FAQs
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, we are always accepting new patients, both with and without insurance.
Are you “in network” on any PPO insurance plans?
Yes, we accept plans from Aetna, Ameritas, Assurant, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Delta Dental, Humana, Guardian, Met Life, Principal, United Concordia, and United Healthcare—among others.
Do you submit claims to the insurance companies?
Yes, as a courtesy to our patients, we submit all claims electronically, directly to insurance companies.
Do you accept payment plans?
Yes. We offer in-house, 0% financing plans over 12 to 18 months.
Do you see emergencies?
Yes, we see all emergency patients as soon as possible—usually the same day. After hours, you can always contact our doctors via our emergency number—847-299-4811.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
The American Dental Association recommends dental check-up exams at least twice per year—sometimes more, depending on an individual’s situation or condition. We find that most adults and children do very well with two visits a year.
How often do I need to get my teeth cleaned by the hygienist?
Patients with healthy teeth and gums can maintain excellent oral health with two cleanings a year. However, patients with periodontal disease or other conditions often need hygiene appointments three or four times a year. Your doctor and hygienist will explain what’s right for you.
At what age should I start bringing my child to a dentist?
A good relationship between children and their dentist starts with a good experience. To get started with routine care, we recommend you bring your 2 or 3-year-old with you to your next dental hygiene appointment. This way your child can meet Dr. Stiles and the hygienist, and see that mom or dad did just fine without anything scary happening. After a visit or two, the doctor or hygienist might ask your child, “Is it okay if I count your teeth sometime?” Most kids are happy to say yes, and some even ask us! For those that aren’t so eager, we might try to “count the teeth” with a simple exam before attempting a cleaning. Certainly some children may need to see a dentist even earlier. If there’s ever any doubt, or in the event of an accident, give us a call and discuss the situation with Dr. Stiles.
What is fluoride, and is it safe?
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. It’s the active ingredient in most anti-cavity toothpastes, and it’s added to drinking water in much of the United States. Many patients also benefit from additional fluoride treatments administered by their dentists. Fluoride is safe. The American Dental Association, the World Health Organization and the American Medical Association, among many other organizations, have endorsed the safe use of fluoride in water supplies.
What is a cavity, and how is it treated?
A cavity is a soft, decayed part of a tooth that, if left untreated, can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss, and the need for major dental work or tooth replacement. If you have a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth with a drill, then fill in the tooth with a filling made of either silver alloy, gold, porcelain, or a composite resin.
What is a bitewing (BWX)? How often do I need bitewings?
A bitewing is an x-ray designed to help the doctor see cavities between your teeth that are usually not visible to the naked eye. Bitewings also allow us to see bone levels around your teeth and help detect periodontal defects (gum disease). They are usually taken in sets of four, once per year.
What is a full mouth series (FMX)? How often do I need a full mouth series?
A full mouth series is a complete set of x-rays that allow the doctor and hygienist to examine all your teeth, roots, and surrounding bone and hard tissues in detail. We can identify cavities, abscesses, periodontal disease, and other pathologies, and we gain a greater ability to monitor your overall dental condition over time. Without these important x-rays, many problems aren’t visible to the naked eye and can go unnoticed. A full mouth series is usually taken every three years.
What is pre-medication, and when is it necessary?
Sometimes patients need to take a dose of antibiotics before having dental treatment when they have a history of certain heart conditions, surgeries, or prosthetic joint replacements. Ask your physician if you require pre-medication.
What are the signs of periodontal disease? How is it treated?
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is especially dangerous, because you can have it for years without any symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they include bleeding of the gums when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth—just to name a few. Gum disease can be treated with a professional cleaning or, in some cases, with a deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure done under a local anesthetic. Some advanced cases can only be treated with surgery.
What causes dry mouth? Is it serious?
If you find yourself with a constant dry mouth, you should definitely see a dentist—it might be caused by systemic medical conditions, medications, or a combination of both. Inadequate saliva is hard on your teeth and gums and contributes to cavities and gum disease. Whatever the reason, it is very important that you take the necessary steps to maintain your oral health with a dentist and hygienist.