Your Questions

How does the doctor keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Dr. Novak subscribes to the latest industry journals to stay current with research and developments in dentistry. He also takes time regularly to attend continuing education classes and makes sure each staff member does, too. Dr. Novak also belongs to three local study groups. As individuals and as a team, we believe it is our responsibility to stay current on the latest developments.

How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?

Healthy adults usually benefit from professional cleanings and checkups every six months. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing them every day will go a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy, but it is wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar, which requires professional cleaning to avoid gum disease.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Our office accepts most major insurance plans and will file your claims for you. We also are knowledgeable about the latest coverage, and will be happy to discuss your insurance with you before your treatment.

What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

If you have a true dental emergency, please call our office voice mail and let us know what has happened. We will return your call as soon as possible, give you information over the phone, and determine if you need to be seen immediately.

What different payment options do you offer? We accept cash, personal checks and Visa, MasterCard and Discover. We also offer financing through Citihealth and CareCredit, which have a number of different financing plans, including a 12-month interest-free plan. If you have questions about payment or financing, please talk with our friendly, knowledgeable office staff.

How can I safely whiten my teeth?

A number of new procedures can make your smile whiter and brighter.. Dr. Novak can help you determine the potential for whitening your teeth, based on their current color and the causes of any discoloration. Once you have decided on the most appropriate method for you, you will most likely spend anywhere from two to four weeks undergoing simple treatments that will give you the white smile you’ve always wanted.

What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit? When you become one of our patients, we’ll do our best to provide you with dental care in the easiest, most convenient way for you. Our office is easy to find and easy to get to, and we’ll listen to what you want and need. Also, we think of you as a person, not as just another set of teeth to fix and clean. In short, our goal is to make you happy by providing you and your family with high-quality dental care in a clean, comfortable, convenient environment.

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

Gums that bleed after brushing can be caused by a number of things and likely require attention. Bleeding gums can be caused by using improper, rough scrubbing instead of gentle circular motions when you brush; using a hard bristled toothbrush instead of a soft one; plaque or tartar buildup below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gum disease. If you brush and floss correctly and your gums continue to bleed, please call us for an appointment to evaluate the problem.

I really do not like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?

We understand that many patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. That’s why we offer oral sedation, where a simple pill helps you relax while your dental work is being done. Oral sedation is so effective it allows us to complete a lot of work or a complex procedure while you are totally relaxed. Often patients are so relaxed they don’t remember the procedure, so if you do not like visiting the dentist, ask about oral sedation as a treatment option.