Does Dr. Thompson keep up-to-date with infection control?
All of our infection control procedures, devices,
PPE, and disinfectants are up to date and in accord with CDC and OSHA
guidelines, as well as recommendations by the American Dental Association and
Massachusetts state requirements. This
has been the case for over thirty years in the office and has recently been
augmented due to concerns about coronavirus.
See our page on sterilization for more.
What are the office hours?
Our office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:30 AM-5:00 PM and
Friday 8:30 AM -2:30 PM from October 1 until May 31. During the summer
(June 1 through September 30) we are open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM
until 2:00 PM. In order to make things as fair as possible for everyone
involved, we require that all scheduling changes and cancellations be made
during those times when the staff and I are actually in the office.
How often should I see a dental office for checkups?
There is no set time for the frequency of dental checkups. The correct time
between cleanings for a particular patient needs to be determined by the dentist
and his staff based upon that patient's individual condition. Although a
majority of patients are seen twice a year, many patients are seen three or
four times annually due to their circumstances. I base my recall frequency
for any patient upon the needs of that particular individual.
When should I see a dentist immediately?
You should see a dentist as soon as possible when:
1. You have a trauma to
your mouth resulting in a broken tooth or filling.
2. You have constant
pain in a tooth or your jaws.
3. You have pain caused
by heat that lasts more than a few seconds.
4. You have pain caused
by simple chewing.
5. You have swelling in
the mouth or facial area.
What can be done about cold sensitivity?
Cold sensitivity, particularly at the gumlines of
the teeth, is very common. When not associated with actual decay or a broken
tooth or filling, it can often be controlled with an over-the-counter
sensitivity toothpaste. Most patients get relief from the use of these
products over the course of a few weeks.
Does Dr. Thompson use "gas" or general
anesthetics?
I use local anesthetics only, no "gas" or general anesthetics. This
makes it much easier to communicate with patients during treatment. I
will prescribe oral medication to control anxiety in patients who may need
it.
Does Dr. Thompson bleach teeth?
Yes. I have been bleaching teeth effectively for over thirty years
using a tray technique. This is a very effective and, more importantly,
safe way of brightening your teeth.
Are any of the metals used in fillings or crowns a risk to
my health?
To date, despite exhaustive research to try to prove otherwise, there is no
valid scientific evidence that metal alloys used in restoring teeth pose any
health risk. In
fact, alloy restorations have been used literally for centuries with great
success. However, today alternative tooth-colored materials exist which
can be used to restore teeth without silver alloy or cast gold. Patients may
opt to choose these techniques after being informed of their cost and
limitations.
Does Dr. Thompson refer to specialists?
Although I am a general practice dentist and perform the bulk of the work
required by my patients in my practice there are times when patients will
require the services of a specialist dentist. At that time I will make the
appropriate referral.
Does Dr. Thompson do implant dentistry?
Yes, the
restorative part of implants. The surgical phase of the implants is performed
by a dentist with whom I work closely, someone who is specialized in this
type of surgery, such as a periodontist (gum specialist) or an oral surgeon.
I then place the "teeth" (usually some type of crown, bridge or
denture) onto the implant.
What is Dr. Thompson's policy regarding broken
appointments?
Unless they have a legitimate reason for doing so, patients who fail to keep
an appointment with less than twenty-four hours notice
will be charged a broken appointment fee.
Can I pay for my services by credit card?
Yes, by MasterCard or Visa.
What is Dr. Thompson's policy regarding dental
insurance?
My office accepts most regular insurance plans, including Blue Cross/ Blue
Shield Dental and Delta Dental. The office fills out and submits insurance
forms as a courtesy to the patient. Treatment
is based on patient need, not insurance coverage. For example, a
patient may need to have a check-up more often than twice a year even though
their plan only covers two. Ultimately the patient, not the insurance
company, is responsible for charges made for services rendered.
I do not participate in
any managed care, PPO, or capitation plans. That does not mean you
cannot see me if you have one of those plans. Many of my patients have
these types of plans and can see me as an out-of-network dentist.
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