FAQs

You Have Questions... We Have Answers

What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

We follow strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and OSHA. Our practices include sterilizing reusable instruments in an autoclave, then sealing them for the next use; disinfecting treatment rooms between patient visits; and using disposable products when possible. We always wear disposable gloves during exams and treatment, for your safety.

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!

Will you care for my entire family?

Absolutely. We enjoy creating gorgeous, healthy smiles for patients of any age. If we find that your child – or you, for that matter – would benefit from seeing a specialist, we'll refer to a trusted colleague. Some children deal with dental appointments better at a pedodontist's office, that's what a children's dentist is called. We also refer patients who have extensive dental problems, like advanced periodontitis or problematic root canals, to a specialist for optimal care. As a general dentist office, our preventive, restorative, prosthetic, and cosmetic dental services include treatments suitable for patients of all ages.

Do you refer patients to specialists?

While we are trained and equipped to handle many dental issues in our office, when a specialist would better serve you, we'll refer. Some dental specialists are oral surgeons, periodontists (supporting structures), endodontists (internal tooth problems), orthodontists (for moving teeth), and pedodontists (for children). We refer to only trusted professionals with whom we have a good rapport.

Do you work well with children?

Our doctors have many years of experience treating patients of all ages. Our gentle techniques and inviting atmosphere are perfect for putting children at ease. For a special treat, visit Dr. Mark Kaschube, otherwise known as “The Magic Dentist.” He’s sure to get your children smiling!

How can I safely whiten my teeth?

We offer custom-made take-home trays with professional whitening gel for safe and effective teeth whitening in the comfort of your own home. Home whitening yields excellent results – up to eight shades or better! Two weeks of use produces optimal results, but if your teeth reach the desired shade before then, simply discontinue treatment.

I want straighter teeth, but do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign. Read more about these procedures in our services area.

My smile is missing teeth. What do you suggest I do?

You'll need to first schedule a consultation with the dentist. He can assess your oral health and discuss options for replacement teeth. In general, you can choose from crown and bridgework, partial or full dentures, or dental implants. As the most natural prosthetic to natural tooth structure, a dental implant offers the most long-lasting, comfortable, natural-looking choice.

What are crowns in an hour?

With innovative CEREC technology, we can create custom crowns, inlays, and onlays in about an hour. This means that in just one visit, you can get a custom-made, all-white, reliable restoration. No temporary. No follow-up visit. It's that simple.

Why are checkups recommended every six months, even for people with great oral health?

We use DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection to find cavities in the earliest stages, and often that means that you don't see or feel them. Early detection allows us to provide the most conservative treatment, which saves you time, expense, and possible discomfort. We also screen for oral cancer, a disease that will affect more than 30-thousand Americans this year. Oral cancer is deadly, but early detection offers an 80-percent cure rate. Gum disease is another sneaky problem that we try to catch early. It has been linked to stroke, heart attack, osteoporosis, and other health risks, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults.

Why do some dentists do extractions and root canals, while others refer patients to specialists?

Every general dentist receives a similar education in dental school. However, general dentists can choose which continuing education courses to take each year. Some dentists learn advanced techniques for root canals, dental implants, and laser dentistry, while others focus on administration and practice management. In addition, each dentist has his or her area of expertise. Some prefer to send root canal patients to endodontists for better care, while others enjoy root canals and have invested in the tools and training to perform them regularly.

Insurance is very confusing. Can your office administrator help me file?

Yes. We understand your confusion and have an expert on staff to help you. Simply bring your card or claim into our office, or call to speak with our friendly insurance assistant.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Our practice files as an out-of-network provider on all plans except the Delta Dental PPO network. As a courtesy, we will file claims and accept assignment of benefits. Please call our office with any questions.

What payment methods do you accept, and what are your financing options?

For your convenience, we accept cash, check, and major credit cards, including MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express. Third-party financing is available through CareCredit for qualified applicants.

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

If you have visited our office in the past year, call our on-call phone number, available on our answering machine. New patients should go to the emergency room or visit us when the office is open.