FAQs
- Q) How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
- Q) Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
- Q) Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
- Q) How can I improve my smile?
- Q) You're treating my son/daughter with braces, but I want a straighter smile too! I don't want the immature look of braces, is there a solution for me?
- Q) How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
- Q) How can I make my smile brighter?
- Q) What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?
- Q) Do you accept dental insurance?
- Q) How can I pay for my dental work?
Q) How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
A) We recommend in order to maintain good oral health, patients should schedule a cleaning twice each year, and an exam once each year. If you may need more frequent visits, we'll keep you informed of this. Checkups and continuing care are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find early signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages of gum disease. At your cleaning appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
Q) Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
A) Our patient library is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our services pages for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call our Southlake dental office. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
Q) Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
A) Yes! Floss loosens bacteria, food particles, plaque, and tartar trapped between teeth. In addition to irritating gums, causing gum disease, and promoting cavities, these three culprits cause bad breath. If you need help learning how to floss quickly and effectively, our hygienist will gladly teach you some techniques to make your daily oral healthcare routine easy.
Q) How can I improve my smile?
A) That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile and assist you with a workable payment plan.
Q) You're treating my son/daughter with braces, but I want a straighter smile too! I don't want the immature look of braces, is there a solution for me?
A) Absolutely. As certified clear aligners dentist, Dr. Tate offers a clear, removable alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligners use 3D imaging to design a custom set of aligners, then the patient wears a new aligner every few weeks. For big events and special occasions, simply remove the aligner. This makes cleaning easy, too. If you aren't a candidate for clear aligners, consider traditional braces with clear brackets. This less obvious orthodontia is popular with teens and adults. Make an appointment to learn which treatment will suit your lifestyle best.
Q) How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
A) Depending on your unique case, Dr. Tate may suggest porcelain veneers or clear aligners. Read more about these procedures in our services area.
Q) How can I make my smile brighter?
A) We offer custom-made take-home trays with professional whitening gel for safe and effective teeth whitening in the comfort of your own home. Home whitening yields excellent results – up to eight shades or better! Two weeks of use produces optimal results, but if your teeth reach the desired shade before then, simply discontinue treatment.
Q) What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?
A) Well, we'd like to start by evaluating your oral health, existing smile, and discussing your idea of a spectacular smile. As an experienced cosmetic dentist, Dr. Tate may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, replacement teeth, and replacing metal dental work with esthetic restorations. However, your smile may benefit from some artistic bonding and reshaping or teeth whitening. Maybe clear aligners will give you the straight smile you've always wanted. Call to schedule a cosmetic consultation with Dr. Tate; we'll determine the best road to your ideal smile.
Q) Do you accept dental insurance?
A) Yes. We will file out-of-network insurance claims with your provider if they allow. Please expect to pay your estimated portion of your bill at your appointment. If your provider does not pay their complete estimated portion, we will adjust your account to reflect the balance.
Click here to review our financial policy.
Q) How can I pay for my dental work?
A) We accept cash, check, and credit cards. For patients who wish to finance their dental work, we accept plans through CareCredit, a trusted name in patient financing. CareCredit offers no-interest options for qualified applicants. Ask us about financing, or call us for more information or apply online at CareCredit for your convenience.
