We get lots (and lots) of questions from parents and kids, that’s A-Okay with us, because we’ve got lots of answers. We’ve collected some of the most frequently asked questions here for you before you head to your next visit.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
Early dental visits are all about prevention. That’s why it’s so important to find your child’s dental home and begin visits after their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday. This is the best way for us to protect your child’s smile!
Are baby teeth really that important?
Absolutely! Baby teeth are extremely important to your child’s health and development. The baby teeth are a major part of chewing, speaking and of course smiling! The baby teeth hold space in the jaw for permanent teeth.
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
Call our office immediately to schedule an appointment.
Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use may cause problems with proper growth of the mouth, alignment of teeth, and can possibly cause changes to the roof of the mouth.
How can I prevent tooth decay caused by nursing?
Ideally, it is best to avoid nursing to sleep or putting anything other than water in your child’s bed-time bottle. The most important thing you can do is learn the proper way to care for your infant’s teeth and schedule six-month check-ups with our office.
What information can I access with my Patient Login?
You can view your account billing, treatment and appointments quickly and securely online.
* For parents with multiple children at our practice, each child’s account is shown separately and will require separate login and password. If you would like to view all accounts/children at once, please contact our office and we will link all accounts to your Social Security number.
Of course, we want you to accompany your child back on their first visit! It is so important for you to meet the doctors, the staff, tour the office, and feel just as comfortable as we want your little one to feel! We design visits based on age, comfort, and safety of your child.
After you’ve scheduled your first visit with us after being referred by another office, we will contact the office to obtain records and x-rays. Often, our doctors can use the x-rays sent over although sometimes we do need to take specific x-rays by age or for treatment. We always strive to take care of treatment immediately; however, due to prior scheduled appointments, we do not guarantee treatment the same day.
I have insurance, what does it cover?
Prior to your first visit, we will call your insurance and use the information they provide for us to estimate what they will pay. Always keep in mind, your out-of-pocket expense is due on the day of service and it is always an ESTIMATE as your benefits are a contract solely between you and your insurance provider.
We accept most insurances! We are contracted with several insurances and will submit to most! Even if you do not see Smile Zone on a list of providers given by your insurance, please call our office as many insurances allow the same benefits regardless.
Does Smile Zone accept State Insurance/ Medicaid?
Smile Zone does not take Medicaid.
We offer financing through care credit, which offers several monthly payment options with 6-12 months zero interest. Apply online at carecredit.com
Can someone else bring my child to their appointment?
Yes, someone else can bring your child to their appointment. We do require a letter signed by the legal guardian stating it is okay to discuss treatment and schedule appointments. With our online New Patient Forms, parents can have all information sent to us prior to the appointment.
If you have not submitted online New Patient Forms prior to your appointment, please arrive 10 minutes early to complete these on the iPad in the office.
Life happens! We are here to help you schedule your visit to best fit your needs. If you need to cancel or re-schedule, please call the office as soon as possible so we can offer this desired appointment time to other families.
What if I miss my appointment?
We’ve all done it! In consideration of patients waiting to be scheduled, please contact the office 24 hours before the appointment to re-schedule. If you do miss an appointment, we will contact you as a friendly reminder.
When can I start using my membership?
Your membership is effective immediately!
Simply call our office and setup an appointment for yourself or your family members.
How can I use my Member Exclusive discount for restorative, elective or cosmetic treatment?
Simply schedule an appointment with our office and be sure to tell us you’re a member. When you arrive, we’ll make sure your membership is “current” and you will be eligible for instant savings off our regular fees.
It will be your responsibility to reschedule. Please see our office policy regarding no-shows and last minute cancellations.
Can I add members to my account?
Absolutely! Your entire family can join.
Your membership is solely with our office and as such is non-transferrable. If you move to another area, you may cancel your membership at any time.
No. Refunds will not be provided for dues paid under any circumstances, including failure to schedule and maintain appointments.
