Your Questions
Answers to Common Questions about Perfect Smile Dental Spa
- I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?
- What is a cosmetic dentist?
- Are there differences between over-the-counter teeth whiteners and professional teeth whiteners?
- What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
- How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
- Will you see my kids and my grandparents?
- Why do some dentists do extractions and root canals, while others refer patients to specialists?
- What makes Perfect Smile Dental Spa different from other dental practices I can visit?
- Is sedation safe?
- Do you accept dental insurance?
- What are your payment options?
Q) I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?
A) Many people fear dental visits because of negative past experiences or control issues. We understand dental anxiety and offer several solutions to help you overcome your stress. With sedation dentistry and spa amenities, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.
Q) What is a cosmetic dentist?
A) Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, so any general dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To choose a good cosmetic dentist, review the doctor’s before-and-after photos of actual cases, ask about his or her postgraduate education in cosmetic dentistry, and make sure that you feel confident and comfortable in the office.
Q) Are there differences between over-the-counter teeth whiteners and professional teeth whiteners?
A) Over-the-counter whiteners are not as efficient as professional-grade treatments. The whitening kits you buy at the drugstore are not customized to fit the shape of your teeth, making them messy and ineffective. In addition, they typically only whiten two to three shades. With professional teeth whitening you have more options. You can visit our office and receive a one-hour whitening treatment that will leave your teeth up to 10 shades whiter. We also have home teeth whitening kits that are custom designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. Each night for a week or two you’ll need to apply our professional-grade whitening gel to the trays, and then wear them at night. Within just a few days you’ll notice a difference, and by the time treatment is complete, you will smile with confidence. Take-home trays can also touch up and maintain in-office whitening.
Q) What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
A) Lumineers are actually a brand of veneers that require minimal or no tooth preparation prior to placement. Some patients prefer Lumineers because of the quick application and reduced risk for sensitivity. However, others prefer traditional veneers because of their completely customized design.
Q) How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
A) Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign clear braces.
Q) Will you see my kids and my grandparents?
A) Yes! We love families and see many of them. Our services are diverse, so we offer dentures for our older patients, as well as sealants for our youngest patients. Call to schedule comprehensive initial exams for everyone in your family – because their smiles are invaluable family assets!
Q) Why do some dentists do extractions and root canals, while others refer patients to specialists?
A) Every general dentist receives a similar education in dental school. However, general dentists can choose which continuing education courses to take each year. Some dentists learn advanced techniques for root canals, dental implants and laser dentistry, while others focus on administration and practice management. In addition, each dentist has his or her area of expertise. Some prefer to send root canal patients to endodontists for better care, while others enjoy root canals and have invested in the tools and training to perform them regularly.
Q) What makes Perfect Smile Dental Spa different from other dental practices I can visit?
A) Perfect Smile Dental Spa combines comprehensive, state-of-the-art dentistry with comfort amenities that promote total-body wellness. At Perfect Smile Dental Spa, you can relax with a soothing massage, aromatherapy or choose from our sedation methods. Our goal is for you to enjoy coming to see us, so we can help you maintain a healthy smile for a long life.
Q) Is sedation safe?
A) Sedation dentistry under the supervision of a trained professional is absolutely safe. Dr. Dotson or Dr. DeMars will carefully examine your medical history and thoroughly explain your sedation options so that you will fully understand what is expected of you before the procedure. While you are under sedation, we closely monitor blood pressure, breathing and heart rate to ensure your safety at all times. If you have any questions about sedation dentistry, don’t hesitate to call Perfect Smile Dental Spa. Our friendly, professional staff will be happy to help.
Q) Do you accept dental insurance?
A) Yes. We accept all dental insurance plans that give you the freedom to choose your own dentist. We are also in-network with the popular Delta Dental Premier plan. Regardless of your plan, we will gladly file your dental claims and help you maximize your benefits. As a courtesy, our insurance specialists can check your benefits before treatment begins and give you an estimate of your patient responsibility. Call one of our insurance specialists for a free benefits analysis.
Q) What are your payment options?
A) For your convenience, we accept cash, check and major credit cards. Patients who qualify can also take advantage of no-interest or low-interest financing through CareCredit. Additionally, 5% discounts are available for senior citizens and for prepaid accounts. Our goal is to make dentistry easy and affordable to all of our patients. If you are concerned about financing, let us know. We will do everything we can so that you can get the care you need for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
We change lives, one smile at a time.
If you’re ready to get quality dental care for the mind, body and smile, call Perfect Smile Dental Spa or schedule an appointment online. Dr. Dotson and Dr. DeMars deliver stunning results in a soothing, spa-like atmosphere for residents of Chicago, the North Shore of Chicago, the Northwest and Southwest suburbs of Chicago and the surrounding areas.