The First Appointment
If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, we offer a cosmetic consultation to all new patients. During the consultation appointment, we will discuss your cosmetic options for creating your new smile. For general dental patients, at your first visit, all areas of your mouth will be thoroughly examined. This process will include a detailed examination of the teeth, soft tissue, and supporting structures, biting function, and more. A complete set of x-rays will be taken and models of your teeth will be made if necessary. All the information we obtain will be carefully evaluated so that we may accurately assess your dental needs and create a dental treatment plan designed just for you.
Preventive Oral Hygiene Appointment
After your examination, our hygienists will provide you with a thorough, very gentle, comfortable dental cleaning. At this time, your hygienist will share with you all of the latest theories and techniques for controlling dental disease. Specific approaches will be recommended for your individual needs, to help you receive maximum longevity from your natural dentition. We consider this session to be one of the most valuable services we offer to our patients.
Dental Evaluation and Plan for Treatment
After your preventive appointment, we will explain your dental evaluation and plan for treatment. Immediate needs as well as long term objectives will be based on the goal of you receiving the maximum life and enjoyment of your natural teeth.
Financial Arrangements
Payment is expected at the time services are performed. We accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. When extensive dental care is necessary or when dental insurance is involved, financial arrangements can be made with our office manager. Please inquire about our financing plans. Our primary concern is your dentistry. Nonetheless, we will be sensitive to your financial circumstances within the framework of sound business practices.
 A Word about Dental Insurance
Our accounting department will prepare all of the necessary forms for this important benefit. However, we remind you that your policy is an agreement between you and your insurance company, not between your insurance company and our office. We can make no guarantee of any estimated coverage, but we'll do our best to see that you receive your maximum benefits. Please keep in mind that you are responsible for your total obligation should your insurance benefits result in less coverage than anticipated. If you would like to know what your expected coverage will be, we will submit a pre-treatment estimate. Your insurer will generally send a detailed response within 4-6 weeks.
Cosmetic Dentistry and Insurance
Cosmetic dentistry procedures are generally not covered by most dental insurance policies; however, partial benefits are often available if the teeth are broken or have previous dental fillings, bonding, or crowns. Also, most insurance companies will pay approximately 80% of the cost for silver fillings on posterior (molar and bicuspid) teeth. If a more expensive porcelain or tooth colored filling material is used, the insurance company usually still pays their percentage based on the cost of the less expensive silver filling. |
