What will happen at my first visit?
Your first visit to our office is approximately one hour long. During that time, you will meet with our dentist. We will take necessary x-rays, and the dentist will do a comprehensive exam including an oral cancer screening. Any treatment needed will be noted and discussed, and a thorough treatment plan will be created. Our office manager will meet with you and explain the costs of the treatment plan, the coordination of your dental insurance benefits, and payment options. You may then schedule any necessary appointments.

Don’t I get my cleaning done at my first appointment?
Having a cleaning isn’t necessarily done at the first appointment. We like for you to meet with the dentist at the first appointment. This way we have time to answer any questions you may have regarding necessary treatment you may require or treatment you are interested in, such as whitening. In addition, we will be able to establish whether you need a regular prophylaxis (cleaning), or something more. People accumulate tarter and plaque at different rates. If one of our hygienists has an opening after you meet with the dentist, we will try to coordinate a cleaning following your exam.

I haven’t been to the dentist in a long time. I am afraid of being judged.
You aren’t alone. Too many people feel as though they can’t return to dental treatment because of a critical experience they had in the past. Our office focuses on the present and the future. Our dentists are very thorough in their examination and diagnosis. We will explain to you any current conditions you may have, and any options you may have to treat them. We will never judge you.

Why do I have to fill out so much paperwork?
Good question. There are five forms that must be completed prior to your first visit. The first is the Welcome sheet. This paper gives us your general information, such as name, address, telephone, etc. This form also tells us your insurance information, which is important so we can check and explain your insurance benefits to you. The Patient Medical and Dental History Checklist is also extremely important. Your oral health has a impacting effect on your overall health. Conditions such as heart disease need to be noted in case pre-medication is required prior to dental treatment. The last two forms are simple: our HIPPA Privacy Practices Acknowledgement, and Written Financial Policy.

I have a friend who gets her teeth cleaned every 3 or 4 months, even though her insurance doesn’t pay for it. Why would she do this?
Although the American Dental Association recommends that a person gets their teeth cleaned every six months, some people accumulate tarter and plaque at a faster rate, and therefore require more frequent cleanings. In order to prevent periodontal disease and general tooth decay, it is very common for a person to need more than two dental cleanings per year.

Do you accept Dental Insurance?
Yes, we accept dozens of dental insurance plans including Delta Dental, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield,
Met Life, and Aetna. Aesthetic Dental Associates will submit your insurance claims for you.
Please bring your Dental Insurance card with you to your visits.

Do you have lunchtime appointments?
Yes, both our Hygienists and Dentists see patients through the normal lunch hour. If you need a
lunchtime appointment, please contact our Office Manager.

Do you treat Children?
Yes. We begin treating children at age three. Our office treats families. We can also coordinate your treatment needs to your schedule. It is very important not to let preventative care lapse while older children are away at college. Aesthetic Dental Associates has been serving the South Shore and Cape Cod for over 30 years. Many of our patients started being seen in our office as children, and now they bring their own children.

What are your payment policies?
Co-payments (the uninsured portion of your bill) are due at the time of treatment. We do offer
financing through Care Credit.  Deposits for lab work on crowns and other restorative items are
generally 50% at the time dental impressions are made. To download policies, click here

What is your cancellation policy?
Like most medical offices, we require 48 hours notice for cancellations. Two cancellations not within the
48 hour period in one year are charged to the patient. Missed appointments are also charged for. By not giving adequate notice of cancellation, you are essentially denying another patient treatment. We do not "overbook" appointments so our doctors reserve time
just for you.

What are your hours?
Appointments are scheduled Monday and Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm and Wednesdays between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. We do not have Saturday appointments, however the dentist is always available in case of emergencies.

What are your privacy policies?
We keep patient information strictly confidential, and as such comply with HIPPA guidelines. For
your convenience we keep a printed copy of our privacy policies in our patient waiting room.