Boston Dentist FAQ

Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we accept dozens of dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, Blue Cross, Blue Shield,
Met Life, and Aetna. In addition, because we have so many patients who work for Boston area
companies, we have hundreds of Employer Benefit Plans in our computer system. In general we
do not accept PPO plans. Devonshire Dental Associates will submit your insurance claims for you.
Please bring your Dental Insurance card with you to your visits.

Do you have lunchtime appointments?
Yes, both our Hygienists and Dentists see patients through the normal lunch hour. If you need a
lunchtime appointment, please contact our Office Manager.

Do you treat Children?
No, however we often see teenagers when they are seniors in high school. It is prudent to
complete needed dental work before heading off to college. Future appointments can be
scheduled when the student is home on break.

What are your payment policies?
Co-payments (the uninsured portion of your bill) are due at the time of treatment. We do not offer
financing or payment plans. Deposits for lab work on crowns and other restorative items are
generally 50% at the time dental impressions are made. To download policies, click here . To
make an online payment, click here.

What is your cancellation policy?
Like most medical offices, we require 24 hours notice for cancellations. Cancellations within the
24 hour period are charged for. We do not "overbook" appointments so our doctors reserve time
just for you.

What are your hours?
Hygiene appointments are available M-F 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM and last one hour. Appointments with
dentists are generally available from M-F 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM . We do not have Saturday
appointments.

What are your privacy policies?
We keep patient information strictly confidential, and as such comply with HIPPA guidelines. For
your convenience we keep a printed copy of our privacy policies in our patient waiting room.

What if I have a fear of going to the dentist?
It is quite common for patients to have some apprehension, particularly if they have not been to a
dentist in a while. There is really very little reason to be nervous. Your dentist will fully explain
your treatment. With short term anesthetics, your dental work should be pain free.

If I am feeling pain, is it too late for the tooth to be saved?
While the answer to this question varies with the problem, it is quite common that we can save
the tooth. In some cases a root canal may be needed (which also saves the tooth structure).
Some cases such as cracked teeth or impacted wisdom teeth, the tooth may have to be
extracted. If you are feeling pain you should be examined by the dentist immediately. Please
discuss this with our office manager so that we can schedule you as soon as possible.

Am I a candidate for a Dental Makeover?
Devonshire Dental Associates performs Dental Makeovers not only to enhance your appearance
but also to improve your self-confidence. If you are self-conscious about your smile, if you tend to
cover your mouth while talking, or if you tend to avoid having your photo taken, you may be a
candidate for a makeover. Similarly, if you are uncomfortable about gaps between your front
teeth, or if you dislike the color of your teeth, you should schedule a free Cosmetic Consultation.
Your dentist may discuss with you Teeth Whitening, Bonding, Veneers, or other cosmetic
procedures to fulfill your needs.

I think I am grinding my teeth at night. Is there a treatment for this?
Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is a common but serious condition. Teeth grinding quite often
occurs during sleep. It can cause teeth to be dramatically worn down, cracked, or have
sensitivity. It can affect your ability to chew, and can even affect your appearance if not corrected.
If untreated, bruxism can lead to crowns, root canals, bridges, implants, and even full dentures.
Grinding during sleep can often be corrected with a simple "night guard" (shown left) that protects
your teeth surfaces. It is important to see your dentist if you are concerned about teeth grinding.

What is Scaling and Root Plaining?
Scaling and Root Planing is a common procedure that is effective in preventing gum disease. It
is used for patients with teeth roots that exhibit mineral deposits (tartar), infection, or gums that
have pulled away from teeth. The Hygienist will clean the root surfaces smooth, removing any
deposits. Generally your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic so that the procedure will be
painless. Often an ultrasonic tooth cleaning device will be used so that scraping is minimized.
Scaling a Root Planing generally takes more than one dental visit.

What is the big deal about flossing?
Flossing has many advantages for your dental health. It should be considered equally important
to brushing your teeth. Generally we recommend that patients floss at least once per day.
Flossing can prevent tooth decay and gum disease by cleaning areas that toothbrush bristles
cannot reach. By keeping teeth cleaner and free of staining foods, it also keeps them whiter. By
keeping gums and spaces between teeth free of bacteria, flossing can also prevent bad breath.
And finally, because it helps prevent decay, flossing can keep your overall dental costs low.

How can crooked teeth be straightened?
In addition to orthodonture (braces), there are Cosmetic Dentistry procedures that may help
straighten teeth. Dental Bonding is a simple, cost effective procedure that can alter tooth shape
with minimal tooth loss. Dental Veneers are commonly used on front teeth to dramatically
improve appearance. Finally, we offer Invisalign "invisible braces" as well. Ask your dentist for
details.

Do you have an environmentally friendly office
Yes. We do not store any chemical toners or fixers typically associated with conventional
radiography systems. We do not store or use mercury based amalgam materials. Our water is
filtered as it enters our office. Even the air is filtered to help remove dust and allergens. Medical
waste is properly disposed of by a third party in compliance with OSHA standards.

Have other questions?
Please feel free to send us questions using our Contact Form.