General

Services

Emergency

General

Who do I contact for billing questions?

Call (512) 244-3991 and ask for our Billing Supervisor or use our web contact form.

I paid everything at my last office visit. Why do I have a balance now?

Our billing specialists at Patriot Dental can only estimate the portion of services for which you are responsible. There are many factors that determine the payment of a claim, and only your insurance company is fully aware of your individual situation. Were you eligible at the time of treatment? Have you reached your maximum? Have you met your deductible?

Indemnity plans do not have contracted fees with the dental office, making it difficult to estimate your exact payment. Only after the claim is paid can the dental office calculate your exact payment.

When the insurance carrier pays or denies a claim, an explanation of benefits is mailed to both the patient and dental office. After the insurance payment is applied, you will receive an account statement in the mail indicating if additional money is due.

What types of insurance do you accept?

We accepts most dental insurance plans, PPO plans, indemnity plans, AETNA DMO, and discount dental plans. If you have specific questions about whether we accept your dental insurance, please contact our office.

The kind of insurance plan, discount dental plan, or other type of dental plan will determine what treatments are included or excluded. If your plan is offered through your employer or some other sponsor, you should be able learn the specific details through them.

Some plans are Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) which provide a financial incentive for using dentists that are in their network. Other plans are Dental Maintenance Organizations (DMOs) where a patient may use only the dentists participating in their program. If your plan is a PPO or DMO, your employer or plan sponsor should provide you with a list of the dentists who participate in your program.

Not all dental treatments are covered by insurance or discount dental plans and sometimes these plans pay only a part of the total cost of treatment. It is also common for plans to have an annual dollar limit on paid benefits. You should be prepared for some out-of-pocket expenses even if you have dental insurance.

Your dentist may recommend a treatment that is excluded under your dental insurance plan, often because many plans allow only for the least expensive way to treat a dental problem. You and your dentist should discuss your treatment plan and decide the best treatment for you regardless of what your dental plan allows. Limiting your dental treatment to the benefits of your dental plan can place your dental and overall health at risk.

Why do I need x-rays? Isn’t the radiation from x-rays dangerous?

X-rays produce an image of the hard tissues in your mouth (or teeth). Teeth appear almost white on the film, while tooth decay, infections and gum disease show up as dark spots that may not be detected by a visual examination. Your dentist uses these x-ray images to determine the health of your teeth and gums. As a result, your dentist is able to treat dental problems in their earliest stages, thereby saving you money and more difficult procedures.

If you are a new patient, our office will take x-rays to determine the current status of your mouth and compare these x-rays to subsequent x-rays in future visits to see what changes may have occurred between dental visits. Your oral health and age helps your dentist determine how often x-rays are taken.

The radiation exposure you will have from dental x-rays is minimal. Most people do not realize that they are exposed to radiation every day from various sources, including small home appliances and minerals in the soil. Radiation from dental x-rays is very low; however, we take every precaution to minimize radiation exposure. Be sure to tell the doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

We currently use digital imaging system as well as traditional x-rays in our offices. The advanced imaging technology uses a fraction of the radiation of traditional x-rays. The advanced technology offers a number of benefits to the patients and dentists as well including instant acquisition of the images. With no developing needed, patients no longer have to wait. Dentists can enlarge the images and clearly show the patient any areas of concern and discuss treatment options.

Why did my doctor tell me I need antibiotics before my dental appointment?

Patients with heart conditions or joint replacements need to take antibiotics before any dental treatments to reduce the risk of inflammation or infection. Some bleeding in the mouth may occur during your dental treatment which allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream. That can put heart patients at risk for bacterial endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart valves or tissues. Joint replacement patients can be at risk of the bacteria settling in the artificial joint and causing an infection.

Other conditions such as HIV infections, cancer, Type I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and hemophilia, may need antibiotics prior to dental treatments as well. Make sure you talk to the dentist about your specific health conditions.

What is the difference between a DDS and a DMD?

