Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to hands-on clinical services, Dr. Hadad and our team also like to provide our patients with dental education so they can have all the information they need about their treatment options and know how to take great care of their teeth between appointments. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most popular questions we receive every day, but if you have one we didn’t answer here, feel free to give us a call anytime!
Q) How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
A) We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
Q) How do you look out for the safety of your patients?
A) Very well, actually! In addition to following guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), we use disposable products as often as possible. Between each patient visit, we thoroughly clean treatment rooms and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Because we value safety, we have invested in a digital radiograph, which emits about 80% less radiation that a traditional X-ray machine. We also use intraoral cameras and photography for close-up images, which promotes accurate diagnoses. If you have questions about our safety and sterilization methods, call us. We'll answer your questions with enthusiasm because we love dentistry and our patients.
Q) What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
A) 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!
Q) What is a cosmetic dentist?
A) Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, so any general dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To choose a good cosmetic dentist, review the doctor’s before-and-after photos of actual cases, ask about his or her postgraduate education in cosmetic dentistry, and make sure that you feel confident and comfortable in the office.
Q) Will you care for my entire family?
A) Absolutely. We enjoy creating gorgeous, healthy smiles for patients of any age. If we find that your child – or you, for that matter – would benefit from seeing a specialist, we'll refer to a trusted colleague. Some children deal with dental appointments better at a pedodontist's office, that's what a children's dentist is called. We also refer patients who have extensive dental problems, like advanced periodontitis or problematic root canals, to a specialist for optimal care. As a general dentist office, our preventive, restorative, prosthetic, and cosmetic dental services include treatments suitable for patients of all ages.
Q) Insurance is very confusing. Can your office help me file?
A) Yes. We understand your confusion and have someone on staff to help you. Simply bring your card or claim into our office, or call to speak with one of our office staff.