Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question for Dr. Pate? Our patients ask us interesting questions every day, so we thought it would be helpful to include answers to some of the most common ones right here on our website. Want to know if it’s time for your next dental visit or if we take your insurance? You’ll find it all here! If you still have a question after reading through everything, be sure to call us and ask!

How often should I visit the dentist?

According to Dr. Pate as well as the American Dental Association, patients of all ages should visit their dentist at least twice a year (every 6 months) in order to keep their teeth healthy and prevent avoidable dental problems such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and more. Dr. Pate will help identify the recommended frequency for your hygiene visits, which might be every three months or every four months, depending on your specific situation.

When are you open?

Our office is open 7:30AM-4PM Monday-Wednesday, 7:00AM-3:45 PM Thursday, and 7:00AM-2:45 PM on Friday. With us, it’s easier than ever to schedule an appointment before you start your day!

Why do I need a dental cleaning even though I brush and floss every day?

Great question! Your teeth actually have many small surfaces your brush and floss simply aren’t designed to reach, and they can accumulate plaque that can eventually lead to cavities. A dental cleaning by one of our hygienists can target these problem areas and make sure your smile is protected year round.

I’m really nervous about visiting the dentist. Can you help?

Millions of people around the world feel a bit anxious when it comes to dental care, and that’s perfectly okay! If our friendly demeanor isn’t enough to help you feel relaxed, we can provide something called sedation dentistry, which is a collection of techniques designed specifically to reduce any discomfort or stress you might feel in the dental chair.

Do I have to get braces to straighten my teeth?

Not anymore! With ClearCorrect, your teeth can be straightened using practically invisible clear plastic aligner trays, allowing you to get the smile you’ve always wanted and preserve your daily appearance at the same time.

I don’t like how my smile looks. What can you do?

We can do all sorts of great things thanks to cosmetic dentistry. With it, we can eliminate just about any flaw you can imagine and give you a beautiful smile you’re always proud to show off. Want whiter teeth or to get rid of noticeable chips and gaps? We can do all that and more with just one or two easy appointments.

Will you accept my dental insurance?

In all likelihood, YES. Although we are not under contract with any insurance carriers, we accept dental insurance plans from a long list of providers. We’ll do everything we can to maximize your benefits every time you come to see us. If we can’t, we’ll always try to let you know in advance.