Getting Started
First and foremost, should you have a dental emergency or you have concerns about a dental situation that might become an emergency, let us know immediately when you call. Otherwise your first appointment will be for a thorough exam and digital X-rays. All calls deemed an emergency will be managed with the utmost urgency.
Insurance or No Insurance, Is there a Difference?
We work with these financial issues every day. There is Care Credit for both of these situations. Care Credit can help many patients with their financial obligations.
First Appointment
First of all, thank you for selecting us as you dental office/team. Paper work will involve health questionnaires, your previous dental history. We appreciate the input of your dental concerns and needs. We must cover the financial responsibilities, and required regulatory information. We can mail you these forms to save you time at the office.
Initial Exam
There is a thorough exam of the soft and hard tissues of the face and neck that are involved with chewing. It is also a Cancer Screening Exam. Depending on your X-ray history, additional digital radiographs will be taken. To save you time and unneeded appointments, a PSR Periodontal Exam will be done to determine what type of hygiene (cleaning) visit you will need. And, of course, a complete charting or existing teeth and restoration. We can schedule simple treatments or we will set you up for a free consultation for more complex issues.
Getting Your Teeth “Cleaned”
You can keep your teeth for the rest of your life. We know so much more now about how different people’s gums are. And, we have very specific plans for your special needs. We have professional hygienists on staff to help get your teeth “cleaned”. Your first hygiene visit will determine what type of hygiene schedule you will need to be successful.
It Hurts. What Can I Do till I Get to the Dentist?
A glass of body temperature water can sometimes take away the effects of pain cause by cold, heat, sweets or acids. In other situations, cold or heat may make it feel better. If it hurts to chew, stay away from it. Over the counter pain medications can also help.
Why Won’t My “Insurance” Pay for This?
All insurance plans are different and varied. It depends on the level of coverage and the company that you have your Insurance with. Some insurance companies cover simple palliative care and others comprehensive preventive. We will work with your insurance and you to arrive at the best solution for all parties involved.
Flossing
The majority of people neglect the daily flossing their teeth. We highly recommend this process to maintain your dental hygiene. Flossing assists and enhances your brushing; simply brushing does not reach all areas that need stimulation and cleaning.
“My Gums Feel Fine”
90% of dental problems, you can’t feel any infection or decay that is active, you may have a bad taste or smell. A dental professional can explain what to look for in gums appearance. Waiting until you feel something can be expensive, it is sometimes extremely uncomfortable, and long term periodontal issues can over time lead to tooth loss.