|
We know you feel more comfortable when you can walk through the doors of our office with many of your questions answered. That’s why we’ve posted our most frequently asked questions below. If you are looking for an answer to a question that you don’t see listed below, call us at 843-842-2300 so we can help you.
Can you show me what my smile will look like ahead of time?
Yes, we can. First, Dr. Tudor will take photos with his digital and intra oral cameras and get impressions of your teeth. Using these, his lab will create diagnostic wax-ups of your teeth. Then, using the photos and the wax ups, Dr. Tudor can point out a trouble area in your mouth or show you how a particular treatment will change the appearance of your teeth.
How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
When you first visit our practice, we recommend visiting us every six months. Dr. Tudor may adjust this time period depending on the state of your teeth.
Do you accept referrals?
Yes. New patients, part-time residents, and previous patients are always welcome in our office.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
In this day and age, we know deciphering your insurance benefits can be confusing. When you come in to visit us, please bring in your insurance card. Our office team is always happy to help verify and assist you with filing insurance.
We feel, however, that your insurance should never dictate the quality or timing of your treatment. When you have extensive or long term dental care, our office can arrange financial assistance for you. If you have any questions, call us at 843-842-2300.
Will I be charged if I need to cancel an appointment?
We know your schedule can change abruptly. Please call us immediately so we can reschedule you. If you cancel within 24 hours before your scheduled time, we reserve the right to charge you a cancellation fee.
We ask that you try not to put off appointments by canceling at the last minute. If you have problems in your mouth, you need to get the work done as soon as possible to avoid spending more time and money on your teeth. Also, when you cancel, it’s hard for Dr. Tudor to help other patients who are also waiting for his services.
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
Dr. Tudor is one of the only dentists on Hilton Head that will work over lunch, evenings and weekends… whenever you need him. If you have an emergency, please call our emergency cell phone at 843-298-0492 and leave a message. Dr. Tudor will get back with you shortly.
I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What happens if it comes off or breaks?
When a temporary crown falls off or breaks, reattach the crown using dental adhesive or toothpaste. Then, call us immediately so we can schedule an appointment to evaluate the damage.
What different payment options do you provide?
Our office accepts cash, check and credit cards such as Master Card, Visa and Discover. We do expect payment at the time of service, unless prior arrangements have been made.
How can I ask Dr. Tudor questions directly?
Dr. Tudor welcomes any of your questions during your visit. If you have questions before your visit, you can call our office at 843-842-2300.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
Many of our patients ask about whitening their teeth. Since each mouth is unique, we need to evaluate your teeth to recommend the specific method appropriate for you. If your teeth are cracked, chipped or discolored, Dr. Tudor may recommend one of our restorative services, such as veneers or bonding. If you want to bleach your teeth, we use Brite Smile® in our office.
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
We take several precautions to ensure your safety as our patient. First, our office complies and exceeds OSHA standards for safety. We keep up-to-date on the latest sterilization procedures and research. Our instruments are also thoroughly sterilized in accordance with ADA accepted guidelines. Most importantly, we have a sterilization center where we can maximize efficient sterilization and minimize the chance of contamination through human error. If you have any questions, we would be happy to demonstrate our sterilization procedures.
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials…where can I learn more about these procedures?
Dr. Tudor usually recommends these restorative procedures as part of a permanent restoration. They are more durable, easy on your mouth, and aesthetic looking.
If you are curious about any procedure we recommend, we welcome your questions. Dr. Tudor strives to keep up on the latest research and findings. You can also use Caesy, the patient education system in our office, to print information on a particular procedure.
I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
There are a variety of ways to improve the appearance of your teeth without braces. We offer many cosmetic services to straighten your teeth. If you would like to enhance the appearance of your smile, call us so we can schedule an appointment with Dr. Tudor. After listening to your goals and concerns, he can suggest ways to help you straighten your smile.
I really do not like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?
We can tell when people are nervous about being in a dentist’s office. Nothing seems to help them relax. That’s why we offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide (also called laughing gas) to make your visit comfortable.
Before we can give you sedation or nitrous, however, we need to discuss your medical history with you. We will ask whether you or anyone in your family has had difficulty with anesthetics. We also want to know if you are pregnant, taking steroids, or are on medication for high blood pressure.
|