Frequently Asked Questions
Will you accept my Insurance Provider?
We welcome most dental insurance, however coverage is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage,
while others cover 50% or greater. Generally speaking, dental insurance covers some
restorative and preventative
procedures. Cosmetic treatment is usually not covered.
Insurance plans can be confusing. Melinda and Debbie will be happy to assist you
with any questions you may have. We will also call your insurance provider to verify eligibility and get an
estimate of your plans benefits. Although we participate in many PPO's, we'll file "out of network" claims as well.
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What methods of payment are accepted by your office?
For your convenience we accept payment by cash, personal check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or
through CareCredit.
CareCredit is the nations leading patient payment program. It enables you to finance 100% of
your dental care with NO MONEY DOWN, NO INTEREST, NO UPFRONT COSTS, NO ANNUAL FEES, and NO PAYMENT PENALTIES!
CareCredit can be used by the entire family for ongoing treatment without having to reapply. CareCredit offers
a comprehensive range of plan options, for treatment or procedure fees, from $1.00 to over $25,000.00, and it
only takes a few minutes to apply!
With our convenient payment options, including CareCredit, you can have the smile of your dreams today!
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Do you offer teeth whitening?
To get those dazzling white teeth you've always dreamed of, Dr. Barther
offers a chairside, in-office teeth whitening system as well as a convenient take home system.
For your in-office, BriteSmile™ teeth whitening,
Dr. Barther will apply a concentrated whitening gel to your
teeth and activate it with a special light. In approximately one hour, you'll enjoy a smile up to six shades
brighter.
However, if you prefer to whiten your teeth gradually in the convenience of your home, Dr. Barther
can provide you with a professional strength, Venus®
whitening kit. Dr. Barther will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth and make custom whitening
trays. You'll wear the trays for approximately one hour per day for about two weeks. By the end of the
two week whitening session, you will enjoy the sparkling smile you've always wanted!
Please visit our Library for more information on this topic.
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Do you provide treatment for children? At what age should a child first see a dentist?
We would be honored to be entrusted with the care of your childs teeth. Dr. Barther
recommends a first appointment when the child is between 12 and 18 months old. This allows us to follow your
childs development as well as identify any problems early on. If the childs first appointment is at one year,
the chances are very good that this will be a problem free visit and a positive experience. This first visit
will set the tone for happy dental checkups for years to come.
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How are digital X-Rays different than traditional X-Rays?
When compared to traditional radiography, digital X-Rays (such as the Dexis
system that we offer), emit at least 80% less radiation. Detailed images are immediately available
to view on a chairside computer monitor. Images can be enlarged and enhanced to make diagnosis, and ultimately
treatment, easier and more predictable. As an added benefit, digital X-Rays require NO hazardous
developing chemicals.
Get more information about our Digital X-Ray Service.
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What is a dental implant?
Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or a whole set of teeth. Implants are
specially designed pieces of titanium that are surgically implanted in the jawbone. In time, bone
forms around them and they are firmly held in the jaw, much like the roots of natural teeth, except
they do not have the periodontal ligament to cushion the impact of chewing. The portion that protrudes
through your gums can be crowned, or used as an abutment or anchor for attaching bridges, dentures and
partials. If you are interested in the techniques that are used, or would like any other detailed
information, please contact us at your earliest convenience.
Please vistit our Library for more information on this topic.
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What is a root canal?
Advanced decay and trauma to the tooth's nerves are the most common cause of that infamous procedure known
as a root canal. When the decay reaches the tooth's dentin, the dentin is exposed to germs and their
toxins. If caught soon enough, via dental exam or X-ray, the decay can be removed and the tooth filled
without further damage. If the decay is allowed to proceed, it will eventually reach the pulp and destroy
it. Then the infection will proceed into the root canal. Because the root canal is so narrow, any infection
causing inflammation and swelling will give you intense pain. However, pain will not always be present,
it may not show up until the bone around the root tip has also become infected and sometimes not even then.
Whether or not there is pain, once the pulp has been infected and is dying, either a root canal must be done
or the tooth will have to be removed. In a root canal procedure, in order to remove the infection, the
content of the pulp and root canal are completely removed. If this isn't done, the germs, and the resulting
infection, can travel down the root canal and infect the bone that surrounds the root. This not only destroys
the bone but can cause an abscess, accompanied by intense pain and swelling in the area around the root. It
can be a most painful dental experience.
After the infection is removed, the canal or canals are filled with a special material.
Next, the tooth must be restored. The tooth may only need a little filling or it may need a full crown if the
destruction has been severe.
After a root canal has been done and the tooth's pulp and root canal have been cleaned out, the tooth is more
susceptible to fracturing because the tooth dries out when the nerves and blood vessels no longer provide
it with fluids. Thus, most root canal teeth need to be crowned to prevent them from fracturing.
Please vistit our Library for more information on this topic.
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