Before any treatment is rendered, Dr. Keith or Dr. Denson will provide you with a pre-treatment estimate which, will include the costs for the procedure. This pre-estimate will be sent to your insurance company if you wish and they will let you know what your insurance policy covers. In today's market, dental insurance policies vary a great deal depending on what your company purchased. A problem common to most dental plans is that unlike medical insurance they have a very small yearly maximum allowance. Most dental plans have a yearly maximum of $1 000.00 to $1,500.00 which unfortunately does not cover much in today's dollars. In 1970, the average yearly maximum allowance at that time was $1,000.00. A thousand dollars bought something years ago but unfortunately, dental insurance allowances have not kept up with inflation even though the premiums they ask you to pay have skyrocketed.

We cannot accept HMOs
We will file on all PPO insurance for you.

Some dental insurance plans are not insurance at all - they are medical PPO's or HMO's with a dental rider. These plans are usually a list of fixed fees for certain, (but not all) procedures, or a fixed percentage reduction in the fees charged. In these plans, it is usually the patient who pays the whole treatment fee but at a reduced rate. This is the worst kind of benefit because it costs the patient the most out of pocket, but the insurance company pays little or none.

Another way that the insurance companies limit their coverage is a term called UCR. Typically, the insurance company and your employer determine the reimbursement level that varies from 50% to 90% of what dentists in the area charge. For a particular procedure that most dentists charge $550.00, for example, if the employer wants to keep costs down, one option is to buy a plan that reimburses at a reduced level. In other words, instead of reimbursing at $550.00 or higher, it may only reimburse at $450.00 or less on the same procedure. (percentage of $450, instead of percentage of $550).

The insurance company calls $450.00 their "UCR Fee" so this reduces the cost of the insurance policy to your employer. If our charge is $550.00 (the amount that most dentists charges), the carrier is likely to state that our fee was above the "Usual, Customary, and Reasonable" fee. This comment would naturally make you think that our fee is higher than most, which is not the case. Although this can be a common misconception, it would be more accurate to state that your employer chose a plan that does not reimburse at the level most dentists charge in the area. The patient is responsible for more "out of pocket" expense because their coverage was reduced to lower the premiums of the policy.

It is also important to realize other employers with the same insurance company (or even those, with a different carrier) would consider the $550.00 a "reasonable" fee. Our office strives to produce excellence on a daily basis. In many instances there is nothing "usual or customary" about how you are treated while under our care. Our fees are based on the skill, care, judgment and office environment that it takes to consistently provide you with the best care possible anywhere in the world.

We recommend that you get a dental checkup at least once every six months. This is the general rule of thumb for most people, allowing us dental professionals to catch any potential problems early on. However, depending on your risk factors, we recommend a different frequency for checkups. For example, if you have a history of oral disease or are at higher risk for developing one, we may suggest more frequent visits.

No matter what frequency we recommend, it's important to keep up with regular checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health.

Baby bottle tooth decay is a form of tooth decay that affects infants and toddlers. It occurs when the baby's teeth frequently come into contact with sugary liquids, such as formula milk, fruit juice, and syrups. This prolonged exposure to sugar causes bacteria in the mouth to feed on it, multiply, and produce acid, which can lead to cavities in the baby's teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay most often affects the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected.

Several factors can contribute to baby bottle tooth decay. These include putting babies to bed or down for a nap with bottles containing sweetened liquids, using pacifiers dipped in sugary substances such as honey or syrup, and not brushing their teeth regularly or properly. It is important to take care of your baby's teeth by handling pacifiers, spoons, and cups with care, never putting them down for a nap with a bottle, and brushing their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

If your child develops baby bottle tooth decay, it is important to seek treatment from a dentist immediately. Treatment options may include fillings or crowns to repair damaged teeth, antibiotics if an infection is present, or even extraction if the damage is too severe. Prevention is key when avoiding this condition, so ensure you take proper care of your child's oral health from an early age.

Dental bonding is a great option for improving the appearance of teeth. It is a cosmetic dentistry procedure in which tooth-colored resin is applied to the teeth and can be shaped, sized, and shaded to match the natural color of your teeth. This resin can be used to repair chips, cracks, discoloration, or gaps in teeth. People can also use it to change the shape of teeth and make them look straighter. The process is quick and painless, and results are usually immediate.

The best way to determine if dental bonding is right for you is to consult your dentist. They will evaluate your oral health and discuss what options are available for improving the appearance of your teeth.

Overall, dental bonding is an effective and affordable way to improve the appearance of your smile. Proper care and maintenance can last up to 10 years or more.

