Q. What can I expect at my first visit?
A. Depending on how long it has been since your last dental visit, your initial visit will consist of meeting with one of our dental hygienists to review your health history and discuss any concerns you have. She will take a blood pressure reading and take any needed x-rays. She will then do a thorough examination of both the inside and outside of your mouth, including teeth and gums, and an oral cancer screening. After consultation with the doctor the hygienist will either proceed with cleaning and polishing of your teeth, or, if due to medication or other reasons, you need a more extensive cleaning, she will begin a program of periodontal care. This may require more than one visit.

The doctor will then do his examination, guided by the hygienist‚s notes, and discuss with you any recommendations for further treatment. If you don't need additional work, we will schedule you for a regular recall visit to see the hygienist.

Q. Does Beachcrest take insurance?
A. We currently participate with Anthem Blue Cross of CT, Blue Cross of RI, Delta Dental, Mashantucket and United Concordia. We are happy to complete and submit claims for all other private dental insurances. When there is an estimated co-pay, we ask that it be paid at the time of service. We do not participate with state Medicaid programs.

Q: What is your policy on x-rays?
A: We never take x-rays that are not needed. However, many dental problems can be properly diagnosed only with the aid of dental x-rays. In order to provide the best care, we recommend that 2-4 bitewing x-rays be taken every year, and a panographic x-ray every 5 years. Our x-ray equipment meets or exceeds requirements for the safety of our patients and staff.

Q: Do you make payment arrangements?
A: We work with two reputable credit agencies to set up interest-free or very low interest loans for dental work. Payment schedules of three, six and twelve months can be set up depending on the amount needed. Please ask at the reception desk if you would like more information.

Q: What types of payment do you accept?
A: We gladly accept cash, checks and the following credit cards: VISA, MasterCard and Discover.

Q: I’d like to just take a look around the office and meet the doctors before actually scheduling an appointment. Can this be done?
A: Certainly! We’ll be happy to set aside time for you to come in for just this purpose. Please call the office to make arrangements.

Q: Do you do tooth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry?
A: Yes! We use two excellent tooth whitening methods: at-home and one hour in-office methods. As well, we are able to improve your smile in many other ways. Our patients walk out of here smiling, sometimes for the first time! We also have an exciting new way to make tooth-colored crowns and inlays in one office visit!