All About Smiles

Happy Healthy Smiles - St. Augustine, Florida

Ask The Doctor

Office Policy

  1. Do you really work by appointment?
    Yes. We ask our patients to be on time for their appointments so we can try to keep our schedule on time for everyone. Occasionally, unexpected treatment problems cause us to run behind. Also, sometimes a patient with an emergency may have to be worked into the schedule.If we are running more than 20 minutes behind schedule, we will inform you as soon as possible so you can plan your time.
  2. What is your working schedule?
    We work Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Our first appointment is at 8:15 am and the last at 3:00 pm. On Mondays we do schedule some late appointments.
  3. What happens if I do not attend my appointment?
    We call our patients two days before their appointment to confirm their attendance. We ask that patients call at least 24 hours in advance to notify us when they cannot attend their appointments so that we can give that time to another patient. When a patient misses an appointment, we miss an opportunity to serve another person. When this happens we charge the patient a $25 charge for missing an appointment

Procedures

  1. How do you handle sterilization of the dental instruments?
    After each patient use,our instruments are washed and wrapped. Then they are sterilized in a steam sterilizer. The wrapping has a temperature indicator to show that they have been sterilized. The sterilizer is tested regularly to ensure that it is sterilizing properly.
  2. How many appointments do I need for a crown?
    Normally you need a 1st appointment to place a core buildup along with crown prepping and making an impression.Then your impression goes to the lab, where it takes the technician 2-3 weeks to make the crown.You then come back for a 2nd appointment where the actual crown is placed. Sometimes adjustments need to be made by the lab causing an additional appointment.
  3. What is the difference between a porcelain crown and a metal fused to porcelain crown?
    A porcelain crown is made entirely out of porcelain. The light shines through like it does with natural teeth. The metal/porcelain crowns do not allow light transmission through them and so may not be as natural looking, especially on front teeth. Current types of all porcelain crowns are very strong similar to metal fused to porcelain crowns.
  4. How do I know if I am a good candidate for bleaching?
    People with certain dental conditions may not be good candidates for bleaching. Gum recession may have exposed root surfaces that are sensitive and could be irritated by whitening products. In addition, cracks and cavities could cause extreme sensitivity with bleaching. Its also best for a dentist to make sure your tooth stain can be removed with bleaching techniques.You can make an appointment for a full exam or just a bleaching evaluation.