Bridges are structures built to span physical obstacles, such as rivers, valleys, or roads. They are used to provide passage over these obstacles and to connect two different areas. Bridges can be made from various materials, including wood, stone, steel, and concrete.

Bridges are important because they provide access to places that would otherwise be inaccessible due to physical barriers. By connecting two areas with a bridge, people can travel more easily between them without having to take a long detour around the obstacle. This makes it easier for people to get where they need to go quickly and safely while reducing traffic congestion on other routes.

In addition to providing transportation benefits, bridges also have aesthetic value. Many bridges are designed with unique features that make them stand out as architectural landmarks in their respective cities. These features range from intricate designs on the bridge to decorative lighting or sculptures.

Bruxism is a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, usually unconsciously. It affects around 8-10% of the population and can happen during the day or while you sleep. It is often related to stress or anxiety, but it can also be caused by other factors such as misaligned teeth, certain medications, substance abuse, and sleep disorders.

Treatment for bruxism depends on the severity of the condition and can include lifestyle changes such as reducing stress and avoiding substances that may contribute to bruxism. In more severe cases, treatments such as mouth guards or splints may be recommended by a dentist to protect your teeth from further damage.

If you think you may have bruxism, it's important to speak with your doctor or dentist so they can help determine the cause and provide treatment options.

Cosmetic dentistry, also known as aesthetic dentistry, is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. It can involve a variety of treatments, from simple teeth whitening to more complex procedures such as dental bonding and veneers.

The main goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the look of your teeth and smile. This can be done in many ways, including whitening your teeth, reshaping them, or even replacing them with artificial ones. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your smile, cosmetic dentistry can also help improve your oral health by correcting misalignment issues or repairing damaged teeth.

For those looking for an easy way to improve their smiles, teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments cosmetic dentists offer. Teeth whitening can help remove stains caused by food and drinks or brighten up dull-looking teeth. Other treatments, such as dental bonding and veneers, are more involved procedures that require more time and money but can provide longer-lasting results.

Crowns, also known as tooth caps, are a dental restoration used to cover and protect a damaged or decayed tooth. They are designed to look and feel like natural teeth and are custom-made to fit over the existing tooth structure. Crowns can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, gold, or metal alloys.

Crowns are most commonly used in dentistry when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling. Patients can also use them to strengthen a weak tooth, cover discolored teeth, restore broken teeth, or improve the appearance of misshapen teeth. In some cases, crowns may be recommended after root canal therapy to provide additional protection for the treated tooth.

Overall, crowns effectively restore the function and aesthetics of damaged teeth while protecting them from further harm.

Dental emergencies can range from a toothache to a broken jaw, and it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of common dental emergencies. Some of the most common dental emergencies include unexplainable toothaches, swollen or bleeding gums, swollen jaw or mouth, exposed nerves, knocked-out teeth, cracked or broken teeth, severe tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and an abscess in the mouth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you must seek immediate treatment from your dentist. We provide quick and effective treatments for any dental emergency.

It is also important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to prevent dental emergencies from occurring in the first place.

Fluoride is an element that is beneficial to teeth, as it helps prevent tooth decay by making the surface of teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. However, too little or too much fluoride can harm the teeth. Little or no fluoride will not strengthen the teeth to help them resist cavities. In contrast, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, a chalky white to even brown discolouration of the permanent teeth.

Parents should be aware of their child's potential sources of fluoride to prevent dental fluorosis. These sources include too much-fluoridated toothpaste at an early age, inappropriate use of fluoride supplements, hidden sources of fluoride in the child's diet, and two and three-year-olds who may not be able to expectorate (spit out) fluoride-containing toothpaste when brushing. Excessive and inappropriate intake of fluoride supplements may also contribute to fluorosis. One should not give fluoride drops, tablets, and fluoride-fortified vitamins to infants younger than six months of age. After that time, fluoride supplements should only be given after all other sources of ingested fluoride have been accounted for and upon the advice of a healthcare professional.

The relationship between diet and oral health is highly significant. Eating a balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups can help promote healthy teeth and gums. Foods high in calcium, such as cheese, milk, plain yogurt, calcium-fortified tofu, leafy greens, and almonds, are beneficial for tooth health. Additionally, limiting the consumption of sugars has been associated with an increased risk of dental caries. On the other hand, eating whole grains and lean protein sources such as lean meat or fish can help protect your teeth from decay.