You may notice that your dentist has a DDS or DMD after his or her name. The DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. The education and training is the same for both degrees. The majority of dental schools award the DDS degree; however, some award a DMD degree.

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I dread visits to the dentist. Is there anything that can make my dental visits more comfortable?

There have been a number of advances in equipment and medications with the patient’s comfort in mind. At Patriot Dental we want to make your visit as comfortable and pleasant as possible. If you experience any anxiety or pain while in our office, please let your dentist or hygienist know immediately.

There are a number of different treatments available to alleviate stress. Talk with the dentist about your anxieties and discuss what can be done to make your dental appointments more comfortable.

Why do I need to have my wisdom teeth extracted?

The doctor may recommend extraction of a wisdom tooth for several reasons. The most common reason is that the wisdom tooth is impacted, meaning that it is unable to grow correctly. If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it may grow in sideways or not at all. If a wisdom tooth only partially comes in, bacteria may form around the tooth and cause an infection.

Sometimes when a wisdom tooth erupts, the tooth pushes on the adjacent teeth and needs to be extracted before it causes a misalignment of your teeth. And if your wisdom tooth has a cyst, it will be extracted to ensure that it doesn’t destroy the surrounding bone or tooth roots.

I was told that I need a root canal. What is it and why do I need one?

A root canal is a procedure used to treat a tooth’s soft core that is damaged or diseased. This soft core is called the dental pulp and contains the nerves, blood vessels and other connective tissue that extends from the crown of the tooth to the root and down into the jaw bone.

If tooth decay or a crack in a tooth causes an abscess or infection in the dental pulp, it must be treated to prevent further infection and damage to your jaw bone. The treatment is called a root canal and is performed by a general dentist or an endodontist (a root canal specialist). The procedure includes removing the diseased or damaged dental pulp, cleaning out the pulp chamber and the root canal(s) of the tooth, and then sealing them. Sometimes a crown is called for following a root canal procedure. If your dentist advises you to have a crown follow your root canal procedure, he or she may use a temporary filling to seal the tooth until a crown can be permanently placed. This procedure may take up to three appointments to complete.

The hygienist says smoking has an adverse affect on my oral health. Is this true?

Smokers have a much higher risk of developing oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease than non-smokers. Smoking can delay the healing of any sores or open wounds in the mouth as well. Tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco products, irritate your gums causing gum tissue to pull away or recede from your teeth. A receding gum line exposes the roots of your teeth to tooth decay and may also leave pockets between your gums and teeth.

Not only can a receding gum line cause discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, but it can also lead to periodontal disease, an infection that when left untreated, can irreversibly damage your gums and the bones that support your teeth. Periodontal disease can also result in tooth loss. In fact, it is the leading cause of tooth loss.

Tobacco use is another risk factor for oral cancer, a life-threatening disease. You may not even be aware that you have oral cancer in its early stages. That is why our office recommends all smokers have an annual screening, a simple, non-invasive oral cancer screening test. It just might save your life.

What’s the difference between gingivitis and periodontal disease?

According to the American Dental Association, 75 percent of Americans over the age of 35 have some form of periodontal disease. There are five stages of periodontal disease. The first stage is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is the only stage of periodontal disease that can be reversed with professional treatment and strict adherence to a home care regimen. Stages two through five are called mild periodontal disease, moderate periodontal disease, advanced periodontal disease and refractory periodontal disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for these later stages.

With regular professional treatment and strict adherence to a home regimen, the disease can be managed and controlled to slow or prevent its progression.

It pays to catch and treat periodontal disease as soon as possible. If your disease is left untreated and progresses, it will be costly and time consuming to manage. Please see your dentist or hygienist as soon as possible if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• red, swollen gums
  
• bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
  
• teeth that feel loose
  
• receding gums
  
• pus between your teeth and gums
  
• chronic bad breath

What causes tooth decay?

Plaque, the sticky substance on our teeth, contains bacteria that feed on the carbohydrates in our diet and produces an acid that causes tooth decay. Decay can also cause gums to recede and expose the roots of the teeth.

