FAQs
Common Dental Questions
What is an FAGD?
What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
I have not been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?
What is a cosmetic dentist?
How can I improve my smile?
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
I have old, dark fillings. Is there any hope for my smile?
I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
Will I be charged if I miss an appointment?
Does the dentist see emergency cases?
My spouse snores at night. Can you help?
What is an FAGD?
FAGD stands for Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. Only seven percent of general dentists nationwide have received this prestigious designation. To earn his FAGD, Dr. Clark took over 500 hours of continued education from an approved provider and passed the fellowship exam. Because he is dedicated to providing our patients with the latest and greatest technologies and procedures, Dr. Clark dedicates much time and effort to staying current with the fast-changing world of dentistry.
What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
When compared to traditional radiography, digital X-rays emit 80-percent less radiation. Detailed images are immediately available for view on a chairside monitor in the operatory. We can transfer digital X-rays and photographs quickly via the Internet to insurance companies and specialists, as well. Digital X-rays require no hazardous developing chemicals, so they're earth friendly!
I have not been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?
First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize dental healthcare. Your mouth is a big part of your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem. We will not judge you, but help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, then scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.
What is a cosmetic dentist?
Cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, so any general dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist. To choose a good cosmetic dentist, review the doctor’s before-and-after photos of actual cases, ask about his or her postgraduate education in cosmetic dentistry, and make sure that you feel confident and comfortable in the office.
How can I improve my smile?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with unnecessary smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Lumineers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging for smile previews, as well.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
The ADA recommends dentist-supervised teeth whitening for superior results. Dr. Clark will be able to assess your soft-tissues and tooth enamel to determine the best type of whitening in your unique situation. He may recommend in-office bleaching with Zoom! or take-home teeth whitening. Our professional-strength whitening solution contains hydrogen peroxide, which has been proven safe and effective in clinical studies, and fluoride, which will help strengthen your tooth enamel. Call today and reserve your appointment and learn which option is right for you.
What is the difference between veneers and Lumineers?
Lumineers are actually a brand of veneers that requires minimal or no tooth preparation prior to placement. Some patients prefer Lumineers because of the quick application and reduced risk for sensitivity. However, others prefer traditional veneers because of their completely customized design.
I have old, dark fillings. Is there any hope for my smile?
Dark fillings and metal crowns can be replaced with strong, aesthetic solutions. Dr. Clark has placed composite resin fillings for years, and we also offer porcelain crowns.
I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
Chronic headaches may be a symptom of a misaligned bite, bruxism (grinding), or TMJ disorder. Dr. Clark will carefully examine your occlusion (bite), jaw, head, and neck to determine the underlying causes of your pain. Oftentimes, we can correct the problem with a custom nightguard. Call our office if you have more questions about headache relief with non-surgical therapies.
Will I be charged if I miss an appointment?
To keep the cost of dental services economical, our office must maintain a solid calendar of appointments. When a patient doesn’t show up for a scheduled visit, we still have to carry the overhead for that hour. We understand that emergencies arise, and we are sensitive to these special situations. However, if you miss an appointment without letting us know ahead of time, we reserve the right to bill you a nominal fee to compensate. To avoid a missed appointment fee, simply call us 24 hours in advance so that we can fill your appointment time with a patient who needs to see us quickly. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
Does the dentist see emergency cases?
Yes. We will see emergency cases during regular business hours, and we will do our best to provide services the same day. After hours, we offer a phone number on the answering machine, so patients of record can contact Dr. Clark.
My spouse snores at night. Can you help?
Snoring often results from blocked airways. If this is the case, then Dr. Clark can design a custom snoreguard, which allows unobstructed airflow throughout the night. Custom snoreguards are thin and flexible, and most patients have little trouble adjusting to wearing the appliance at night. Call our office to reserve your appointment and learn if a snoreguard is right for you.
An Appointment You Won’t Want to Miss!
Dr. Jeffrey D. Clark’s dental office is convenient to residents of Scottsdale, Phoenix, Cave Creek, Carefree, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and beyond. Call us today to reserve your FREE consultation and discover the life-changing benefits of a confident, healthy smile.