Frequently Asked Questions
Please read through our dental care FAQs to find out more about family and cosmetic dentistry at Linh Bauer, DDS.
Are you taking new patients?
Yes, absolutely.
What are your office hours?
Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am- 5:00 pm. We do offer convenient lunch time appointments.
What information do I need to have to schedule my appointment?
Please have your contact information, insurance information, and inform us of how long it has been since your last dental appointment. If your last set of x-rays are recent (under one year), please request them to be sent to us from your previous dental office.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We accept most PPO and Premier plans. We do not accept Medicare, HMO or DPO plans. If you are unsure what your plan is, we can check for you (will require vital personal information such as date of birth and social security number).
What happens at my first appointment and how long will it take?
For a new patient, we take necessary digital x-rays and perform an exam and cleaning (if indicated). Dr. Bauer will discuss any treatment you may need and create a treatment plan. Initial appointments can take between 1-1.5 hours.
How does your billing work?
We submit your insurance billing for you. The patient pays their portion that is not covered by insurance. The patient is ultimately responsible for the entire fee if insurance does not cover such benefit. If you do not have insurance, we accept cash, check or credit card at the time service is rendered. We also offer CareCredit, which is an interest free healthcare credit card that you can apply for at our office.
Why are x-rays needed?
Radiographs allow the dentist to see what the naked eye cannot – decay in between teeth, the extent of decay, roots, tartar, bone loss, impacted teeth, trauma or abnormalities not clinically visible. They also allow us to monitor changes over a period of time.
Are x-rays safe?
Yes. Our office uses digital x-rays, which utilize much lower exposure levels than traditional film. We are able to limit the area exposed by focusing the size of the x-ray beam and cover the patient with a leaded apron. Digital x-rays can be viewed immediately on the computer screen.
Do you offer payment plans for those without insurance?
We do offer CareCredit–a healthcare credit card. You can apply in our office in just a few minutes. You can avoid paying interest by paying off the amount within the promotional period. Find out more by visiting www.carecredit.com or by giving us a call.
Do you do “in office teeth whitening”?
No, we do not. Dr. Bauer prefers the whitening tray method due to the safety and cost-effectiveness of the procedure. Teeth whitening is never a one time procedure and requires touch ups. We take impressions of your teeth and create custom fitted trays for you- making future touch-ups inexpensive and convenient.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an inflammatory disease that affects the tissues and bone that support teeth. When someone has periodontal disease, the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. Periodontal disease can lead to the progressive loss of the bone around the teeth, and if left untreated, can lead to the loosening and subsequent loss of teeth. Treating periodontal disease in the early stages can help prevent tooth loss. There may be a link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease (heart disease and stroke). High stress may also be linked to periodontal disease. The key is treatment and prevention of gum disease by regular visits to the dentist to remove plaque and tartar.
What kind of toothbrush should I be using?
Soft Bristles: We recommend (along with the ADA) using a toothbrush with soft bristles. This type of toothbrush has flexible bristles and is gentle on the enamel and soft gum tissue. When you use a toothbrush with soft, flexible bristles, you are able to reach the little nooks and crannies easier. It is less abrasive and will help keep the integrity of the soft gum tissue. Many patients have the habit of “brushing too hard” which can erode enamel which results in tooth sensitivity. Use the soft toothbrush or electric toothbrush with light pressure for a full two minutes in the morning and evening.
A toothbrush that has an ADA seal is also important. According to the ADA, the seal assures you that the product has been evaluated by an independent body of scientific experts, the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs, for safety and effectiveness according to objective guidelines. Look for the ADA box statement on the product label. It tells you what claims the ADA has reviewed and accepted. Products with the prestigious ADA Seal must say what they do and do what they say.
Does Dr. Bauer see children?
Our office does treat children however we do not perform sedation. If a child under 5 has cavities, Dr. Bauer will refer to a pediatric specialist who can better treat the younger child.
Do you use sedation on adults?
No, our office does not offer Nitrous Oxide or Conscious/General Sedation. We will however, prescribe Valium to an adult patient if indicated.
How often do I need to see a dentist?
Cleaning recalls can vary between three and six months depending on the dentist’s recommendation and the patient’s risk of periodontal (gum) disease. Check-up x-rays (bitewings) should be taken once a year to check for cavities in between the teeth that cannot be seen by visual inspection.
Does Dr. Bauer clean my teeth or do you have a dental hygienist?
Our highly skilled and friendly hygienists are here to provide you with a thorough and gentle cleaning. Dr. Bauer examines each patient after the hygienist completes the cleaning. Dr. Bauer treats patients’ restorative needs (fillings, etc,) but on occasion, she does clean patients’ teeth if that better accommodates the schedule.
Does Dr. Bauer do cosmetic dentistry?
Yes. Dr. Bauer uses tooth colored restorations (composite or porcelain) to enhance a patient’s smile. For patients that have cosmetic inquiries, Dr. Bauer can discuss all the options for the desired treatment. The cosmetic consultation lasts about 30 minutes and may require x-rays and teeth models if needed.
Does Dr. Bauer offer Invisalign?
Yes, Dr. Bauer is a certified Invisalign treatment provider. Invisalign straightens teeth by using clear trays (aligners) that gently move the teeth into the desired position. Please schedule a complimentary consultation to determine if you are a candidate for Invisalign.
