Dental FAQs: Trusted Answers From Your Dentist
Answering Our Patients’ Biggest Questions
At Mercer Sydell Dental, we believe an informed patient is a confident patient. Whether you are visiting our Dover, Milton, or Ocean View location for the first time or have been part of our dental family for years, it is completely natural to have questions. These dental FAQs are here to give you clear, honest answers so you can feel prepared and at ease before you ever sit down in the chair.
1. How Often Should I See a Dentist?
Most patients benefit from visiting their dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. However, the right frequency depends on your individual oral health needs. Patients managing gum disease, a history of cavities, or other ongoing concerns may need to come in more often. During your visit, our team will recommend a schedule that makes the most sense for your smile and your health goals.
2. What Happens During a Routine Dental Exam?
A routine exam is about much more than checking for cavities. Your dentist will evaluate the health of your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. We also perform oral cancer screenings at every visit, which is a quick and important step that many patients may not expect. Digital X-rays may be taken to identify any concerns that are not visible to the naked eye. Our team will review your findings with you and explain any recommended next steps in plain, straightforward language.
3. Do You Treat Patients With Dental Anxiety?
Absolutely. Dental anxiety is more common than most people realize, and our entire team is trained to create a calm, supportive environment. From the moment you walk through our doors, we focus on your comfort. Our dentists take time to listen, answer your questions, and move at a pace that feels right for you. If you have had difficult experiences in the past, please let us know so we can make your visit as comfortable as possible.
4. Are You Accepting New Patients?
Yes, we are always welcoming new patients at all three of our locations. Whether you are new to the area or simply looking for a dental home that feels more attentive and personalized, we would love to meet you and your family.
5. What Insurance Do You Accept?
Mercer Sydell Dental is an out-of-network provider. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, CareCredit, and in-house financing options to help make quality dental care as accessible as possible. If you have questions about your coverage or payment options, our front office team is happy to help before your visit.
6. What Is the Difference Between a Cleaning and a Periodontal Cleaning?
A standard dental cleaning, also called a prophylaxis, is designed for patients with generally healthy gums. A periodontal cleaning goes deeper. It is recommended for patients showing signs of gum disease and involves scaling and root planing to remove buildup from below the gumline. Our hygienists are trained to assess your gum health at every visit and will recommend the appropriate level of care for your needs.
7. Does Your Practice Offer Cosmetic Dentistry?
Yes. Our cosmetic dentistry services include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and more. Whether you are looking for a subtle refresh or a complete smile transformation, our dentist will work with you to create a plan that aligns with your goals, your timeline, and your budget.
8. What Makes Mercer Sydell Dental Different?
We are proud members of the Kois Center and the Wellness Dentistry Network, which means our dentists pursue advanced, ongoing education to stay current on the latest techniques and technologies. We also offer OralDNA and SimplyPerio testing, CBCT radiograph technology, and 3D printing through SprintRay, tools that allow us to deliver more precise, personalized care. Our whole-system approach to dental health, from the jaw joint to the individual tooth, means we treat the full picture, not just the symptom.
More Dental FAQs? We Are Here to Help
These dental FAQs cover some of the most common questions we hear, but we know your situation may call for a more personal conversation. Our team at Mercer Sydell Dental is always happy to talk through your concerns before your appointment. Call our Dover office at your convenience, or use our online scheduling tool to book your appointment at the Dover, Milton, or Ocean View location that works best for you. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental family.