What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your first visit is our chance to show you why Glendale Family Dentistry is making people smile. As we gather data about your oral health, you will be given the opportunity to share your preferences, concerns and needs to let us know how we may best serve you.
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If you have had x-rays taken at your previous dental office, you can request them to be forwarded to us. This might save you time and money. A full mouth series of x-rays is typically updated every 3 to 5 years and bitewings each year. Your previous dental office will be aware of these guidelines and will send whatever appropriate images they have. As we are digital, they are welcome to email your x-rays to info@MakingPeopleSmile.com. Your previous dentist may ask that you sign a release of records form prior to releasing any information to us.
Note: Our office utilizes digital radiography thereby greatly reducing your exposure to radiation compared to conventional analog systems. We are happy to honor any current x-rays your previous dentist may send our way. It is vital that we have diagnostic quality radiographs. We will retake any necessary films to be able to properly diagnose and treat you regardless of your insurance coverage and what was done at another office.
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Welcome to our office! We look forward to showing you how Glendale Family Dentistry is making people smile!
Before You Come
Our registration forms are available online for your convenience. We also will have them available in office if you choose to complete them when you arrive for your appointment. Please allow 10 to 15 minutes of extra time before your appointment to fill out paperwork if you will not be bringing completed paperwork with you.
If you have dental insurance and were provided a card, please bring it with you. Sometimes a card is not given. We ask that you bring the name of your employer, the name of the dental insurance you have along with the address where we need to send the claims, and any group numbers or identification numbers associated with that plan. We will also need your social security number. This information can be obtained from your employer. Providing this at registration saves time and is necessary to help us process your claim.
Please arrive with a list of your current medications. IMPORTANT: Please alert our office if you have any medical conditions that may be of concern prior to dental procedures (i.e. artificial heart valves, joint replacement); or if you are on any medications (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy); or require medication prior to dental treatment (i.e. antibiotics prior to treatment).
Frequently Asked Questions
Teeth can be sensitive for several reasons including, but not limited to, failing restorations, excessive wear, and/or recession of the gums (root sensitivity). We will isolate the source of your sensitivity, determine the cause, and recommend the most conservative approach to get you comfortable, sometimes it is as easy as using a desensitizing toothpaste.
There are several options for whitening your teeth. At GFD we provide in office whitening for patients that want results quickly. We also provide custom take home whitening kits that are done in the comfort of your own home, they provide similar results but take a little longer. We can customize your whitening based on your individual desires.
Insurance companies will only cover the minimum amount of treatment needed by patients. If you have a history of periodontal disease (gum disease) or have a tendency to build up more calculus (tartar), you might require more than the minimum amount of treatment, so we might recommend cleanings every 3 or 4 months to better maintain your teeth.
Dental radiographs (x-rays) show us parts of the teeth and surrounding structures that we cannot see directly and are a necessary part of diagnosing in a comprehensive oral examination. Dental radiographs are safe. Our use of digital radiography significantly reduces radiation exposure and we make every attempt to further minimize the amount of radiation that our patients receive by only taking radiographs when necessary and by using lead apron and thyroid collar protection while taking radiographs.
For new patients, cleanings are not typically scheduled on the first visit because our doctors need to determine the length of time needed and type of cleaning required. We will then schedule you with one of our hygienists so that you receive a personalized cleaning designed for your individual needs.
We can usually see new patients within one week. We also keep emergency appointments available and will make every effort to see you as soon as possible if you are experiencing pain. Initial appointments take approximately one hour and they include a comprehensive oral exam, full set of radiographs (x-rays), and presentation of treatment recommendations.
No, our doctors realize that we cannot change the past and we will approach your care only looking forward. We will provide multiple treatment options to fit your budget, all in an attempt to achieve overall oral health.
Yes! We are accepting new patients and would welcome you into our growing practice.
Your insurance coverage is determined by your specific plan. Different plans cover different procedures at different rates of reimbursement. We can send insurance predeterminations before starting treatment so that you know what your insurance will cover. At GFD we define your treatment based on your oral health care needs, not what your insurance covers. A more comprehensive or complete answer can be obtained by the policy holder calling the insurance company, searching the insurance company web site or contacting the employers Human Resource Department.
The main difference between being in network vs. out of network is the level of reimbursement you will receive from your insurance company. When GFD is in network with an insurance company, we have signed a contract with that insurance company to provide care for their patients at a defined rate of reimbursement. Sometimes there is no difference between in or out of network reimbursement rates. A more comprehensive or complete answer can be obtained by the policy holder calling the insurance company, searching the insurance company web site or contacting the employers Human Resource Department.
We are in network with Anthem and Delta Dental. Regardless of your insurance, it is recommended that you confirm what reimbursement rate your policy covers. Even if we are out of network, you will still receive insurance benefits at the out of network rate of reimbursement. We will gladly answer any insurance questions you may have. Often times, a more comprehensive or complete answer can be obtained by the policy holder calling the insurance company, searching the insurance company web site or contacting the employers Human Resource Department.