As we age, xerostomia (also known as dry mouth) can contribute to decay. This can be a result of certain medications which reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth. We need saliva to rinse away foods, neutralize the acids produced by plaque and generally lubricate the mouth. Ask your Patriot dental staff about ways to help treat xerostomia.

Why are brushing and flossing so important?

It is important to brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least twice a day to prevent periodontal disease, the leading cause of tooth loss. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can travel through your bloodstream and have an adverse impact on your overall health. The Surgeon General has linked periodontal disease to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis and pre-term and low birth weight babies.

By spending a few minutes on good oral hygiene each day, you’ll be able to maintain good oral health throughout your life. Be sure to make regular visits to your dentist as well.

I just found out I’m pregnant. Do I need to change my oral health regimen?

No. However, we do not recommend that pregnant women use whitening products or antibiotics used in the treatment of periodontal disease. The safety and efficacy of these products has not been established in pregnant women. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the pregnancy. This includes keeping regular dentist and hygienist appointments and brushing and flossing regularly. For women who are experiencing uncomplicated pregnancies and who have healthy gums and teeth, the second trimester is generally the best time to schedule a regular office visit.

Pregnant women who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease are urged to keep their regular dental appointments in addition to following the oral health care regimen recommended by their dentist. Studies indicate that pregnant women who have severe periodontal disease may be at increased risk for pre-term delivery or a low birth-weight baby.

During pregnancy, a woman’s hormones go through many changes, leaving the woman more susceptible to gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease. The good news is that gingivitis is the only form of periodontal disease that can be reversed and cured with regular professional care and a good home care regimen. Be sure to mention to your dentist or hygienist if your gums become swollen or red, bleed or have an odor.

Why is it recommended to brush after eating?

Your mouth is full of bacteria in the form of a sticky film called plaque. Whenever there is food in your mouth or the remains of food after eating, the bacteria uses the sugars and starches in the food to produce an acid that eats away your enamel – the hard, outer surface of your teeth. The longer food remains in your mouth, the greater your chances are for tooth decay. Common things like carbonated beverages provide a breeding ground for tooth decay. Each time you eat food or drink beverages that contain sugars or starches, the acid attacks your teeth for 20 minutes or more. Brushing your teeth then flowing with flossing is the best way to remove the acid and decay-causing plaque from your teeth.

I have diabetes. Why does my dentist care?

If you have diabetes, you are at a higher risk for tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, xerostomia (dry mouth), infection, delayed healing and other oral health problems. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place and is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Since diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, diabetic patients have more frequent and more severe periodontal disease. Uncontrolled periodontal disease can adversely impact your overall health. Periodontal disease has been linked by the Surgeon General to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis and pre-term and low birth-weight babies.

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause high glucose levels in the saliva and may promote the growth of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugar and starches in your food and release an acid that causes tooth decay.

What’s the difference between a bridge, a partial denture and an implant?

All three are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

1. A bridge is one or more replacement teeth anchored by one or more permanent teeth on each side. The replacement teeth literally bridge the gap of the missing tooth or teeth.
   
   When teeth are lost and not replaced, the remaining teeth may shift to fill the empty space leaving patients susceptible to periodontal disease, speech impediments, jaw problems, tooth decay and collapsed bites. A bridge can help prevent these problems by maintaining the shape of your jaw line, alleviating the stress in your bite, and preventing the teeth from drifting out of position.
   
   
2. A partial denture is removable and consists of artificial teeth that are attached to a gum-colored plastic base which attaches to your natural teeth with metal clasps. Sometimes a crown will be placed on one of your natural teeth to hold the partial denture in place.
   
   
3. A dental implant is a permanent anchor or screw that is surgically placed in the bone and covered with a crown. An implant can be used to secure a crown, a series of bridges, removable dentures or fixed dentures. An implant functions and often looks just like a normal tooth. Dental implants offer stability and a secure fit, but require surgery and may take about 4-12 months to complete. Candidates must have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the placement of the anchor which holds the tooth in place.

What is the best way to whiten my teeth and brighten my smile?

