Emergency Care If you should have a problem requiring emergency care that arises on the weekend or after regular hours, you can reach the doctor by calling 277-9570 and arrangements will be made for you as soon as possible. No Smoking, Please Since exposure to tobacco smoke is detrimental to your health and that of others, you are asked to refrain from smoking while at this office.

New Patient Procedures We have found that the best way to provide our patients with complete dental health is to begin with a thorough initial examination, where the doctor can get to know you and your individual needs and desires. The initial examination will involve the doctor checking you for cancers, tumors, and cysts, evaluating your jaw joints, teeth, gums, and the tissues of your mouth. Also, any necessary x-rays, diagnostic models, and bite records used to analyze your bite and occlusion will be taken. After the doctor has carefully studied your case, he will have you back in a few days for a consultation to discuss your specific needs and treatment recommendation.

Professional Fees and Payment Every effort will be made to provide you with the highest quality dentistry at the lowest possible fee. Professional dental fees are determined by the following factors: 1) The amount of time involved 2) The extent of treatment required 3) The expertise of the doctor and staff 4) The lab and supply costs Once a treatment plan has been determined, you will be given an estimate of the fees involved and our business staff will be happy to discuss various plans and financial arrangements with you.

Insurance Coverage Dental insurance is unlike most medical insurance plans in that dental insurance plans usually do not cover all expenses and have calendar year maximum benefits ($750 to $1500 in most cases). Some pay fixed allowances for certain procedures; others pay a percentage of the charge. Please bring any insurance information and policy coverage at your initial visit so that our business staff may assist you in determining your benefits and answer any questions concerning your coverage. However, it has become impossible to keep up with all benefits, deductibles, and exclusions on the many plans available today, so we do require the patient to pay for professional services at the time rendered, and then usually in about 2-3 weeks, have their insurance company can reimburse them. We trust you understand our need to keep costs and fees reasonable.

Referrals New Patients are always welcome! We appreciate the confidence our patients show by referring their family and friends. If a professional team approach is needed, we will be glad to arrange for referrals and coordinate treatment with other doctors.

Periodic Cleanings and Examination We believe in the importance of regular preventive dental health care. Research now shows that most gum disease and dental decay can be prevented with proper home care and regular professional treatment. Neglect is the major cause of tooth loss and extensive dental treatment. Most dental diseases and problems do not cause pain or discomfort, and are unnoticed by patients until the late stages. A thorough cleaning and examination of teeth and gums every 3 to 6 months is usually recommended for most patients, especially patients with restorative dentistry or periodontal problems (gum disease).

Cosmetic Dentistry In today's active lifestyle, we realize how important it is to have a happy and healthy smile. An attractive smile makes a positive statement about you. New procedures and techniques are now available such as bonding, bleaching and esthetic porcelain restorations that give a "natural life-like" appearance. Please feel free to ask how cosmetic dentistry could improve your smile.

Dental Implants Dental Implants are an alternative and highly predictable method of replacing missing or lost teeth. Most implants are metal tooth root substitutes to which crown and bridge-type dentistry or denture prosthesis can be firmly attached. Our office is committed to provide our patients with the latest advances in dentistry.

Sedation and Anxiety Control Many patients avoid dental care because of fear or anxiety as a result of previous unpleasent dental experiences. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, and anesthetics that provide our patients with the comfort and relaxation they need are available. The doctor will determine which method is best for each patient and discuss its benefits with them. Please fell free to discuss with our staff any anxiety or fears you may have concerning your dental treatment.

To Protect Your Health...
... because you and your family are valued patients, we want to assure you that we take every precaution to control and prevent the spread of diseases and infections in this office. In carrying out this philosophy, we take the following protective measures: Using the latest proven sterilization / disinfection methods on instruments, handpieces and other materials used in your mouth. Wearing disposable gloves and changing them between each patient. Wearing disposable masks that prevent viruses and bacteria from entering or leaving the nose or mouth. Wearing protective eyewear or face shields that prevent contamination from aerosol splatter. Scrubbing our hands with an approved germicidal soap before and after treating each patient. Meticulously cleaning and disinfecting the chair, counter tops and other surface areas in all treatment rooms. Using disposable products wherever possible to eliminate cross-infection. Carefully handling all disposable materials as recommended by federal government guidelines, and state and local regulatory agencies.