Questions we hear most

Often it is two plans: your dental plan and, for some surgery and for anesthesia, your medical plan. We check both before the visit and tell you what each is likely to pay. The fees page says how.

You get a written estimate before any treatment, with the surgery and the sedation on separate lines. Ask for it when you book.

We are not enrolled with Medicaid or CHIP. Call us and we'll tell you who to ask next.

The area is numbed first, and sedation adds comfort if you choose it. You may feel pressure and hear sounds. Raise a hand and we stop. Soreness is expected for a few days, and you get written after-care instructions.

Dr. Cartwright directs it. For IV sedation and general anesthesia, Hala Matar, a nurse anesthetist, gives it and watches only you. For nitrous oxide and oral sedation, Dr. Cartwright works with a trained team member.

For any sedation beyond nitrous oxide, yes. An adult takes you home and stays with you for the rest of the day.

If you are having sedation, we give you fasting instructions in writing, and you need to follow them. If you eat when told not to, we may have to reschedule.

Usually. A panoramic X-ray or a 3D scan shows where the roots and nerves sit. Dr. Cartwright decides, and your dentist can send the one you have.

Swelling that spreads to your face, eye or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that won't stop means an emergency room or 911. For a broken tooth or pain that won't ease, call us and we'll tell you what we can do today.

We see teenagers and adults. Younger children usually go to a pediatric dentist, and your dentist can tell you where.

Many patients come from their dentist, who sends X-rays. You can also call us yourself. We ask for your dentist's name so we can send them a report.

Call us as early as you can. A visit with sedation is planned around you, with two clinicians, so earlier notice helps us offer the time to someone else.