FAQs

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[su_spoiler title=”Are you accepting new patients and do you accept referrals?”]Absolutely! We always make room for new patients in our practice and truly consider it a compliment when a patient has the confidence in our office to recommend a friend or a family member to us. Please calls us at 425-298-6684 to make an appointment. We welcome patients from Redmond, Bellevue, Kirkland, Woodinville, Duvall, Carnation and surrounding areas.[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”Will you deal directly with my dental insurance?”]Yes. Avondale Smiles accepts most dental insurance programs. As a courtesy to our patients, we will file your insurance claims for each visit. You are responsible for covering any costs not covered by your dental insurance at the time of your visit. We do accept both Visa and Mastercard for your convenience. You should be aware that different insurance companies and dental plans vary greatly in the types of available coverage. If you have any questions regarding your dental coverage, we are more than happy to help clarify any details.[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”What makes you different than any other dental office I can visit?”]We like to consider ourselves a “boutique” style practice. When you visit our office you will find that we are not one of those rushed, impersonal, assembly-line style practices you’ve visited. Dr. Agarwal will take the time needed with each patient to ensure quality treatment and to involve you in making decisions about your oral health and well-being. We always take the time to explain in detail each of your treatment options so that you can make an informed decision. At Avondale Smiles, our goal is to make you feel completely comfortable and at home in our practice.
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[su_spoiler title=”Another dentist said I need a lot of treatment, but I’m not sure. Should I get a second opinion?”]Dentistry is an art as well as a science and there are often more ways than one to solve a particular problem. That doesn’t mean that the first opinion is wrong, just that there may be a different approach that would benefit you. If you would like, we can examine your unique situation and will happily provide our own independent assessment and recommendations. Dr. Agarwal believes in letting the patient make an informed decision. She will make sure you understand all the available options and the recommended option; the ultimate decision will be up to you.[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”Do you take same day appointments?”]Yes. We will always make room for your emergency needs and attempt to work with your schedule to find an appointment time that is convenient for you. Please call us at 425-298-6684 to make an appointment to see Dr. Aditi Agarwal.
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[su_spoiler title=”How often should I visit the dentist?”]For most people, twice a year is usually sufficient; however, only you, your dentist and your hygienist can determine how often is actually necessary. Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health. Regular checkups are a MUST in order to maintain a healthy, happy smile![/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”What are the signs of gum disease?”]

• red, swollen or tender gums
• gums that bleed when you brush
• gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• bad breath that does not go away
• pus between your teeth and gums
• loose teeth
• a change in your bite (the way you teeth come together)
• a change in the fit of partial dentures

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[su_spoiler title=”Is gum disease preventable?”]You can help prevent periodontal (gum) disease by:

• Brushing your teeth really well twice a day (with a toothbrush in good condition).
• Cleaning between your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner.
• Eating a balanced diet that limits between meal snacks and visiting your dentist regularly.

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[su_spoiler title=”Why are x-rays taken?”]X-rays are extremely useful and important as a diagnostic tool and may reveal the following information:

• position of your teeth
• impacted teeth
• presence and extent of dental decay
• any bone damage
• an abscessed tooth
• jaw fracture
• any malocclusion of teeth
• other abnormalities of the jaw bone or teeth

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[su_spoiler title=”What is nitrous oxide sedation?”]Nitrous Oxide (N2O) or laughing gas, is colorless, sweet-smelling, and nonirritating and when administered will create a state of mild sedation. This technique is advantageous for those patients that experience mild anxiety and fear when visiting the dentist. This technique’s use is dependent upon the level of anxiety of the patient.
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[su_spoiler title=”What is oral sedation?”]If you do not brush and floss daily, particles of food will remain in your mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, around the gums or on your tongue can rot, leaving an extremely unpleasant odor. Dentures, not cleaned properly, can also contain odor-causing bacteria and food particles.[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”How does food cause tooth decay?”]When you eat, food passes through your mouth where it encounters germs or bacteria that live in your mouth. This union of food, germs and bacteria create a sticky film of bacteria called plaque.

Bacteria loves sugars found in many foods, and will use the sugar to produce acids that are able to destroy the hard surface (enamel) of the tooth. If this sticky substance is not removed from your teeth, tooth decay will eventually occur.[/su_spoiler]

[su_spoiler title=”What causes bad breath?”]If you do not brush and floss daily, particles of food will remain in your mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, around the gums or on your tongue can rot, leaving an extremely unpleasant odor. Dentures, not cleaned properly, can also contain odor-causing bacteria and food particles.
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[su_spoiler title=”What is fluoride?”]Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that can be used to strengthen your child¹s teeth and prevent tooth decay. There are two primary ways that fluoride can be beneficial to your oral health. Systemic: This type of fluoride is ingested through drinking fluoridated water or fluoride supplements prescribed by your pediatric dentist or physician. In the correct amounts, fluoride will make developing teeth stronger by incorporating itself into the tooth enamel. Too much systemic fluoride may cause fluorosis, a condition which causes white or yellow/brown spots on the teeth. Topical: This type of fluoride is applied to the erupted teeth. It can be found in most toothpastes, many rinses or prescribed gels. Topical fluoride strengthens erupted teeth.
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