FAQ

Q. How often should I see a dentist?
A. The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two visits per year.

Q. What should I expect during my initial appointment?
A. During your inital appointment, you will meet with Dr. Theroux and her assistant or one of our dental hygienists. We will update your medical and dental history then examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, take X-rays of your teeth as needed and complete a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) exam. After we review your dental profile, we will discuss a diagnosis and work up a treatment plan for you.  We will discuss your options for treatment and payment and help you determine the best plan to fit your needs.

During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, clean your teeth and make plans for treatment as needed. We will discuss any pain or problems you may be experiencing and answer any questions you may have.

Q. What does "painless dentistry" mean?
A. Painless dentistry is a means of ensuring your total experience in our office is as stress-free and pain-free as possible. We will discuss treatment options that may require no local anesthetic and, whenever possible, alleviate pain by the means most comfortable to you.

Q. What if I have an emergency?
A. Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will be glad to work you in to our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. After hours, over the weekend, and during holidays, please call our office for the Dr. Theroux's emergency contact number.

Q. Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?
A. We offer a low interest rate payment plan and also accept most major credit cards including MasterCard and Visa, American Express, Discover, and Care Credit.

Q. Can the dentist whiten my teeth?
A. There are several methods available for whitening the teeth. The first step in moving forward with whitening is ensuring the teeth are cavity free.  After the doctor does an examination, she will recommend the whitening option that is best for you. Zoom chairside whitening is done in our office and will give you the quickest and best results.  We also offer custom and non-custom take home bleaching options. 

Other over-the-counter daily bleaching products are available, but it is important to use any bleaching product only under the supervision of a dentist. To achieve the whitening results you desire, the ADA recommends that you seek the professional advice of a dentist in order to diagnose the cause of tooth discoloration before you begin any bleaching program.

Q. What if I have a gap in my teeth, a chipped tooth, or teeth that do not respond to normal bleaching methods?
A. Porcelain veneers or cosmetic bonding might be a good solution.  Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually and permanently attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Cosmetic bonding utilizes a composite material to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth and can be long lasting and very natural.