Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most. If yours is not here, call us at (941) 877-5262 and we will be glad to help.
Insurance & Payment
Which dental insurance do you accept?
We file claims for all PPO dental plans. We are in network with Delta Dental Premier only, and other PPO plans are handled as out-of-network benefits.
Will you file my insurance claim for me?
Yes. We send the claim to your PPO plan after your visit. Our insurance coordinator can also look up your benefits and help you get the most from them.
How much will my insurance cover?
It depends on your plan and the procedure you need. Call us with your insurance details and we can look into your coverage before your appointment.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available through CareCredit, Cherry, Wisetack and Proceed Finance. Each company reviews applications and sets its own terms, and applying involves a credit check.
What if I do not have insurance?
You can still be seen here. New patients can use our $130 special for an exam, full-mouth X-rays and a cleaning in the absence of periodontal disease.
Do you charge for second opinions?
No. Second opinions are free at our office. We also offer a free dental implant consultation.
First Visit
What happens at my first appointment?
A first visit usually includes a full set of X-rays, a comprehensive exam and, if your gums are healthy, a cleaning. Your dentist then explains what they found and talks through any next steps.
What should I bring?
Bring your insurance card, a photo ID, a list of your medications and your completed patient forms. If you have recent dental X-rays, ask your previous office to send them to us.
How long will my first visit take?
A first visit takes longer than a routine checkup because it includes X-rays and a full exam. [Confirm with office: typical length of a new patient visit].
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call (941) 877-5262 or send a request through our website. A team member will call you to confirm your day and time.
What are your office hours?
We are open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Friday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. We are closed Saturday and Sunday.
Do you see children?
Yes, we offer children's dentistry. [Confirm with office: youngest age seen].
Treatments
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are a series of removable trays that put gentle, steady pressure on your teeth to move them over time. You switch to a new set on a schedule your dentist plans for you. We offer Invisalign, SureSmile and Candid.
Do I qualify for clear aligners?
Many teens and adults are candidates, but it depends on your teeth and bite. Your dentist will evaluate your smile at a consultation and let you know whether aligners are a good fit.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a tooth after it has been shaped. It can strengthen a tooth weakened by decay or one that has had a root canal, and it is made to match your other teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth. It is held in place by crowns on the natural teeth next to the gap, and it usually takes more than one appointment.
Am I a candidate for a smile makeover?
Many people are. A smile makeover is a plan of cosmetic and restorative treatments chosen for your goals, so the first step is a free consultation to see what may suit you.
Is it better to save a tooth or have it removed?
Our dentists try to save a natural tooth whenever that is a sound option. Removing a tooth can lead to bone loss and shifting teeth, so an extraction is usually considered only when the tooth cannot be restored.
Emergencies
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out or broken tooth, swelling in the gums or face, and bleeding that will not stop all need prompt attention. If you are not sure, call us and describe what is happening.
Can I be seen the same day?
[Confirm with office: same-day emergency policy]. Call (941) 877-5262 as early in the day as you can so our team can advise you.
Should I use the online form for an urgent problem?
No. Online requests are not monitored for urgent needs. Please call the office directly so we can help you sooner.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root, and keep it moist in milk or inside your cheek. Call a dentist right away, because prompt care may improve the chance of saving the tooth.
What if my emergency happens when the office is closed?
[Confirm with office: after-hours emergency instructions]. If you have swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, heavy bleeding or a serious injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
My crown or filling came out. What now?
Keep the crown if you have it and avoid chewing on that side. Call us during office hours so we can arrange a visit to protect the tooth.
