What is “truly comprehensive care”?
Dentistry is fairly predictable. Our goal is to have all issues and concerns known – to us and to you – and hopefully resolved prior to any emergency. We want everyone to have healthy, attractive, and stable teeth and smiles. Nobody likes a toothache or broken tooth, especially since they never happen at convenient times. Working together to prevent problems helps us out as well, because we rarely get emergency calls on the weekend!
Do you accept my insurance?
Probably. We are considered “out of network” for most policies, but they will frequently still make reimbursements according to their payment schedules. Some policies require you to go to a dentist (usually a clinic) on their list, but most allow you to choose your own dental office. We think this is an important choice. Sometimes there may be a little more out-of-pocket expenses for an out-of-network office, but we feel we are worth it. We treat you like we’d want our own family to be treated.
Do we have to pay everything at the time services are rendered?
We generally ask for payment of the expected patient portion at the time services are rendered. We will tell you the approximate amount prior to your appointment so you can know upfront, and any difference will be reimbursed or billed after insurance payment is fully processed. We file your insurance as a courtesy, and we try to get the proper reimbursement for you. We want to help you maximize your benefits.
Is Dr. Scaff a specialist in cosmetic dentistry?
Actually, there is no true “specialist” association with cosmetic dentistry. There are a number of organizations with advanced training and awards associated with cosmetics, but mostly this question depends on the emphasis the office and doctor place on cosmetics. Dr. Scaff and our team have an artistic eye for cosmetic treatments, and Dr. Scaff has been placing veneers and tooth-colored restorations for over twenty years. (If you want a silver-mercury amalgam filling, our office is not the place.) We want your teeth in great shape and looking great!
What additional training does Dr. Scaff have?
While it would be too lengthy to make a list of everything, Dr. Scaff is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. This status is earned by over 500 hours of continuing education and an exam, and Dr. Scaff achieved it over 10 years ago. He has also attended the acclaimed Pankey Institute (www.pankey.org), levels 1-5. Dr. Scaff is a member of a local study club and several other organizations that hold education as a priority.
Does your office offer payment plans?
We do. We try to work with your budget in our office, and we even have some outside long term financing options to accommodate your needs. We want you to be able to get the dentistry you need and want, and hopefully finances will not be a major barrier.
What if I feel too scared?
Dental anxiety is very common, and we have helped LOTS of people overcome their fear – even extreme fear – of dental treatment. We have several options to help you relax, from sedation “sleep” dentistry and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to IV sedation with an anesthesiologist. We’d be glad to discuss these available options with you, to determine what may work best for you to help you have good oral health.
What makes your office different?
Several things, but mostly our team. Each member was chosen first for their personality and sense of humor, and secondly for their dental knowledge and skills. We can teach dental skills, but it is hard to teach someone to be caring and compassionate. And to have fun! We also try to always run on time. That seems to be rare in some offices, but we know you’re busy and your time is valuable to us. There are other things that set us apart from other offices, and we invite you to come in and experience the difference!