Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the questions we get asked the most. If you need more information about anything you read below, or if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. We’re here to help in any way we can.

How do the doctors keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?
How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
Do you accept referrals?
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
What different payment options do you provide?
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?
I do not like drills. Are there any other options?
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials…where can I learn more about these procedures?
What is Smile Analysis?

How do the doctors keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Drs. Samuel and Videgain are always well versed in current topics and developments in dentistry. Both have attended continuing education courses taught by world-renowned speakers in the field of cosmetic dentistry and implantology. Joining them on the quest for the most up-to-date technology, Dr. Yancey (their periodontal surgeon) also attends frequent seminars relating to her expertise. Recognizing how important education is, all three doctors hold teaching positions at USC or UCLA to ensure that they remain at the forefront of their profession.

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

It is recommended that most patients visit the office every 6 months for a routine dental check-up and cleaning. Brushing and flossing twice a day is often all you need to maintain a healthy mouth between visits to our office. However, if you experience discomfort, bleeding of the gums, or any unusual symptoms, immediate attention is advised. Patients with a history of periodontal disease are encouraged to visit the office at shorter intervals to prevent relapse and ensure a successful prognosis, especially with the growing body of evidence linking gum disease to other serious conditions such as heart disease.

Do you accept referrals?

Absolutely. We are always pleased to accept referrals from family and friends as well as other dental offices. Your recommendation is our favorite compliment!

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

Don’t panic! Simply dial the office number and the outgoing message will give you instructions. One of the doctors is always on call, seven days a week. Your call will be returned and the emergency assessed to determine the best course of action.

What different payment options do you provide?

We accept cash, personal checks, and all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Our office staff can verify insurance benefits, provide options and estimates for potential treatment, and assist in creating a payment plan that works for you.

What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

Our entire staff is well trained in state-of-the-art sterilization techniques designed to ensure your safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent passing germs, and includes a specialized sterilization center that eliminates germ exposure. In addition to protecting your health, we also believe in protecting your privacy. Our office strictly adheres to all HIPPA guidelines and under no circumstances will share unauthorized information.

What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?

Our practice size promotes a caring, intimate environment, unlike many larger clinic settings. When you become a patient in our practice, you become a member of our extended family. We take the necessary time to get to know you, understand your history, and evaluate the best options for your particular dental needs. We also value your time and pride ourselves on keeping to our schedule so you can keep to yours.

I do not like drills. Are there any other options?

Fortunately for patients like you, there is a relatively new filling preparation technique known as “air abrasion.” This process removes decay and prepares teeth for fillings. This technique works by sending pressurized aluminum oxide particles into the affected area to remove decay, thus eliminating the need for a drill. Air abrasion is quiet, quick, relatively painless, and avoids sacrificing tooth structure.

Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials…where can I learn more about these procedures?

Our Web site is designed to help you learn all you need to about the various restorative and cosmetic techniques we offer. Simply click on the Patient Library link in the margin, then select your article topic from the listing provided. However, if you desire even more information about a larger variety of topics, visit the American Dental Association site.

What is Smile Analysis?

A Smile Analysis determines the proper aesthetic treatment as it relates to proportion, lip line, and facial characteristics. We arrive at your ideal smile by way of careful study models of teeth, photographic analysis, and by understanding your desires and expectations. We know that dentistry can change your life and we are dedicated to helping bring out the best smile in you.