Frequently Asked Questions
How does the doctor keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials?
Dentistry is constantly evolving, so we do a number of things to stay up to date on all of the current research. We are active members of a variety of organizations at local, national, and international levels in order to provide a continuum of lifelong learning and education in oral healthcare. These organizations include the Greater Loudoun Study Club affiliated with the Seattle Study Club, the American Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry. We frequently attend continuing education courses that focus on research in all aspects of cosmetic, implant, restorative, and preventive dentistry. We are committed to providing our patients with the best care possible.
How do I know when it’s time to come in for a checkup?
We know your schedule is busy, so we’ll remind you when it’s time to come in to see us. We usually schedule your next checkup in advance, and then we’ll give you a courtesy reminder with a phone call, if requested, a few days in advance of your appointment. We also use email and a text service as a courtesy to our patients.
At what age should my children first see a dentist?
We encourage routine check-ups for all members of the family. Unless a parent notes a particular problem, we encourage the first dental visit and cleaning at three to four years of age. Your pediatrician may advise a sooner visit if developmental problems are noted.
Do we need Fluoride supplements for our children?
People that have public water in our area have fluoride added to their water. If you have well-water you may need supplements of fluoride. We maintain a chart of the fluoride levels found in Loudoun County and can show you natural fluoride levels in your area. These levels are different throughout the county. It is best to have the fluoride levels checked in your water as every well is different.
Do you accept referrals?
Yes! We always welcome referrals from other doctors, patients and friends; they are our biggest compliment.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We are participating providers with Delta Dental, Cigna, and Anthem insurance. As a courtesy to you, our staff will file your insurance claims. We also will file any other indemnity insurance plan for you as a courtesy. We have tons of patients that choose to see us “out of network.” Often times, out of network benefits are just as good or better than in network benefits. Please be sure that your particular plan allows you to see an "out of network" dentist. We will wait up to 90 days to hear from your insurance company at which time it will be your responsibility to clear your account in full.
Please keep in mind that some dental procedures may not be covered by your dental insurance plan. We make our best effort to provide patients with the best care available. Payment for services not covered by your insurance plan is due at the time of service. We strongly feel that insurance should not dictate the timing or quality of your dental care. We are pleased to offer CareCredit, a leader in patient financing, to help accommodate any financial needs for our patients.
Will I be charged if I need to cancel an appointment?
We completely understand and respect the importance of your time. When you make an appointment we reserve that time especially for you. If you have to cancel, we do ask that you give us at least 24-hour notice so that we can accommodate another patient who is waiting to be seen. If you do not give us sufficient notice, we will charge you $75.00 for the appointment. Healthcare costs are steadily rising and last minute cancellations and not showing up for appointments has a significant impact on healthcare fees.
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
If you have an emergency, please call our office number right away. Our phone message will direct you for the number to call for immediate assistance. We provide 24 hour emergency care for patients of record.
I have a temporary crown in my mouth; what happens if it comes off or breaks?
Sometimes a temporary can come loose before your final crown is fabricated. Please call the office if this happens at any time and we will re-cement, or make a new temporary as soon as possible.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
We offer a variety of professional tooth whitening systems to our patients. Different patients have dark or discolored teeth for a variety of reasons. We have several whitening systems to meet the demands of each individual. We offer professional home whitening, and deep bleaching which combines both at home and in office treatment for the brightest smile possible.
What different payment options do you provide?
We strongly feel that both the patient and the practice benefit from a good understanding of financial arrangements and treatment plans prior to treatment. We want you to be able to get the dental treatment that you want and need, so we offer a variety of arrangements for payment. You may pay with cash or by check and we accept Visa and MasterCard. We also work with CareCredit, a leader in patient financing, allowing patients to initiate treatment immediately upon approval.
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
As your dental professionals, we care about both your health and safety. Our practice follows a variety of precautions to ensure your well-being while you are in our office. We have a specific area in our office designed to centralize sterilization and monitor aseptic instrument management. We remain current with OSHA standards for safety compliance requirements. Your safety is our top priority.
What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?
In our practice, we go a step farther than what you'd expect. How? We strive to be caring, careful, comprehensive, and competent in all that we do. Caring, in that we genuinely get to know you as a person; establishing an individualized long-term plan for a lifetime of good oral health. We put your concerns at the top of our list!
Further, we're comprehensive: considering every aspect of your oral health prior to making any treatment recommendations. Everyone on our team strives for absolute competency in all that we do for you. Over the years, we've added to our areas of expertise with special courses so that we can offer you the very best of the latest in whatever area of dentistry you need.
From the time you first call our office, you'll find yourself being treated with a superior level of kindness, respect, and concern. We look forward to getting to know you!