FAQs

How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?

We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential issues. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth and make sure your gums are healthy and strong.

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How do you look out for the safety of your patients?

Very well, actually! In addition to following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA, we use disposable products as often as possible. Between each patient visit, we thoroughly clean treatment rooms and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Because we value safety, we've invested in a digital X-ray machine, which emits about 80% less radiation than a traditional radiography. We also use intraoral cameras for close-up images, which promote accurate diagnoses. If you have questions about our safety and sterilization methods, call our Pasco dental office. We'll answer your questions with enthusiasm because we love dentistry and our patients!

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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 brushing too hard or 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 alleviate your symptoms. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults and has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can cause significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We'll help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!

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Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?

Our patient library is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our Services page for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call our dental office in Pasco. We'd be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.

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What are my options to replace missing teeth?

We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and dental implants to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our Services page, then call for a consultation. With digital X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your teeth, your dentist can help you decide which replacement option is best for you.

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I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?

Many people fear dental visits. It's a common phobia. We understand dental anxiety and offer a solution to help you overcome your stress. With oral conscious sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.

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I haven't been to the dentist in years, and I'm ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?

First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize dental healthcare. Your mouth is a big part of your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem. We'll never judge you. Instead, we'll help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, and scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.

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How can I improve my smile?

That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we'll discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white fillings or crowns, and/or replacement teeth. Invisalign may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a treatment plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging and wax ups for smile previews, as well.

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My teeth are stained. Can you help?

Yes. We offer Zoom! Whitening, the leading teeth whitening system, to dramatically brighten smiles in a single visit.

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How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?

Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign clear braces. Read more about these procedures on our Services page, and then call for an appointment today!

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Does my insurance cover that?

Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50% or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. Generally, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic dentistry is not usually covered. We offer CareCredit third-party financing to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of our patients. If you have questions, give us a call. We'll be happy to tell you what your insurance will cover.

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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 specialist for optimal care. As a general dentist office, our preventive dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry services include treatments suitable for patients of all ages.

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