We’re happy to answer any questions about our office, services, and dentistry. If you don’t see your question and answer below, please contact us via email or at 770-995-7616.
How does the doctor keep up-to-date on current procedures and technology?
Dental technology is advancing rapidly. Dr. Carter remains up to date through many hours of continuing education with emphases on cosmetic dentistry and complex restorative dentistry.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We accept all traditional plans. If you are in a network in which you have to choose from a list of specific dentists, please feel free to call our office to see if you have coverage outside your network. If not, you are still welcome as a patient. If you desire to stay within the network, we will be happy to help you locate a dentist on your plan.
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
Emergencies all too often occur outside of regular business hours. If you have a dental emergency, please call us at 770-995-7616 and an emergency number will be provided.
What different payment options do you provide?
We offer several different payment options to serve the needs of our patients. We will allow up to two payments on large cases without any interest incurred. If you require a longer payback period, we work with Care Credit, which meets a variety of financing needs including 6 months with no interest if you qualify.
How can I ask Dr. Carter questions directly?
Dr. Carter is always available to answer dental questions by phone or at your dental visit. Consultations are also available at no cost to you for complicated treatment or cosmetic dentistry needs.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
Studies show that home (tray) bleaching with carbamide peroxide is one of the safest and effective bleaching methods available. The degree of whitening and predictability of this method of bleaching is often more predictable than in-office bleaching methods. Please ask about Brighter Smiles for Brighter Futures, which enables you to whiten your teeth, help in the fight against breast cancer, and receive a tax deduction for your donation. (The office donates its time and receives no compensation for bleaching services during this fundraising effort.)
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
We heat sterilize all instruments in an autoclave that has been tested on a regular basis by an independent company. If an instrument can’t be heat sterilized, we submerge it in a chemical sterilant for 24 hours. Furthermore, in between patients, we thoroughly clean and wipe down treatment rooms with a hospital grade surface disinfectant cleaner. We also use barrier techniques to protect hard-to-clean surfaces in the treatment rooms.
What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?
Our initial adult exam sets us apart from many dental offices. Prior to the first scheduled cleaning, you’ll meet Dr. Carter to ensure that your concerns are heard.
Prior to the first scheduled cleaning, Dr. Carter performs a very thorough exam, which includes digital x-rays, digital photography, cancer screening, cosmetic dentistry evaluation (if needed), TMJ exam, and an examination of the teeth and gums.
We believe that all options should be explored and explained so that the patient can play an important part in the decision-making process.
Dr. Carter’s office focuses on preventative care and will always strive to do what is best for the patient’s oral health.
Where can I learn more about these procedures: crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials?
Dr. Carter is happy to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these forms of treatment. The appropriate method of treatment depends on the health of the teeth and the stability of the patient's bite. For more information, see the Library.
I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
To give the appearance of straight teeth, porcelain veneers can sometimes be used instead of moving the teeth with braces. Veneers should not be used if braces are the best alternative for improving the position of the teeth or if the teeth are severely out of alignment.
What’s the difference between porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored porcelain designed to cover the front side of teeth. Crowns cover the entire tooth.
Veneers are used to improve the appearance of misaligned teeth or teeth that are stained, badly shaped or crooked. Crowns completely cover a tooth or cover an implant where a tooth has been lost. A crown can attach a bridge, protect a weak tooth, or restore a broken tooth. A crown can also cover discolored or badly shaped teeth.
