Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about the practice:
- What procedures and services do you offer?
- Why choose Harvard Vanguard for your dental care?
- Do I need to be a Harvard Vanguard patient?
- How do I make an appointment?
- Where are the offices located?
- What if I have an emergency?
- What can I expect at my first visit?
- When should my child first visit a dentist?
- What dental insurance are accepted?
- Are there payment options available?
Questions about oral health:
- What is cosmetic dentistry?
- What is tooth whitening or bleaching?
- What is a root canal?
- What is gum disease?
What procedures and services do you offer?
Harvard Vanguard dentists provide a full range of preventive,
diagnostic, restorative, and specialty services to adults and children.
Why choose Harvard Vanguard for your dental care?
The dental practice at Harvard Vanguard is part of a healthcare
organization that is dedicated to clinical excellence and individualized
service . We offer several convenient locations
that offer early morning, evening, and Saturday appointments in addition
to our regular daytime hours. And we have a general dentist, pediatric
dentist, and oral surgeon on call 24 hours a day for emergencies. Our
experienced dental specialists look forward
to building a long-term relationship with you and your family.
Do I need to be a Harvard Vanguard patient?
No, you do not need to be a medical patient of Harvard Vanguard to receive
care from our dental practice.
How do I make an appointment?
Call the office that
is convenient to you to request an appointment. Appointments are
available during many early morning, evening and Saturday hours in addition
to regular daytime hours.
Where are the offices located?
We currently have five
convenient locations: Boston, Braintree, Chelmsford, Peabody, and
Somerville.
What if I have an emergency?
A general dentist, pediatric dentist and oral surgeon are on call 24
hours a day for emergencies. Call the office
that is convenient to you with any questions.
What can I expect at my first visit?
Before your first visit, you’ll receive a package outlining our practice
policies and a medical history form for you to complete. Please complete
the form and bring it with you at your first visit.
Your dentist will ask about your concerns and examine your mouth and teeth. A full series of x-rays will be taken unless you bring a recent set with you.
Your dentist will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that meets your needs and will coordinate care with your primary care physician and other specialists if necessary.
When should my child first visit a dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends that parents take their children
to the dentist by their first birthday. At that visit, the dentist will
offer advice about nutrition and keeping your child’s teeth healthy.
The visit provides both parents and their children with an opportunity
to get familiar with the dental staff and equipment in a reassuring
environment.
What dental insurance are accepted?
We accept many insurance plans. Contact us
by e-mail or call
us and our staff will be pleased to assist you with questions. The
range of benefits depends on the plan that your employer has chosen.
The level of coverage depends on your specific dental plan.
Are there payment options available?
If you have dental insurance, bring your insurance card with you to
your first visit. If your insurance does not cover the cost of your
care, you will be asked to pay at the time of service. We accept most
major credit cards and have financing options available for certain
specialty procedures. Please ask our staff about payment options.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic Dentistry is treatment that will improve the appearance of
your teeth and enhance your smile. Treatments include bleaching or whitening
of stained or discolored teeth, placing veneers or crowns and straightening
your teeth by means of braces (orthodontics) or Invisalign.
What is tooth whitening or bleaching?
There are several ways to make your teeth whiter and your smile brighter.
Many of these systems have been improved in recent years.
What is a root canal?
Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime; however, if one of your teeth
becomes damaged or injured, it can often be saved with root canal (endodontics)
treatment. The diseased pulp will be removed, the chamber cleaned, and
a temporary filling will be placed in the crown opening. This may take
more than one appointment. The final step is to have a crown placed
over the tooth.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the
tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of
tooth loss in adults. Gum disease is usually painless.
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that damage the gums. Gum disease can develop painlessly. In the early stages of gum disease, gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is reversible and can usually be eliminated by professional cleaning and daily homecare, including brushing and flossing.