FAQs

Typically, we recommend having a comprehensive examination and diagnostic digital radiographs completed before seeing our registered dental hygienist. This gives the dentist the necessary information to determine your oral condition and any treatment that may be needed. From there, our staff will book any necessary appointments and ensure that you are booked for your next re-care appointment based on the hygienist’s recommendations.

We do submit to most insurance companies. Our highly trained front desk team will be glad to answer any questions you may have about your insurance, but typically we recommend that you contact your plan administrator for details on your coverage since most plans can be quite different.

Typically the best option is a Dental Implant. Implants are made of titanium metal and are placed in the jawbone as an artificial root of a tooth. A crown or supported denture is then attached to the implant. This method, while being the best option, is also only available when you have enough bone structure to support the implant. Other possible options for missing teeth are Porcelain Bridges or Partial Dentures. Information on all these procedures can be seen in the Care section of the website.

Most of our patients are nervous at their first visit, so you’re not alone! Our warm and friendly atmosphere should make you feel relaxed as soon as you enter the front door. However, we do also offer Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) for those scary dental procedures. This is administered by the dentist and can be used for any dental appointment, even your hygiene. We don’t like when our patients are scared or distressed so we’ll do whatever is possible to help!

How often you go for dental exams depends on your oral health needs. The goal is to catch small problems early. For many people, this means a dental exam every six months. We may suggest that you visit more or less often depending on how well you care for your teeth and gums, problems you have that need to be checked or treated, how fast tartar builds up on your teeth, and so on.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I floss every day?
• Do I brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and follow my dentist's instructions on how to brush properly?
• Do I eat a well-balanced diet, including food from all food groups, and limit sweets and sticky foods?
• Do I smoke?
• Do I have a history of cavities or gum disease?
• Is my overall health good?

The answers to these questions are all factors that affect your oral health. They will help you and your dentist decide how often you need to visit for dental exams. It's worth noting that you should not determine your need for dental care based on what your dental plan covers.

How often you need to have x-rays depends on your oral health. A healthy adult who has not had cavities or other problems for a couple of years probably won't need x-rays at every appointment. If your dental situation is less stable and your dentist is monitoring your progress, you may require more frequent x-rays.

If you are not sure why a particular x-ray is being taken, ask your dentist. Remember that dental x-rays deliver very little radiation; they are a vital tool for your dentist to ensure that small problems don't develop into bigger ones.