be combined with in office treatments.
All systems will require some periodic treatments to maintain the level of whitening.
Do I need a mouthguard?
I recommend athletic mouthguards for all sports where there is any chance of injury to the mouth. Custom made guards are very comfortable to wear & provide a higher level of protection than store bought guards. The use of guards can prevent costly injuries to the mouth & teeth.
Should I avoid certain foods after the procedure? For how long?
In general, if you have received anesthetic for your procedure, I recommend postponing eating until any numbness is gone. It is common for patients to injure their lips or tongue while eating while they are numb. You will be given complete after care instructions before you leave your appointment.
How frequently do I need to see the dentist for preventative care?
The frequency of care is dependent on the level of health of the mouth. If a patient is able to maintain healthy teeth & gums a preventive care appointment every 6 months is recommended. If someone struggles with gums disease &/or cavities a 3-4 month maintenance schedule may be needed.
I have a fear of the dentist, what can be done?
Many people experience anxiety when it comes to dental care. It is usually caused by one or multiple previous bad experiences in a dental office. My staff & I are very aware of this fact. We spend extra time understanding our patients' fears. We offer different levels of sedation for our anxious patients including nitrous oxide, oral & intravenous sedation.
