Our dentists and team have provided answers to some frequently asked questions. At Smile 32, we know that dental care can sometimes be overwhelming and a little confusing, and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to understand and make decisions about your dental health. To learn more about dental care in Stockton, California, and make your appointment with Dr. Novan Nguyen and Dr. Kiranjot Dyal, please call our office at 209-952-9290.
How much will my first visit cost me?
As each insurance provider is different, we encourage you to contact our office to receive an accurate estimate of your treatment cost. Our office manager will discuss your treatment costs and financial options with you and work with you to find the right payment option for your budget. We offer several financing options to meet your needs.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
If you do not have insurance, our practice offers financing options through CareCredit, as well as a New Patient Special. With our special offer, you can receive a comprehensive exam, cleaning, and X-rays for only $69. Call our practice for more details.
Do you accept DSHS (medicaid, medicare, etc.)?
No. Our practice accepts many other insurance plans and offers flexible, affordable payment plans through CareCredit.
Is CareCredit an insurance policy?
No. CareCredit is a healthcare credit card. You qualify for this financing option on the strength of your credit history. CareCredit does not replace dental insurance. Instead, it helps you pay out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
What kind of payment options are provided by CareCredit?
CareCredit offers a full range of financing options. For purchases of $200 or more, there are 6, 12, 18, and 24-month plans available where you can avoid paying interest as long as you make your minimum monthly payments and pay the full amount due by the end of the promotional period. If the balance of your treatment is not paid by the end of that period, interest will be charged to your account.
What is the difference between HMO and PPO insurance?
HMO or DHMO plans (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) are pre-paid plans and require you to choose one dentist or dental practice. In some cases, a dentist is appointed for you. If you need a specialist, your primary care dentist will refer you, and you may require pre-authorization to receive treatment. You cannot choose your own dentist or go out-of-network for treatment.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans offer a network of dentists and usually offer a balance between lower costs and your choice of dentist. When you visit a dentist, you will typically pay a certain percentage of the rate (a co-payment), and the plan will cover the rest of the cost. This percentage varies by the type of coverage you have. PPO insurances usually require you to meet a deductible and have an annual maximum amount of coverage.
When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?
Your child should visit the dentist for the first time as soon as their teeth begin to come in, or no later than their first birthday. These initial visits will be focused on monitoring your child’s oral growth and development, and on helping them feel comfortable in the dentist’s office.
How often should I visit the dentist?
You should visit the dentist biannually for a dental cleaning and exam. Depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may recommend you to visit more frequently.
Why do I need to floss?
When you floss, you reach the areas between your tween and under your gum line where plaque and bacteria congregate. Keeping these areas clean helps prevent gum disease, periodontal disease, and other problems from developing.
Do braces hurt?
No. You may feel some aching and mild discomfort for a day or so following placement of your braces, and after your appliance has been readjusted. If you experience severe or long-lasting pain, it is a sign that something is wrong, and you should contact our dentists immediately.
Are there foods, I should avoid while wearing braces?
Yes. During orthodontic treatment, avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, and chewy foods. These types of foods can damage or get stuck in your braces. We will provide you with a specific list of foods to avoid during your treatment.
Are X-rays safe?
Yes. Dental X-rays produce minimal radiation, and advances in dental technology continue to reduce this level of exposure. Additionally, federal law requires X-ray machines be checked for safety and accuracy every 2 years.
I’m terrified of visiting the dentist, what should I do?
If you experience fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist, you are not alone. Many people avoid visiting the dentist for these reasons.
Please call our office to speak with our dentists about your anxieties. We take your fears seriously, and do everything we can to help you feel comfortable in our office. Our caring dental professionals are happy to work with you to relieve your anxieties and provide you with strategies to lessen your fears.