FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions
- Office/Financial Questions
- Oral Health Questions
- Restorative/Replacement Teeth Questions
- Cosmetic Questions
- Comfort and Technology Questions
- Emergency Questions
Office/Financial Questions
Q. What can I expect at my first visit?
“How can we make you smile today?”
When you call to schedule an appointment, we make every effort to be as compassionate and accommodating as possible. If you have dental insurance, we ask that you have that information available when you call. In an attempt to alleviate any concerns you may have about your benefits, we will contact your insurance company for you.
Upon arriving at Hudec Dental, you will be welcomed by our friendly staff. If this is your first visit with us, you will be asked to complete a new patient information packet. For your convenience, these forms are also available to download and print.
At your first appointment, the dentist will do a complete examination and discuss the treatment options that will best suit your dental needs. Our staff will review your treatment plan with you and schedule your next appointment. Before you leave, you will receive a complete breakdown of the fees involved, what your expected insurance benefits will be, and the payment and financing options available to you.
What to bring to your first appointment:
- Completed Patient Information Form
- Copy of Notice of Privacy Policy/HIPPA
- Signed Copy of Authorization Form
- Your Insurance card
Q. Can I finance my dental work?
We have partnered with CareCredit and Capital One Healthcare Finance, two trusted names in third-party financing, in order to make dentistry more affordable. CareCredit offers revolving credit, low monthly payments, and no interest for up to 12 months for patients who qualify. Visit the CareCredit and Capital One websites to fill out an online application.
Q. I have not 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 will not judge you, but help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, then scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.
Q. Will you see my kids and my grandparents?
Yes! We love families and see many of them. Our services are diverse, so we offer dentures for our older patients, as well as sealants for our youngest patients. Call to schedule comprehensive initial exams for everyone in your family – because their smiles are invaluable family assets!
Q. Do you accept referrals?
Yes, and thank you for your confidence. We appreciate your referrals and promise to extend the same comprehensive, caring service to your friends and coworkers that we give you every time you visit.
Q. Does my insurance cover that?
Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50 percent or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. For the most part, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. We accept CareCredit and CapitalOne Healthcare Finance to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of his patients. Learn more about insurance and financing on our financial information page.
Oral Health Questions
Q. 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!
Q. Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
Yes! Floss loosens food particles, plaque, and tartar trapped between teeth. In addition to irritating gums, causing gum disease, and promoting cavities, these three culprits cause bad breath. If you need help learning how to floss quickly and effectively, our hygienist will gladly teach you some tricks to make your daily oral care easier.
Q. I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
Chronic headaches may be a symptom of a misaligned bite, bruxism (grinding), or TMJ disorder. Our dentist will carefully examine your occlusion (bite), jaw, head, and neck to determine the underlying causes of your pain. Oftentimes, we can correct the problem with a custom nightguard. Call our office if you have more questions about headache relief with non-surgical therapies.
Restorative/Replacement Teeth Questions
Q. What are my options to replace missing teeth?
We offer bridgework, dentures, and implant restorations to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our services page, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, the dentist can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.
Q. What is a Root Canal?
Root Canal treatment is the removal of the tooth pulp from the inside of the tooth and the canals of the roots. After the pulp has been removed, and the canals of the root have been cleaned out, the tooth must be filled and sealed down to the tip of the root(s) to prevent infection.
Cosmetic Questions
Q. 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 unnecessary smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Lumineers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging for smile previews, as well.
Q. Are there differences between over-the-counter teeth whiteners and professional teeth whiteners?
Over-the-counter whiteners are not as efficient as professional-grade treatments. The whitening kits you buy at the drugstore are not customized to fit the shape of your teeth, making them messy and ineffective. In addition, they typically only whiten two to three shades. With professional teeth whitening you have more options. You can visit our office and receive a one-hour deep bleaching whitening treatment that will leave your teeth up to 10 shades whiter. We also have home teeth whitening kits that are custom designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. Each night for a week or two you’ll need to apply our professional-grade whitening gel to the trays, and then wear them at night. Within just a few days, you’ll notice a difference, and by the time treatment is complete, you’ll smile with confidence. Take-home trays can also touch up and maintain in-office whitening.
Q. What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
Lumineers are actually a brand of veneers that requires minimal or no tooth preparation prior to placement. Some patients prefer Lumineers because of the quick application and reduced risk for sensitivity. However, others prefer traditional veneers because of their completely customized design.
Comfort and Technology Questions
Q. I do not like drills. Are there any other options?
We offer air abrasion, an alternative to the traditional dental drill. With air abrasion, a stream of air and tiny abrasive particles whisk away decay. Because the tool emits no vibration, heat, or noise, the factors that cause pain associated with a dental drill, most patients don't even need anesthetic.
Q. What is sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a form of anesthesia used for fearful patients or lengthy procedures. It may be administered by pill or through an IV. Although our patients are not unconscious under sedation, they are in a complete state of relaxation. While under sedation, your vital signs will be monitored to ensure your safety.
Q. Who should consider sedation dentistry?
Candidates for sedation dentistry are people who are anxious or afraid, have had traumatic dental experiences in the past, or have difficulty getting numb. Other candidates are those with a bad gag reflex, very sensitive teeth, complex dental problems, or those who have limited time for dental care.
Q. What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
When compared to traditional radiography, digital X-rays emit 80-percent less radiation. Detailed images are immediately available for view on a chairside monitor in the operatory. We can transfer digital X-rays and photographs quickly via the Internet to insurance companies and specialists, as well. Digital X-rays require no hazardous developing chemicals, so they're earth friendly!
Emergency Questions
Q. 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. You can also review our emergency care page for more information.