FAQs

What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

We follow strict guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control and OSHA. Our practices include sterilizing reusable instruments in an autoclave, then sealing them for the next use; disinfecting treatment rooms between patient visits; and using disposable products when possible. We always wear disposable gloves during exams and treatment, for your safety.


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

Our patient library is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our Services page for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don’t hesitate to call us. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.


Do you refer patients to specialists?

While we’re trained and equipped to handle most dental issues in our office, when a specialist would better serve you, we’ll refer. Some dental specialists are oral surgeons, periodontists (supporting structures), endodontists (internal tooth problems), orthodontists (for moving teeth), and pedodontists (for children). We refer to only trusted professionals with whom we have a good rapport.


My smile is missing teeth. What do you suggest I do?

You’ll need to first schedule a consultation with Dr. Madison. He can assess your oral health and discuss options for replacement teeth. In general, you can choose from crown and bridgework, partial or full dentures, or dental implants. As the most natural prosthetic, a dental implant offers the most durable, comfortable, natural-looking choice.


How does the doctor keep up to date on current techniques, technology, and materials in dentistry?

Dr. Madison and our entire team take more than the state’s requirement for continuing education each year. We also read trade journals, attend professional association meetings, and do everything we can to stay current with the latest developments in general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as dental technology. We’re passionate about our careers, so we enjoy soaking up new information on our profession, then sharing it with you!


I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?

Many people fear dental visits. We understand dental anxiety and offer a solution to help you overcome your stress. With oral sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.


My teeth are stained. Can you help?

Yes. We offer whitening solutions to brighten teeth dramatically at home or in our office. Call for an appointment today!


What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?

Well, we’d like to start by evaluating your oral health, existing smile, and discussing your idea of a spectacular smile. We may suggest porcelain veneers, replacement teeth, and replacing metal dental work with esthetic restorations. Your smile may benefit from some artistic bonding and contouring or teeth whitening. Call to schedule a cosmetic consultation, and together, we’ll determine the best road to your ideal smile.


Do you accept referrals?

Yes, and thank you for your confidence. We appreciate your referrals and promise to extend the same comprehensive, caring service to your friends, family, and coworkers that we give you every time you visit.


Will you care for my entire family?

Absolutely. We enjoy creating gorgeous, healthy smiles for patients of any age. If we find that you or your child would benefit from seeing a specialist, we’ll refer to a trusted colleague. Some children deal with dental appointments better at a pedodontist’s office, that’s what a children’s dentist is called. We also refer patients who have extensive dental problems, like advanced periodontitis or problematic root canals, to specialists for optimal care. As a general dentist office, our preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental services include treatments suitable for patients of all ages.


When do you like children to have a first dental visit?

Most children respond well to a dental visit around age three. Bring your child with you to your appointment so that he or she can become acclimated to our office. If you notice any development problems with your child’s mouth or teeth, call us to schedule a visit immediately. Otherwise, we’d like to begin teaching your children how to care for their teeth and gums when they reach three or four years of age. By age four or five, they can begin hygiene treatments and regular checkups.


What are the benefits of a digital X-ray over traditional radiographs?

Digital X-rays offer unparalleled benefits over traditional radiographs: they’re convenient, safe for the environment, provide a great opportunity for patient education, can be transferred and copied accurately, and best of all, they’re safer for our patients because they emit about 80% less radiation than traditional methods.