It is also important to note that unhealthy diets can negatively affect oral health. Poor nutrition can cause tooth loss and bad breath due to gum disease. Therefore it is important to maintain a healthy diet to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Overall, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for good oral health. Choosing nutritious snacks such as fruits or vegetables instead of sugary treats will help keep your mouth healthy and strong.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone to hold a prosthetic tooth or bridge. They are typically made of titanium, which is a material that is compatible with the human body. Dental implants provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth and can be used for cosmetic and functional reasons.

The process of getting dental implants involves several steps. First, the dentist will assess your mouth to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If approved, they will surgically place the implant into your jawbone and allow it to heal for several months before attaching the prosthetic tooth or bridge. During this time, your dentist may also recommend additional treatments such as bone grafting or sinus lifts to ensure that the implant is secure and successful.

Dental implants offer many advantages over other teeth replacement options, such as bridges and dentures. They look and feel like natural teeth, provide stability and durability, and can last a lifetime with proper care. Additionally, they help preserve healthy bone in the jaw by stimulating new bone growth around them.

Inlays and onlays are recommended by dentists when a tooth has been damaged or decayed to the point where a filling is not enough to restore it. Inlays and onlays are used to fill cavities and then cemented in place in the tooth. This is an alternative to a direct restoration, such as a crown covering the entire tooth. An inlay is used to fill larger holes or areas between the tooth's cusps, while an onlay will entirely cover the tooth's cusp.

Inlays and onlays are made from materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin. They can be either direct or indirect restorations. Direct restorations are made by the dentist within a dental office setting, while indirect restorations are fabricated outside of the dental office using impressions taken by the dentist.

Inlays and onlays provide strength and durability for teeth that have been damaged or decayed beyond what can be restored with a filling. They also help protect against further damage or decay and improve your smile's overall aesthetics.

Mouth guards are dental appliances covering teeth and protect against injury. They protect the teeth from grinding, clenching, and sports-related injuries.

Mouth guards come in various types, including custom-fitted mouth guards made by dentists, boil-and-bite mouth guards that can be adjusted at home, and stock mouth guards that are preformed and ready to wear. Custom-fitted mouth guards provide the best fit and protection, while boil-and-bite and stock mouth guards offer more affordable options.

Mouth guards can help protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching during sleep and sports injuries. Wearing a mouth guard can also help reduce jaw pain associated with the temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Overall, mouthguards are important for protecting your teeth from damage and injury. Wearing a properly fitted mouth guard when playing sports or sleeping can help ensure your teeth stay healthy for years to come.

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects the mouth, lips, and throat. It can be caused by various factors, including smoking, drinking alcohol, and exposure to certain viruses. The most common symptoms of oral cancer include red or white patches in the mouth or throat, lumps or bumps, and ulcers. Other signs may include swallowing pain, speech changes, difficulty chewing, and unintentional weight loss.

Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking cigarettes or cigars, drinking alcohol excessively, having HPV (human papillomavirus), being exposed to sunlight for long periods without protection, and having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy.

If you experience any of these symptoms or risk factors, you must see your doctor immediately, as early detection is key for successful treatment.

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The term "root canal" comes from cleaning the canals inside the tooth's root, which are filled with nerves, blood vessels and other tissue. Without root canal treatment, the tooth may need to be removed.

Root canal treatment is needed when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected due to decay or injury. The infection can spread to the surrounding bone and cause pain, swelling and even abscesses if left untreated. Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp and replaces it with a special filling material, which helps prevent further infection and restores the tooth's function.

The procedure often involves numbing the area around the affected tooth before removing any decay or damaged tissue. The canals are then cleaned out and sealed with a filling material. In some cases, a crown may be placed on top of the treated tooth for extra protection.

Root canal treatment usually saves the tooth and clears up any infection, with around 9 out of 10 root-treated teeth surviving for 8 to 10 years. It can help relieve pain caused by an infected or abscessed tooth while preventing further damage or infection from occurring in that area of your mouth.

A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces (grooves) of the back teeth (premolars and molars), where four out of five cavities in children are found. This sealant acts as a barrier to food, plaque and acid, thus protecting the decay-prone areas of the teeth.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-coloured materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They can correct stained, chipped, discoloured, misshapen and slightly crooked teeth. Veneers can improve the aesthetics of a smile and protect the tooth's surface from damage.

Veneers are typically made out of porcelain or composite resin material. Porcelain veneers are more durable and stain resistant than composite veneers and provide a more natural look. Composite veneers can be done in one visit and require less enamel removal from the tooth than porcelain veneers.

Before getting veneers, it is important to discuss with your dentist what type of veneer is best for you and whether or not you are a good candidate for them.