Patient Information

Your First Visit

If you are visiting our office for your first comprehensive exam, please know we will reserve two hours for this appointment. We will review your medical and dental histories and discuss if you have any concerns about your dental health. If you do not have recent x-rays taken at a previous office, we will also take new diagnostic x-rays and complete your exam. If time allows, we will also clean your teeth at that first appointment as well. If you require a more extensive cleaning, we will schedule another appointment for you in order to complete your treatment.

If you are coming into our office for the first time on an emergency basis, your immediate needs will be addressed that day. If desired, we will then reschedule you for a comprehensive exam.

You may save yourself time by downloading our patient registration and medical history forms.

Our goal is to offer comprehensive dental care that easily fits into your family budget.

We accept a variety of payment options:

Cash

Personal Checks

Credit Cards

Debit Cards

Dental Insurance

Care Credit: a health care financing method that offers interest-free payments to qualified applicants.

We also accept most dental insurance. Please feel free to call our office to make an appointment and to ask any questions you may have. Our experienced staff will file all necessary paperwork and will work with you to ensure you are able to maximize your dental benefits.

An experience that's easy to love, thats why so many people do.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common causes for bad breath?

While bad breath (or “halitosis”) can be linked to numerous systemic diseases, some of bad breath originates in the mouth. A dry mouth or a low salivary flow can also influence bad odor. There are two main goals in the management of bad breath. First, controlling the bacteria that produce the sulfur compounds and second, to neutralize the sulfur compounds that are produced. See your Dentist to discuss the best options for you.

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

Call our office immediately. Our doctors see their established patients outside business hours on an emergency basis. We always leave their cell phone numbers on the after business hours machine.

What can I do about discolored teeth?

There are numerous types of teeth stains; some are genetic, environmental or pharmacological in nature. The most common are surface stains on the enamel or beneath the enamel in the dentin. Surface stains are caused by foods, beverages and lifestyle behaviors, like smoking. Over time, surface stains may penetrate the enamel and change the color of the dentin, which darkens the overall appearance of the tooth due to the translucency of the enamel layer. When this occurs, the tooth often appears yellow.

While you have many options for whitening your teeth, your dental professional is the best resource for whitening treatments. Only dental professionals have access to the most powerful, professional-strength whitening and can ensure your treatment is safe and your results are outstanding. Dental Health Associates offers several options for at-home whitening and customized whitening trays. Ask our staff for more details!

Are there benefits to electric versus manual toothbrushes?

While both electric and manual toothbrushes have pros and cons, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, the best toothbrush is the one you will actually use. Thus, deciding between a manual and electric toothbrush ultimately comes down to personal preference. After your cleaning visit, you and your hygienist can discuss which option is best for you and your lifestyle.

How often should I brush/floss my teeth?

Brushing and flossing of the teeth controls the bacteria (also called plaque) that grow on the teeth and in the gums. If these bacteria are not removed adequately on a regular basis they will cause tooth decay and gum disease.

It is important that you brush your teeth at least two times per day, in the morning and at night, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is important that you brush all surfaces of the teeth (inner, outer, and chewing) and that the toothbrush bristles are in contact with the gum line when brushing the outer and inner portions. Electric toothbrushes are recommended as they are more efficient at removing plaque.

Flossing should be done at least once per day, preferably at night. It is important to curve the floss around each tooth and extend it below the gum line while cleaning the side of each tooth. If you have any questions about brushing or flossing techniques please ask your hygienist at your next visit.

How often should I get my teeth cleaned?

In a perfect world, everyone would brush and floss twice a day. Plaque builds up over time and this sticky bacterial film can solidify and turn into calculus or tartar.

This cement-like substance is removed by the hygienist at your regular cleaning visits. The average patient requires a six-month interval but some require a three-month interval. It not only serves to keep your mouth healthy and clean, but it also allows potential problems to be found and diagnosed earlier.

Do I need to show up early to my first appointment?

Yes. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill our patient forms unless you printed them and filled them out from our website. Link to these forms can be found here under New Patient forms.

What should I bring with me to my appointment?

If you haven’t filled out our online patient forms please arrive 10-15 minutes early to do so, or download our New Patient forms here.

Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:

  • Patient Information Form
  • Dental Insurance Card (if applicable)
  • Patient Medical/Dental History Form
  • Medication List
  • Premedication if instructed by a surgeon (heart valve replacements, joint replacements)

How long is a normal checkup appointment?

A New Patient Exam appointment generally takes between 1.5-2 hours. After that, a normal checkup is scheduled for 1 hour.

How can I schedule an appointment?

You can send us a message to request an appointment on our contact page or if you prefer you can call or text us at us at (320) 762-1551 to discuss options or go over questions. We always love hearing from you.