Financial Policy

• You may pay 100% of your charges with cash or check and receive a 5% courtesy discount.
• You may pay 60% of your restorative charges if you have a credit card on file with us.  This credit card will be charged with the remaining balance after insurance pays or denies claim.
• For preventative charges if you have a credit card on file with us then you will not pay anything at the time of your visit.  Your credit card will be charged with the remaining balance after insurance pays or denies claim.

How long will my first visit last?

Your first visit will last between 1.5 and 2 hours.  Dr. Bill Gerlach enjoys taking time to get to know his patients and gather some information regarding their dental health goals.  As an adult, we will take a full set of x-rays and perform complete a comprehensive oral examination.  This examination will include a muscle evaluation, oral cancer screening, occlusal function, and periodontal evaluation.

The following are answers to some of the questions we are asked most often. If you need more information about any of the topics below or have questions about anything else, please don’t hesitate to ask.

How do I know when it’s time to come in for a checkup?
An average, healthy adult benefits from a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Some patients require more frequent hygene visits. Twice daily brushing and flossing goes a long way toward maintaining your oral health, but only a trained professional can check for and remove calculus, as well as look for any signs of periodontal disease.

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Do you accept my insurance plan?
We are a fee for service practice and most of our patients have the ability to choose their own dentist. We will file your claims electronically and often we are able to even get same-day verification of your benefits. In fact, by filing electronically, we’ve found that our average claim is paid in 10 days. Additionally, we have a team member, Ann, who is our “Insurance Wizard.” Ann will act as an advocate on your behalf and will do everything she can to ensure you get the maximum benefits.

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What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
If you have a true dental emergency, please contact our office and let us know the nature of your condition. In addition, if your situation requires care that’s outside of our services, we can make arrangements for you with a variety of trusted specialists.

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What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?
The first thing you’ll notice when you walk through our door is the soothing, relaxed, and confident environment. Next, you’ll feel the excellent chemistry among our team members.
As our patient, you will be cared for like family, with team members attending to your needs, answering your questions, and making you feel right at home. Finally, you will experience our philosophy of collaboration during every discussion and every decision.

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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
If you have bleeding gums following brushing, the condition may or may not require attention. Bleeding gums can be caused by any of the following: improper, rough ‘scrubbing’ instead of gentle, circular brushing motions; using a hard-bristled tooth brush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or calculus build-up below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gum disease. If this problem persists despite correct brushing and flossing techniques, or occurs every time you brush, contact our office to set up an evaluation.

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I really do not like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?
We realize that you may feel nervous or even uncomfortable about having dental work done
so we do everything we can to create a relaxing atmosphere for you. All of our team members are truly gentle, caring, and compassionate individuals and your comfort is always top of mind. We also offer laughing gas, oral sedation (you are carefully monitored while under sedation), IV anesthesia (we have an anesthesiologist come in), and local anesthesia.

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What is Smile Analysis?
A smile analysis determines the proper aesthetics of your new smile based on your facial symmetry, lip line, and other features. Each person has a unique “perfect” smile that is proportional and flattering to your face. We take digital photos of your smile and face and then we discuss what your concerns are, what you’d like to change, and what your goals are.

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What is Smile Design?
When designing your new smile, we send physical models of your teeth to the lab so they can make a wax “mock up” of your new smile. You can use this to “try on” your new smile before we begin any cosmetic work. We will then create a customized treatment plan that best meets your aesthetic goals. Most importantly, as members of your treatment “team,” we will listen to you every step of the way. We firmly believe communication is the key to successful aesthetic dentistry.

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