Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the doctor keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?
Dr. Howard subscribes to the latest industry journals to stay current on the latest developments in dentistry. Along with the rest of our staff, he also attends a number of continuing education courses. In short, we make it our business to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials.
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2. How do I know when it’s time to come in for a check-up?
Because plaque hardens into tartar and causes gingivitis, it’s wise for healthy adults to have a professional cleaning and check-up every six months. Twice-daily brushing and flossing can help maintain a healthy mouth, but professional check-ups every six months can help prevent potential problems.
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3. At what age should my children first see a dentist?
Children should make their first visit to a dentist about six months after their first teeth appear, generally around their first birthday. This initial visit gives the dentist an opportunity to identify any particular problems, and the child a positive, non-threatening experience. In our office, children younger than three years receive a complimentary check-up and a ride in the chair. Because early detection is as important for children as it is for adults, we encourage parents to make regular dental checkups part of their child’s health care.
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4. Do you accept my insurance plan?
We accept most major insurance plans and will file your claims for you. We also are a preferred provider for Delta Dental Insurance.
If you have questions about your insurance or other financial options, please talk with our office staff. They will be happy to help you.
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5. My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been knocked out. What do I do?
If there is no medical emergency, such as uncontrolled bleeding, unconsciousness or other bodily injury, please contact our office immediately to see Dr. Howard as soon as possible. Simply describe the situation over the phone and we will help you determine the safest and most appropriate plan of action.
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6. What different payment options do you provide?
We accept cash, checks and major credit cards, including MasterCard and Visa. We are a preferred provider for Delta Dental Insurance and accept most major insurance plans. Plus, we will file your claims for you. We offer one-year, no-interest financing through CareCredit If you have questions about your insurance or other financial options, please talk with our office staff.
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7. What makes you different from any other dental practice I can visit?
We are committed to offering high-quality family dentistry, and deliver on that commitment by staying current with the latest developments in dentistry and treating our patients like family. When you become a patient of our practice, we think of you as a person, not just another set of teeth to fix and clean. We want to help you and your family achieve and maintain the best possible oral health, so we take the time to understand your dental history and evaluate the best options for your particular dental needs. We also will help you understand preventive care through thorough patient education.
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8. I really do not like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?
The comfortable atmosphere in our office and our experienced staff help most people relax. We also offer relaxation aids such as warm blankets, TVs and DVD's, and the choice of your favorite music. For more complex procedures, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or relaxation dentistry, where a simple pill will help you relax.
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9. Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials…where can I learn more about these procedures?
Our website is designed to provide you with comprehensive information about the services we offer, but if you’d like even more information, please click on the following link to visit the American Dental Association website.
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10. I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What can you recommend?
Modern dentistry offers a number of options for a more beautiful smile without wearing unsightly braces. Sometimes, crooked or unevenly worn teeth only need a bit of reshaping and some porcelain veneers for a bright, uniform look. In other cases, it’s possible for “invisible” braces to be attached behind the front teeth. If you would like information on how your smile can be enhanced, please call our office for an appointment to evaluate your particular needs.
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