Frequently asked questions
Click on a question below to expand the answer.
How much is a cleaning?
Because our patients have different needs, we have a range of services available. After the initial comprehensive exam, our doctors will study the data and develop a treatment plan based specifically on your needs. This plan is presented to you at your second visit—and will include treatment specifics, such as fees.
Are you taking new patients?
Yes! We love our patients and we are always looking to meet new smiling faces.
Do you take my insurance?
Yes, as long as your company allows you to choose your own dentist. We are an out-of network or unrestricted dentist.
Do you see children?
Children are some of our favorite patients, and we welcome them in our office at around age 3. Our main goal is for your child to be comfortable in our office, so we work to gradually build a positive relationship with them. If your very young child is already apprehensive, or has had a bad experience in another practice, we may refer him/her to a pediatric dentist for treatment.
Do you see adults?
We pride ourselves for seeing patients of all ages, 3 to 103. We see single patients, families and even several generations of a family.
How much is a "cap" or a crown?
Depending on the needs of our patients, there is a range of fees for our crowns. While crowns do require an investment on the part of the patient, we work to find ways to make payments comfortable for our patients, and offer several different options, such as a cash discount and payment plans with our financial partner, Care Credit.
What is a veneer?
In dentistry, a veneer is a thin layer of restorative material placed over a tooth surface, either to improve the aesthetics of a tooth, or to protect a damaged tooth surface. There are two main types of material used to fabricate a veneer, composite and dental porcelain.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is the grinding or clamping of the jaws and teeth that occurs outside of normal function and is frequently caused by physiological stress. The forces that can be generated will cause wear and fractures of natural tooth surfaces, crowns or other restorations.
Do you put on braces?
Our doctors specialize in the care and maintenance of your teeth. If you would benefit from teeth movement, orthodontics, they will refer you to some of the best orthodontists around and work closely with that doctor to help you achieve optimal results.
Is fluoride good or bad? Isn't that what stains our teeth?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in our water. It is also one of the ions that make up the structure of teeth. When too much fluoride is present while teeth are forming (from prenatal to about age 6), fluoride can cause staining of the enamel. After the teeth are formed, however, fluoride provides a real benefit, lessening sensitivity and strengthening the enamel layer of the teeth.
What causes cavities?
Because our mouths are open to the outside world, we all have bacteria present in our mouths. This bacterium, in the presence of sugar or foods that convert to sugar, produces an acid which weakens the enamel layer of teeth. When the enamel layer is weakened enough for the bacteria to break through to the softer layer underneath, the damage is classified as dental caries, also known as tooth decay or a cavity.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease or periodontal disease, describes the events that begin with bacterial growth in your mouth and may end -- if not properly treated -- with tooth loss due to destruction of the tissue (gums and bone) that surrounds your teeth.
I've heard in the news that problems in your mouth can cause heart problems. How?
The bacteria found in periodontal disease can enter the circulatory system in the tissues of your mouth and travel systemically throughout your body. Studies have shown that this bacterium is often the same type of bacteria found in diseased hearts.
I'm really scared of dentists. Can you help me?
Yes! Our motto is "Dentistry with a Smile". We strive to provide an atmosphere in our office that is warm and friendly. By getting to know you and the concerns and fears you might have, we endeavor to provide for your dental needs while keeping you secure and comfortable. If needed, our doctor's are trained to use nitrous oxide (or "laughing gas") to help you relax. We also can provide conscious sedation to lessen anxiety if needed.
What are some good products to help care for teeth?
There are many great dental products on the market. One best bet is to look for the seal of acceptance from the American Dental Society (ADA). Some of the products that we recommend most often are Sonicare toothbrushes (made by Phillips), ACT fluoride rinse, and products which contain sugar substitutes, like Xylitol. For instance, if you chew gum, use sugar free gums with Xylitol listed as first ingredient, like IceBreaker Ice Cubes or Spry.
