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I just want a cleaning. Why do I need an exam & x-rays?We highly recommend scheduling an oral evaluation with our dentist before arranging an appointment for your routine teeth cleaning. This practice serves two significant purposes: Early Problem Detection: Regular dental examinations are instrumental in identifying potential dental issues in their initial stages, preventing them from advancing to more severe and costly conditions. Periodontal Health Assessment: A substantial number of adults experience some form of periodontal, or gum, disease that may not respond to standard teeth cleanings. Undergoing an evaluation allows our dentist to comprehensively assess the condition of your gums and, if necessary, prescribe the most suitable treatment to ensure optimal periodontal health. This proactive approach to dental care is designed to safeguard your oral health and financial well-being, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and tailored treatment when required.
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Do you offer gas, sedation, or general anesthesia (being "put to sleep")?Our office does not offer nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") or other sedation options for dental procedures. Nevertheless, we are dedicated to ensuring our patients experience a high level of comfort during their treatment. Through Dr. Nguyen's meticulous approach to dentistry, we have observed that sedation is typically unnecessary for the majority of our patients. ​ Dr. Nguyen places a strong emphasis on patient comfort, making it a fundamental aspect of his practice. He takes great care to ensure that patients do not experience any discomfort during their treatment. Dr. Nguyen's gentle approach is often complemented by the precise administration of local anesthesia, such as lidocaine or numbing shots, to ensure a painless and comfortable experience. Many of our patients have expressed their appreciation for Dr. Nguyen's skill and gentleness, often remarking that they do not feel any discomfort when receiving injections. ​ For patients with severe anxiety or fear related to dental treatment, we may explore the possibility of prescribing medication to alleviate these concerns, contingent upon a thorough examination. In the rare event that extreme anxiety necessitates sedation, we may refer you to a qualified dentist who specializes in providing sedation techniques. Your well-being and peace of mind remain paramount, and we are committed to addressing your unique needs with the highest level of care and consideration.
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What payment types do you accept?Our office welcomes a variety of payment methods, providing our patients with flexibility and convenience. We accept the following forms of payment: Cash Checks American Express Discover Visa Mastercard Debit Cards CareCredit This diverse array of payment options ensures that our patients can choose the method that best suits their individual preferences and financial requirements.
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What is the age range of patients you treat?Our practice extends our dental care to patients of all ages, beginning at the age of 12. While we are well-equipped to provide comprehensive dental services for most pediatric patients, it is important to note that in certain situations, children under the age of 12 may benefit from a referral to a specialized pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists possess unique training and expertise in managing younger patients who may experience dental anxiety or exhibit challenging behavior. This ensures that every child receives the most appropriate and comfortable care to meet their specific needs.
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Do you offer payment plans?Regrettably, our practice does not provide payment plans due to the potential risk associated with unpaid balances. We have made a deliberate decision not to offer payment plans to maintain the financial stability of our practice. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
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Do you take patient walk-ins?To expedite the process and minimize wait times, we strongly recommend contacting our office in advance to arrange a suitable appointment. Our dedicated team is well-prepared to accommodate your needs, and in most cases, we ensure you receive timely and attentive care. Your well-being remains our top priority.
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What is the difference between Prophylaxis and Periodontal Maintenance?Prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance are two distinct types of dental cleanings, each tailored to address specific oral health needs: ​ Prophylaxis (Prophy): This is a routine dental cleaning typically performed on patients with healthy gums and no history of periodontal disease. Prophylaxis is part of regular preventive dental care and aims to maintain the overall health of the mouth. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar (calculus) from the teeth, polishing the tooth surfaces, and fluoride treatment to help prevent tooth decay. Prophy cleanings are typically recommended for patients with no signs of gum disease and are usually scheduled every six months as part of routine dental check-ups. Periodontal Maintenance: Periodontal maintenance, on the other hand, is a deeper and more specialized cleaning procedure intended for patients who have a history of gum disease (periodontal disease). This treatment is necessary to manage and maintain the health of the gums and prevent the progression of the disease. Periodontal maintenance involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gumline, as well as the monitoring of the patient's periodontal condition. These cleanings are typically performed more frequently than prophylaxis and may occur every three to four months or as recommended by the dentist or periodontist. ​ In summary, prophylaxis is a routine cleaning for patients with healthy gums, while periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning for patients with a history of gum disease to prevent its recurrence and maintain gum health. The choice between these two types of cleanings is determined by the patient's oral health status and the recommendations of the dental professional.
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I have dental records from my previous office that I want to transfer to your officeIf you have your dental records, you can conveniently send those records on our email: lacholladentalgroup@yahoo.com or we can get it for you by filling out our release of records authorization form.
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What Insurance plans do you accept?We take nearly all PPO plans, in addition to some Medicare Plans. Click HERE for a list of plans we accept.
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I think I need a tooth pulled/filled/etc. How much will it cost?Due to the complexity of dental disease, it is nearly impossible to diagnose dental problems without a visual examination of the patient and any necessary x-rays. This is true regarding all restorative dental procedures, including fillings, extractions, prosthetics, & periodontal treatment. In order to be given a cost estimate, you must be seen in our office first.
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