Your First Visit

Your first visit to our office typically includes an exam by the doctor and a series of X-rays  that allow us to view the structure of the jaw, the position of any teeth that have not yet erupted, malformed roots, and tooth decay.

The initial visit involves a review of your medical history. When you share your medical history, be sure to provide complete, up-to-date information on your health. Inform our office if you have experienced recent hospitalization or surgery, or if you have recently been ill. Also tell us the names, doses, and frequency of any medications you are taking — whether prescription or over-the-counter products — and the name of your physician. Inform us of any changes in your health or medications. This information will help us select the safest and most effective method of treatment for you.

Regular Checkups

We encourage regular checkups for individuals age four and up. Regular checkups are important to:

• Check for problems that you might not see or feel
• Find early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early, while they are still manageable

Regular checkups include a thorough cleaning, polishing, and an oral exam by the doctor. During the oral exam, your doctor will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue, and will check your existing fillings and restorations because constant pressure from chewing, grinding, or clenching can cause them to wear away, chip, or crack.

Regular checkup appointments typically take about 50 minutes. Patients are seen by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately.

Financial Information
As a courtesy for our patients, we will submit your dental insurance and accept assignment.

For your convenience for your portion or if you do not have dental insurance, we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express and CareCredit.  CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that offers 6 and 12 months no interest plans or convenient, fixed monthly payments which include interest for up to 60 months. You can apply online at www.carecredit.com. We make dentistry affordable for everyone!

We deliver the finest care at the most reasonable cost to our patients, therefore payment is due at the time service is rendered unless other arrangements have been made in advance.

Our fees are comparable to dental offices in the area and your treatment will never be compromised in order to meet the arbitrary 'usual and customary' fees your insurance company may impose.

Please remember you are fully responsible for all fees charged by this office regardless of your insurance coverage.

Most insurance companies will respond within four to six weeks. Any remaining balance after your insurance has paid is your responsibility. Your prompt remittance is appreciated.

Insurance

At Shearer Family & Cosmetic Dentistry we make every effort to provide you with the finest care and the most convenient financial options. To accomplish this we work hand-in-hand with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures. If you have any problems or questions, please ask our staff. They are well informed and up-to-date. They can be reached by phone at (859) 647-7068.

Please call if you have any questions or concerns regarding your initial visit.