Patient Education

We do our best to answer your questions when you're with us at the office. But, we realize that's not always convenient for you. So we've compiled here a list of our most commonly asked questions, with answers designed to help you understand our practice and philosophy.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Our office accepts assignment for a large number of insurance companies. In fact, you don't even have to find out if we're on your company's 'list'. We’re well-versed in the latest coverage trends, and are more than happy to discuss the particulars of your plan with you prior to any treatments you may undergo.

What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

In case of a dental emergency call or office number and follow the menu options and you will be automatically connected to our emergency service. We are always on call, so one of staff members will return your call promptly and arrange to see you if needed.

My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?

If your child’s tooth is knocked out during office hours, but there is no imminent medical emergency such as uncontrolled bleeding, unconsciousness, or other bodily injury, please contact us immediately. Simply describe the situation over the phone and our office staff will help you determine the safest and most appropriate plan of action. We also recommend that you locate, rinse off, and replace the tooth back into its socket. If this isn't possible, place it in a glass of milk until you can get to our office.

I really don't like visiting the dentist. What can you do to help me relax?

We understand how anxious many people can be about visiting the dentist. That's why we strive to create a relaxing atmosphere. For example, we take the time to get to know you, understand your concerns, and help alleviate them. If necessary, we offer nitrous oxide or a prescription oral sedative prior to treatments for patients who are extremely anxious or where the procedure is very complex. When you come in for your evaluation, just let us know how you're feeling, and we'll work together with you to put you completely at ease.

Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, partials… can you explain more about what these procedures mean?

With today's technology, materials, and advanced techniques, we have many options for restoring weak, broken, chipped, discolored, and/or crooked teeth…bringing them back to their original shape and function.

For example, we can apply an all-porcelain crown, somewhat like a 'cap', that covers the entire outside of the problem tooth. Crowns are also helpful to cover large areas of decay after they've been filled. Or, for large decayed or damaged surface chewing areas requiring less restoration, we can apply a protective covering/filling or "onlay" made of either precious metal, or composite resin material, thereby adding strength and preventing decay. If you need fillings, we can use porcelain 'inlays' instead of silver amalgam… actually strengthening the tooth and protecting it against further fracture.

Similarly, we can restore cracked, discolored, crooked or otherwise unattractive front teeth to pretty, natural shapes and shades by applying paper-thin porcelain veneers to the fronts.

I want my front teeth to look better, but I don't want to wear braces, what can you do to help?

We have a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth without the use of 'traditional' braces. Before discussing options that involve removal of tooth structure (porcelain veneers or crowns), however, we do suggest that patients simply have an evaluation appointment with an orthodontist.  Sometimes, in the long run, you may be surprised at how a little moving and whitening can actually provide excellent long-term results. And with today's invisible braces, no one has to know that you're doing anything to your teeth!

If this isn't a workable option for you, then we can also discuss the impact of a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns, designed to give teeth a new, bright, uniform look. Either way, we’d be happy to consult with you about the appearance of your front teeth and create a treatment plan to accomplish your objectives.

We're here to make your dental experience the best it can be.
Make your appointment today