Frequently Asked Questions

How can you make and place a custom crown in just one visit?

With modern dentistry, anything's possible. Okay, not anything. But one-visit crowns are a reality that can make your life a little bit easier. We use CEREC technology to create 3D images of dentition, then with and in-office computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), we mill a custom, permanent, lifelike crown. Learn more about CEREC in our patient library, then call to experience this amazing innovation first hand!

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My smile is riddled with dark fillings and metal crowns. Can I get an all-white smile back?

Absolutely. Dr. Beal and Dr. Julian work with fine dental materials that mimic nature's own. For large fillings and crowns, we often use CEREC crowns, inlays, and onlays as esthetic replacements. However, small fillings may be repaired with composite resin. We can also order custom restorations from a trusted dental lab. Schedule a comprehensive dental exam so that we can assess your situation and discuss your goals. Then, we'll present the best options to meet your expectations and return the all-white smile of your youth!

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Why do you use dental lasers? Do they hurt?

Dental lasers offer precision and reduced healing time for gum procedures. For a patient with a "gummy smile," we may use our soft tissue dental laser to remove excess gums and reveal the bigger, brighter smile that was hidden beneath. The patient will not need sutures, will experience less bleeding that with traditional gum surgery, and is likely to heal much faster. We also use our soft tissue laser for periodontal surgery to remove disease and damaged gum tissue, which promotes growth of healthy tissue. Learn more about dental lasers in our patient library.

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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health problems, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create a host of problems and significant oral damage, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life! Learn more about gum disease in our patient library.

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How does gum disease affect the body?

It hides in your mouth, destroying gum tissue and teeth, and it can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and pregnancy complications. Don’t think it’s your problem? Conservative estimates report that up to 80 percent of the population unknowingly has gum disease in some form. Learn more…

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What do you do to maintain a safe and sterilized environment?

Your safety is important to us, so we sterilize our reusable instruments in an autoclave and use disposable products as much as possible. Each operatory is cleaned thoroughly between patient visits. We adhere to guidelines set by the CDC and OSHA and perform weekly tests on our sterilization equipment.

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What are my options to replace missing teeth?

We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and implant restorations to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services in our patient library, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, the team at North Galloway Dental can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.

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What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?

When compared to traditional radiography, digital X-rays emit 80-percent less radiation. Detailed images are immediately available for view on a chairside monitor in the operatory. We can transfer digital X-rays and photographs quickly, via the Internet, to insurance companies and specialists, as well. As an added benefit, digital X-rays require no hazardous developing chemicals, so they're earth friendly! Learn more about digital X-rays in our patient library.

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Do you file dental insurance?

We will gladly file your insurance claim as an out-of-network provider. Please prepare to pay your co-pay or deductible when you visit. We accept assignment of benefits, which means that your insurance provider can reimburse us directly for their portion of your balance. If your carrier does not reimburse us the expected amount, we will adjust your balance accordingly. For answers to your questions about dental insurance, please call us.

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Does my insurance cover that?

Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50 percent or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. Generally speaking, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. North Galloway Dental accepts CareCredit financing to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of his patients. If you have questions, give us a call. We'll be happy to tell you what your insurance will cover.

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What payment methods do you accept, and what are your financing options?

For your convenience, we accept payment by cash, check, credit card, or through CareCredit, a trusted third-party institution that specializes in patient financing.  

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