Question 1

How are appointments scheduled?

Accepted Answer

We strive to accommodate your schedule when booking appointments. Dental visits are considered valid reasons for school absences. Regular dental care can help minimize the need for frequent absences. We reserve specific time slots for each patient and kindly request adequate notice for cancellations. We understand that unexpected events may occur in daily life and appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

Question 2

What is due at the time of the visit?

Accepted Answer

As a courtesy, we file claims with your participating insurance for your child's dental treatment. However, any remaining balance after insurance discounts is due when treatment is provided. For non-participating insurance, payment is required at the time of service. We accept various payment methods including cash, personal checks, major credit cards, and Care Credit. Complimentary parking is available on-site. We encourage your child to join our 'No Cavity Club'!

Question 3

What is the best time for orthodontic treatment?

Accepted Answer

Malocclusions, or improper bites, can be identified as early as 2-3 years of age. Early intervention can often reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later in life.

Question 4

What are space maintainers?

Accepted Answer

Space maintainers are devices that preserve the gap left by a lost tooth, preventing shifting until the permanent tooth emerges. This approach is more cost-effective and less invasive than orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth later. To care for space maintainers, avoid sticky sweets and gum, refrain from pulling on the device, maintain good oral hygiene, and continue regular dental check-ups.

Question 5

Why are the primary teeth so important?

Accepted Answer

Primary teeth play a crucial role in a child's development. They facilitate proper chewing and eating, provide space for permanent teeth, guide them into the correct position, and support normal jaw and muscle development. They also contribute to speech development and facial aesthetics. Front teeth typically last until age 6-7, while back teeth remain until age 10-13.

Question 6

What is conscious sedation and why is it used?

Accepted Answer

Conscious sedation is a technique used to relax a child while maintaining consciousness. It helps calm anxious children, allowing them to accept dental treatment more easily. This approach can prevent potential injuries and create a more suitable environment for delivering quality dental care, especially since it's challenging to perform procedures on a restless child.

Question 7

Do I stay with my child during visits?

Accepted Answer

We recommend allowing your child to accompany our staff through the dental experience. Our team is well-versed in helping children overcome anxiety. While separation anxiety is common, it typically diminishes over time. Parents or guardians are welcome in treatment rooms, but we've found that most children over 3 years old respond positively when experiencing the visit independently in our child-friendly environment.

Question 8

How will financial considerations be addressed?

Accepted Answer

Payment for professional services is expected at the time of treatment. We provide treatment plans as needed and promptly file insurance claims. For your convenience, we accept various payment methods including cash, personal checks, and major credit cards.

Question 9

What is the office policy on dental insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

We file insurance claims as a courtesy once we have all necessary information on the day of your appointment. Please note that we are not responsible for how your insurance processes claims or their coverage percentage. We're happy to help estimate your portion of the treatment cost. Remember that no insurance covers 100%, benefits are determined by your insurance provider, and deductibles and co-payments should be considered.

Question 10

When should I expect my child's teeth to erupt?

Accepted Answer

Tooth formation begins before birth. The first primary teeth, typically lower incisors, usually emerge around 4 months, followed by upper central incisors. While all 20 primary teeth generally appear by age 3, the timing and order can vary. Permanent teeth start to appear around age 6, beginning with first molars and lower central incisors. This process continues until about age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth, or up to 32 including wisdom teeth.

Noor A. Shamim DMD

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