Frequently Asked Questions

Once you provide us with your dental insurance card/information, we will get a full breakdown of your dental coverage, to include pre-authorizations for certain treatment. It is important to provide Southeast Smiles with accurate plan information when you make your appointment to ensure we can get your breakdown completed prior to your treatment. If you have specific questions about your dental insurance coverage, please contact your Human Resources Department for more information.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete paperwork or access our paperwork online prior to your appointment. After reviewing your dental history/concerns, x-rays may be taken to get a better understanding of your oral health and see any underlying issues not visible to the eye.

Cleaning:
If you’re appointment is for a cleaning, our highly trained and experienced hygienists at Southeast Smiles carefully clean your teeth with a variety of dental tools to remove any tartar from your teeth followed by flossing, and ending with a polishing compound and fluoride application. A full periodontal evaluation with gum measurements is performed to assess whether your gums are healthy or inflamed due to periodontal disease (gum disease) that results in bone loss.

Exam:
Dr. Panchal begins your oral exam by inspecting your teeth to evaluate the condition of your existing dental work and determine whether you have any cavities. He will also review x-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums, which will help determine the extent of your dental issues not visible to the naked eye. Cleanings are a routine procedure recommended at least twice a year or more if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease. If Dr. Panchal finds tooth decay or gum disease, he will discuss ways to improve your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, he may recommend further dental treatments.

Treatment Plan:
After your exam, if further dental treatment is recommended, our highly trained and knowledgeable staff will review the plan based on priority and ensure you are comfortable and answer any questions you may have regarding your future treatment.

At Southeast Smiles we utilize advanced digital x-ray technology and we are committed to providing the safest environment for our patients. Digital x-rays provide images of your jaw and teeth with 80% less exposure than traditional x-ray film technology, making it a safe choice. In order to determine if there are any underlying problems or concerns, x-rays are necessary for the doctor to see decay or issues not visible to the eye.

Fluoride is one most effective ways to combat and to help prevent tooth decay.  It is a natural mineral found in varying amounts in almost all foods and water. The benefits of fluoride treatment have been well known for years and are supported by many health and professional dental organizations. Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to tooth decay.  Southeast Smiles Family Dentistry recommends that children and adults have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups for the following reasons:

• Deep Pits And Fissures On The Chewing Surfaces Of Teeth
• Exposed And Sensitive Root Surfaces
• Poor To Fair Oral Hygiene Habits
• Frequent Sugar And Carbohydrate Intake
• Consumption of coffee, tea, juice, sodas, and other acidic beverages
• Inadequate Exposure To Fluoride
• Inadequate Saliva Flow Due To Medical Conditions, Treatments Or Medications
• Recent History Of Dental Decay

Remember, fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay and it is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly and visit Southeast Smiles for regular dental exams and treatment.

At Southeast Smiles we offer third party financing options through Lending Club and CareCredit. Both are great options to help complete your dental treatment while giving you the ability to breakdown payments.

Absolutely! At Southeast Smiles we are a family dental office and love seeing everyone from grandparents to kids. We welcome all children, however, there may be times Dr. Panchal will refer your child to a specialist where they can be treated in an atmosphere more tailored treat your child’s needs.