Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use? A: The brand of the toothbrush is not as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. A soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended because medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and contribute to recession of the gums, and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. It's unnecessary to "scrub" the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings.
Q: Is one toothpaste better than others? A: Generally, no. However, it's advisable to use a fluoride containing toothpaste to decrease the incidence of dental decay. We recommend our patients use what tastes good to them as long as it contains fluoride.
Q: How often should I floss? A: Flossing of the teeth once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy.
Q: What's the difference between a "crown" and a "cap"? A: These are restorations to repair a severely broken tooth by covering all or most of the tooth after removing old fillings, fractured tooth structure, and all decay. The restoration material is made of gold, porcelain, composites, or even stainless steel. Dentists refer to all of these restorations as "crowns". However, patients often refer to the tooth-colored ones as "caps" and the gold or stainless steel ones as "crowns".
Q: What's the difference between a "bridge" and a "partial denture"? A: Both bridges and partial dentures replace missing teeth. A bridge is permanently attached to abutment teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and is easily removed by the patient. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures.
Q: What about "silver" fillings versus "white" fillings? A: Although the U.S. Public Health Service issued a report in 1993 stating there is no health reason not to use amalgam (silver fillings), more patients today are requesting "white" or tooth-colored composite fillings. We also prefer tooth-colored fillings because they "bond" to the tooth structure and therefore help strengthen a tooth weakened by decay. White fillings are also usually less sensitive to temperature, and they also look better. However, "white" fillings cannot be used in every situation, and if a tooth is very badly broken-down, a crown will usually be necessary and provide better overall satisfaction for the patient.
Q: Do I need to have a root canal just because I have to have a crown? A: No. While most teeth which have had root canal treatments do need crowns to strengthen the teeth and to return the teeth to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal.
Q: Does your office have a payment plan? A: Payment in full is due at the time services are rendered. Outside financing is available through CareCredit. CareCredit offers a full range of payment plans that allow you to finance 100% of your dental care. So, you can begin your treatment today and conveniently pay with low, monthly payments.
Q: What if I miss a scheduled dental appointment? A: If you fail to show up for a scheduled appointment or fail to cancel with-in 24 hours of your appointment, you will not be re-scheduled and you will be seen on a walk-in basis only. Keep in mind, a walk-in does not guarantee treatment.
Q: Does my insurance cover all my costs? A: Benefits vary depending on the carrier. If Dr. Campbell is not a participating provider your benefit level will typically be lower than an in-network provider. In addition, any amount beyond your insurance maximum or any billed procedure not covered or paid for by your insurance is your responsibility. We will be happy to help you figure out your cost once a treatment plan has been written. Q: How will I know if a procedure is covered by my insurance? A: Nothing is guaranteed until a claim is submitted. We do our best to provide an accurate estimate of your out-of-pocket expenses. The best way to confirm that a procedure is covered is to submit a pre-determination (Pre-D). The insurance will then approve or reject the treatment. Most insurance carriers recommend a Pre-D for procedures over $300. The Pre-D can be submtted upon your request. |