Why do I need regular check-ups? Regular check-ups help to maintain good oral health. It also allows potential problems to be caught early, before they become large and expensive problems. It's recommended that you see your dentist every six months for your exam, cleaning, and x-rays if necessary. What should I expect for my new-patient appointment? Your first new patient appointment will start with a complete medical and dental health history. You will also receive a blood pressure reading, complete x-rays as required, periodontal evaluation to check perio pockets, oral cancer screening, charting of existing restorations, comprehensive examination, and a cleaning if allowed.   The doctor will also discuss any treatment you may need. Before leaving, we will schedule your next cleaning appointment and any other appointments that may be needed for treatment. At what age should my child start seeing the dentist? Typically, we see children in our office starting at age 3 to 4, depending upon the child's willingness to cooperate. The child's first visit is usually scheduled along with a parent's cleaning appointment. The first visit, know as a Happy Appointment, typically includes the child sitting in the chair, teeth counting, and a visit with the dentist so that they can become acquainted. Treatment is never forced, as this may adversely effect future appointments. An exam and cleaning will be completed only if allowed by the child. Can I see the dentist if I am pregnant? Many people think that being pregnant means they cannot receive dental treatment.  However, that's not always true. Although it is recommended that nonessential procedures are postponed until after pregnancy, if an emergency should arise, do not hesitate to contact us. Many precautions can be taken to ensure the safety of both mother and child during dental treatment. If planning your pregnancy, you may want to consider seeing the dentist for your routine exam and cleaning before becoming pregnant. This may help catch and avoid any serious problems during your pregnancy. What causes bad breath? Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by several different factors. Halitosis is a sign that a problem exists. It can be caused by the accumulation of bacteria due to improper cleaning, infected gums, lack of saliva, or a possible illness. You should contact us if you have halitosis. A proper evaluation and treatment can typically take care of the problem. What does my insurance cover? When making your first appointment, we will get the necessary information needed to contact your insurance company for you in advance. Your benefit information will be ready for you upon arrival for your first appointment. If extensive treatment is needed, we recommend getting a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance company first. We'll file all the necessary paperwork for you and then contact you once approval has been received.