FAQ
We hope you find answers to your questions in the following section. If you would like further information or have another question not mentioned below, please give us a call. We are always ready to help patients any way we can.
Question:
How does my dental insurance work?
Answer: Dental insurance is a contract between your employer and a dental insurance company. Dental insurance was not designed to pay for all dental services. In fact, most contracts have limits and/or various degrees of co-payments. We will gladly accept and file most dental insurance plans for you.
Question:
What is a Dental Implant?
Answer: A dental implant is a surgically placed titanium post that replaces a missing natural tooth. An implant is a wonderful alternative to a removable partial or fixed bridgework. It is the closest thing to getting your natural tooth back!
Question:
How often should I have a professional dental exam and cleaning?
Answer: The American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist and/or dental hygienist every 6 months. However, some people may require this service more often due to their individual periodontal condition.
Question:
What is Periodontal Disease?
Answer: Periodontal Disease is an infection of the gums and supporting tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontal Disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. It is estimated that more than 75% of the population is affected by periodontal disease.
Question:
How will I know if I need to take premed (an antibiotic) prior to my dental appointment?
Answer: Under certain medical conditions, such as a history of rheumatic fever, if you have had an artificial joint replacement or have been diagnosed with certain heart conditions, then you will need to premed. The American Heart Association recommends you take antibiotics prior to having any dental treatment. If you have any of these conditions, please check with your medical physician before your next dental visit.
Question:
At what age should my child start visiting the dentist?
Answer: Unless you notice a problem, your child's 1st dental visit should be at around age 3.
Question:
Can my teeth be whitened?
Answer: Absolutely! Tooth whitening, also known as bleaching, can dramatically improve your smile. However, don't be misled by ineffective over-the-counter whitening solutions. We now offer ZOOM whitening, an in office bleach procedure.
Question:
What is your policy on payment for dental appointments?
Answer: Payment for dental procedures is due at the time of service unless previous arrangements have been made with our staff. For your convenience we accept all major credit cards.
In addition, we partner with Care Credit financing for extensive treatment. They provide interest-free and long-term payment plans. For additional information, you can visit their website at www.carecredit.com or call them at 800-677-0718.
As always, we will also file your dental insurance for you and you will only be responsible for the portion not covered by your plan. If you have additional questions regarding our payment policies, please contact our financial coordinator, Judith Bidwell, at 901-755-7600.
Question:
What do I do if I have a dental emergency when the office is closed?
Answer: In case of a true dental emergency, please call our office as soon as possible. If we are closed, there will be a message directing you on how to reach Dr. Dugard.
Question:
How does Dr. Dugard keep up-to-date on all of the current dental technologies?
Answer: Dr. Dugard subscribes to the latest industry journals to keep tabs on research and development. He also takes time on a regular basis for continuing education classes and seminars, and he ensures that the staff does the same. As a team and as individuals, our office makes it our responsibility to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available.
Question:
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
Answer: Our entire practice team is well-trained in state-of-the-art OSHA sanitation techniques designed to ensure patient safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent passing germs and includes a specialized sterilization center and water line cleaning system. The office also subscribes to UT’s auto check system which ensures that our sterilization units are performing optimally.
Question:
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something I should be concerned about?
Answer: It is certainly not desirable to have bleeding gums following brushing. Bleeding gums can be caused by the following: improper or rough “scrubbing” instead of gentle circular brushing motions, using a hard bristled toothbrush instead of a soft one, plaque and/or tarter build-up below the gum line or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. If this problem persists despite correct brushing and flossing methods or occur every time you brush, contact our office immediately for an evaluation appointment.