FAQ

Yes, we are always delighted to welcome new patients and families to our practice!

Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive oral examination, any necessary digital X-rays (which use significantly less radiation), and an oral cancer screening. Depending on your oral health needs, a professional cleaning may also be performed at this visit or scheduled for a follow-up. We'll take the time to discuss your medical and dental history and address any concerns you may have.

Please plan for your first visit to last approximately 60-90 minutes to allow for a thorough examination and discussion.

Please bring your identification, dental insurance card (if applicable), and any relevant medical history or medication lists. You may also be able to complete new patient forms online prior to your visit to save time.

For most patients, we recommend visiting every six months for a routine check-up and professional cleaning. However, depending on your individual oral health needs, we may recommend more frequent visits.

We kindly request at least 24-48 hours' notice for any cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the appointment slot to another patient.

We believe in making quality dental care accessible. We offer various payment options, including cash, credit cards, and financing plans (e.g., CareCredit) to help you manage the cost of your treatment. Please discuss any financial concerns with our administrative team.

Absolutely. After your examination, we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan that outlines the recommended procedures and their associated costs. We'll also help you understand your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

Many dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, can develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Regular check-ups allow us to detect and address these issues early, often preventing more extensive and costly treatments down the road. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that at-home brushing and flossing can't, helping prevent cavities and gum inflammation.

We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, and flossing at least once a day, ideally before bed.

We generally recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush (manual or electric) and a fluoride toothpaste. We can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.

No, bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis (early gum disease). While it's important to continue brushing and flossing gently, you should also schedule an appointment so we can assess the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Bad breath can be caused by various factors, including food particles, bacteria buildup, dry mouth, and certain medical conditions. Regular brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and staying hydrated can help. If bad breath persists, please let us know so we can investigate the underlying cause.

Yes, modern digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation, significantly less than traditional film X-rays. We only take X-rays when necessary to diagnose and monitor your oral health.

If you experience a dental emergency such as severe pain, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken tooth, please call our office immediately. We will do our best to see you as soon as possible. For life-threatening emergencies, please go to the nearest emergency room.

If you have an urgent dental concern outside of our regular office hours, please call our main number, and follow the instructions to reach our on-call service or leave a message.