frequently asked questions

• When should my child start seeing a dentist?

  Children should be seen by a dentist at age 2-2 1/2.
  
  
  

• Are dental x-rays safe?

  You are exposed to more radiation from natural sources in a year than you are from traditional dental films.  New Prague Dental Center uses digital films.  Our digital imagery equipment exposes you to 80% less radiation than when traditional films are taken, so we feel dental images are safe.
  
  
  

• Is your equipment sterile?

  Yes, you can feel comfortable and safe at New Prague Dental Center.  We follow all the guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control (cdc.gov) and the American Dental Association (ada.org).
  
  
  

• I’m afraid of dentists, can you help me? 

  People can carry a strong fear of the dentist for a lifetime after having one bad experience.  The doctors and staff at New Prague Dental Center strive to make every appointment as comfortable as we possibly can for you.  We take the time to explain procedures to our patients to help take away the fear of the unknown.  Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available for our patient’s use.  It helps some patients relax during their dental procedures.  Our goal is to have our patients leave our office with a happy and satisfied smile.
  
  
  

• Why do you need to know my medical information? 

  Your dentist and staff at New Prague Dental Center need to know your medical history, medical status and any medications you are on so we don’t deliver any treatment or prescribe any medications for you that may harm you.  As examples, patients may be allergic to certain drugs we use or they may have a medical condition that requires using an antibiotic prior to dental treatment.
  
  
  

• Why do I need to be pre-medicated?

  Certain health conditions require patients to take an antibiotic before dental appointments.  Why?  During dental treatment, bleeding sometimes occurs.  As a result, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream then enter the vital organs and all tissues of the body. These bacteria may cause bacterial endocarditis, a serious inflammation of the heart valves or tissues. Bacteria may also cause an inflammation and/or infection in the tissues surrounding artificial joints. 

  Patients take pre-medication for conditions which include:

              - artificial heart valves
              - a history of infective endocarditis
              - certain serious congenital heart conditions
              - total joint replacements

  If you have any questions whether you should premedicate, contact your cardiologist, doctor or dentist.





• Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?

  Inflamed, red and puffy tissues that bleed can be an isolated infection or an early sign of gum disease called periodontal disease.  If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, keep brushing and flossing and call our office to have your teeth and gums evaluated.
  
  
  

• Are silver fillings safe?

  Although many patients prefer tooth-colored fillings, dental amalgams (silver fillings) have been reviewed extensively and found to be very safe and long lasting restorations.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued its final regulation on dental amalgam in July of 2009, reaffirming the agency’s position that the material is a safe and effective restoration option for patients. 

• Do I really need this treatment?

  The doctors and staff at New Prague Dental Center will discuss when and why treatment is necessary and, also, will discuss the benefits and risks of various treatment options so that you are able to make informed decisions.  We will work with you to arrange your appointments.
  
  
  

• Can this treatment wait?

  Disease of the teeth, gums and related structures of the mouth should be treated as soon as possible.  Your dentist at New Prague Dental Center will help you prioritize your treatment needs taking into consideration your comfort, health and financial concerns.
  
  
  

• How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

  Your dentist and hygienist at New Prague Dental Center will recommend how often they feel you need your teeth cleaned and evaluated for your dental and over-all health.  Patients have different oral health needs so it could be every three, four or six months.
  
  
  

• If I use the laughing gas, nitrous oxide, will I fall asleep?  Can I drive myself home?

  The nitrous oxide will not put you to sleep, however, it will relax you and you may fall asleep.  You can drive yourself home because at the end of your appointment we have you breathe oxygen for 5-10 minutes to completely clear your head and body from the nitrous oxide.
  
  

• How long will this appointment take?

  Appointment times vary depending on the type of treatment necessary.  We take into consideration a patient’s tolerance and time constraints.
  
  

  Child hygiene appointment		30-40 minutes
  Adult hygiene appointment		50-70 minutes
  Filling appointments		40-90 minutes
  Crown preparations		70-90 minutes

  
  
  
  

• Do you take my insurance?

  We can submit to any insurance company but to make sure you are getting your total benefit you should call the number on the back of your insurance card.  Please call our office and we will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.
  
  
  

• Can I make payments?

  New Prague Dental Center offers individualized payment options and utilizes care credit (carecredit.com) for extensive treatment plans.  Please call our office to discuss your payment concerns.
  
  
  

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