Ainsworth Family Dental
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my insurance cover my visit?
Insurance coverage varies from plan to plan. When you come for your first visit, please provide us with all the information that you have regarding your dental plan. At your routine visits, please update us if your insurance has changed.
Typically, insurance plans cover 100% of preventive services which include doctor exams, x-rays and simple cleanings (not deep cleanings).
For almost all other dental services, your insurance will pay a percentage of our fee and you will be responsible for the remaining balance. It is difficult for us to predict exactly how much your insurance will pay and what your portion will be unless we submit a pre-determination. This process typically takes 30-60 days.
Keep in mind that dental plans have a yearly maximum ranging from $1000-$2500. Once you reach your maximum for the year you will be responsible for 100% of the fee.
What if I have a dental emergency after hours?
When you call our office after hours, it will direct you to our voicemail and one of our dentists will be in contact with you to figure out a plan to help you relieve the pain.
Is it possible to get a same-day appointment?
Same-day appointments are often available. If you are experiencing severe dental pain please let us know and we will try our best to accommodate you as soon as possible.
What if I need dental treatment when pregnant?
Dental cleanings and routine care are very important during pregnancy. It is normal for your gums to bleed more due to hormonal changes so it is even more imperative that you keep up with your daily home hygiene routine (brush twice a day and floss before bed time) and see your dentist for your 6 month cleanings.
We will not take x-rays unless they are needed. Elective dental treatment is recommended to be postponed until you have your baby. If we discover a cavity or infection that could become a problem, the best time to do dental treatment is the second trimester. We will use local anesthetic numbing agents that are appropriate during pregnancy. Remember that during your pregnancy, nitrous oxide is never recommended.
Do you offer financing options?
We understand the cost of quality dental care can sometimes be overwhelming. Please talk to us about any financial questions you may have at your appointment. It is best to plan ahead for any upcoming treatment that you may need. We offer Care Credit for the convenience of our patients.
I suffer from dental anxiety. What anti-anxiety options to you offer?
You are not alone. Many people dislike coming to the dentist, so don't be embarrassed. We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) per your request. Nitrous oxide is a very safe gas and is out of your system in 5 minutes so you can drive and/or go back to work after your appointment. If you would like something stronger, please talk to Dr. Ainsworth or Dr. Wilbourn about anti-anxiety medication options that you can take prior to your appointment. They can determine what is best for you. In addition, we have a relationship with a dental anesthesiologist if full sedation is requested.
It has been a while since I've been to the dentist, what should I expect at my first visit?
We're glad to hear you are thinking about and valuing your oral health! If you are due for a cleaning, we will schedule you for a cleaning with our hygienist and an exam with a dentist. If you need treatment please let us know and we will put you on the doctor's schedule first. We will take x-rays, measure your gum health and determine if you need a deep cleaning or a regular cleaning. In addition, we will put together a treatment plan for you if any dental work is needed.
What if I need Pre-Med before my appointment?
At times physicians and dentists recommend that a patient take antibiotics before certain dental procedures. This is called “antibiotic prophylaxis.” Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for people who have specific heart conditions. The American Heart Association has guidelines identifying people who should take antibiotics prior to dental care. According to these guidelines, antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered for people with:
Artificial heart valves.
A history of an infection of the lining of the heart or heart valves known as infective endocarditis.
A heart transplant in which a problem develops with one of the valves
Heart conditions that are present from birth, such as:
Unrepaired cyanotic congenital heart disease, including people with palliative shunts and conduit.
Defects repaired with a prosthetic material or device—during the first six months after repair.
Cases in which a heart defect has been repaired, but a residual defect remains at the site or adjacent to the site of the prosthetic patch or prosthetic device used for the repair.
The rules and regulations are constantly being updated regarding premedication after a joint replacement. In 2015, the American Dental Association published that it is no longer necessary for most dental patients with orthopedic implants to have antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infection. Based on careful review of scientific literature, the ADA found that dental procedures are not associated with prosthetic joint implant infections, and that antibiotics given before dental procedures do not prevent such infections. However, if you have been told by your orthopedic surgeon that you need premedication prior to dental treatment, we recommend that you honor their request.
If you need pre-medication, please call at least 1 day ahead of your appointment and we can call in a prescription to your local pharmacy. Please let us know if you have any known allergies, especially to any antibiotics.
When will my child get his/her first tooth and when should I bring them to their first dental visit?
Primary tooth eruption timing and sequences vary from child to child. Typically, your child will get his/her first tooth when they are 6 months old. The first tooth to erupt is normally one of the lower incisors. Once their teeth have erupted it is important you keep them clean with a child's toothbrush or simply wiping them with gauze is sufficient.
The ADA recommends bringing your child to their first dental appointment once their first tooth erupts. Once they have teeth in their mouth, they can get cavities! Prepare your child before the appointment by talking positively about the dentist and showing them videos or reading books! If your child wiggles or cries while they are here, don't worry we understand it is a new experience and will help to make them as comfortable as possible.