Whitening is an easy way to dramatically enhance your smile because over time, your teeth naturally stain and darken your teeth. Many things we do on a regular basis can contribute to stained teeth, including smoking and drinking coffee, tea, cola or red wine. If you have stained, discolored or dull-looking teeth, whitening is a quick and affordable way to get dramatic results by making your smile bright and white.

There are many factors involved in determining the best whitening system for your teeth, including the existing color of your teeth, the type of staining that you have, and the color of any fillings, crowns, veneers or bonding that you currently have. If you are getting ready to have restorative dental work done, it always best to whiten your teeth first so that you can select a shade that will match your newly whitened teeth. The Dentist or hygienist will help you decide the best method to brighten your smile.

Zoom® Whitening Kit is a quick way to make a great impression and get your teeth 6-8 shades whiter in just 3 days. Apply the gel in the whitening trays provided by your Patriot dental dentist. Wear the tray for 3 consecutive days for 4-6 hours. You’ll notice fast, long lasting results with less fade back and reduced sensitivity.

Nite White Excel will get your teeth 6-8 shades whiter in about 10-14 days. Nite White ACP is the first whitener to combine patented Amorphous Calcium Phosphate technology with the proven effectiveness of Potassium Nitrate. ACP also reduces sensitivity and fade back and aids in the prevention of cavities.

What are veneers?

Veneers are commonly used to correct the appearance of stained, crooked, or unsightly teeth. A veneer is thin shell of tooth-colored material that is placed over your natural tooth, covering the front or visible side of the tooth. The veneer is specially made to fit your tooth by a dental laboratory and is permanently placed over your natural tooth. A small part of your own tooth is removed to make the veneer fit correctly. Veneers are a great choice for patients who want the most natural-looking teeth.

What is an amalgam filling? What is a composite filling?

Amalgam is a dental restorative material that most people think of as their silver or metal fillings. Amalgam has been used by dentists for over 100 years. A composite filling, also called a white filling, is a tooth-colored resin used to fill in cavities and repair defects in teeth. Because composite resins look just like natural teeth, many patients prefer this type of filling even though they cost a little more than amalgam fillings.

Why does my doctor want to replace my filling?

Over time, constant chewing or grinding can cause your fillings to wear down. There may also be a chip or a crack in the filling, which allows food and decay-causing bacteria to get under it. Replacing the filling will seal the tooth again and help prevent further decay.

How do I care for my dentures?

While dentures are durable, they need to be handled delicately and cared for on a daily basis to maximize their longevity. Dropping dentures even a few inches can break a tooth or the denture base. Even with special care, denture teeth can lose their natural appearance and chewing ability due to brushing and age. The way you care for your dentures can also alter their fit. Dentures can warp if placed in hot water. If they become dried out, they may change shape. When you remove your dentures at night, place them in a container of denture-cleaning solution or water. It’s best to use a brush designed for dentures and a denture cleaner rather than toothpaste, because some toothpastes may be too abrasive for dentures.

What can be done to make my dental visits more comfortable?

There have been a number of advances in equipment and medications with the patient’s comfort in mind. At Patriot Dental, we want to make your visit as comfortable and pleasant as possible. If you experience any anxiety or pain while in our office, please let your doctor or hygienist know immediately.

EMERGENCY back to top ^

Emergency Information:

The following information should help with caring for some common dental emergencies.

What to do if you have a toothache?

Rinse the mouth out with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth.

Never put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth because it may burn the gum tissue. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.

What to do if you have a broken tooth?

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Use cold compresses on the area to keep any swelling down. Call your dentist immediately.

What to do for a bitten lip or tongue?

Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce any swelling. If the bleeding doesn't stop, go to a hospital emergency room immediately.

What to do if objects get caught between the teeth?

Try to gently remove the object with dental floss; avoid cutting the gums. Never use a sharp instrument to remove any object that is stuck between your teeth. If you can't dislodge the object using dental floss, contact your dentist.

What to do if a permanent tooth is knocked out?