Frequently Asked Questions

• How does Dr. Deneka keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?
• How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
• At what age should my children first see a dentist?
• Do you accept referrals?
• Do you accept my insurance plan?
• What if I need to cancel an appointment? Will I be charged?
• My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?
• What different payment options you provide?
• How can I have whiter teeth?
• What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
• I really don't like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?
• What is Smile Analysis?
• My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
• Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?
• I want my front teeth to look better but I don't want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
• How can I ask Dr. Deneka questions directly? 

How does Dr. Deneka keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Dr. Deneka subscribes to the latest industry journals to keep tabs on research and development in the dental industry. He also takes time on a regular basis for continuing education, and ensures his staff does the same. When he is not able to attend an important convention, he tries to purchase audio copies of the courses so he can get cutting edge information "right from the horse's mouth." As a team and as individuals, our office makes it our responsibility to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available. Anyone who has ever driven with Dr. Deneka knows he always has a course or two in his car CD player.

In the office, we have an extensive supply of courses on tape and CD, as well as a healthy supply of journals and trade magazines. Dr. Deneka belongs to several on-line e-mail groups where he can share information with experts on a daily basis. Dr. Deneka is a member of many professional associations. They include: The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, The Ontario Dental Association, The Canadian Dental Association, The American Dental Association, The Academy of General Dentistry, The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and Generation Next.

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How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?

Since no two people are alike, there is no standard answer for this question. We take the time to get to know each of our patients, including their past dental history, present condition, future needs and goals. We then customize a treatment plan for that individual's particular needs and goals.

Studies show that anywhere from 70-90% of adults have some form of gum disease, requiring more frequent visits to ensure dental health. With new information linking gum disease to systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, it is more important than ever to keep your gums healthy and happy. Gum disease is very difficult to find on your own since often it is not painful. While daily brushing and daily flossing go a long way towards maintaining a healthy mouth, it's wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar; this condition requires professional cleaning to avoid gingivitis.

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At what age should my children first see a dentist?

We usually like to see children in our office by the age of three, so we can anticipate the development of their overall bite and dental development prior to the emergence of the permanent teeth. At this young age, it's quite simple to recognize and take steps to prevent potential future problems. The first time we meet them is often during one of the parent's or sibling's appointments.

We are very proud of our children's program, run by Shelley. Shelley will be happy to take your "little one" on a tour of the office and give them a prize to make their first visit a memorable one! We'll introduce ourselves and make them feel comfortable with our team. Then, on their first real visit, we treat them gently and with special care, ensuring the experience is positive and non-threatening. Of course, if your toddler accidentally chips or knocks out a tooth prior to this age, you should let us know right away.

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Do you accept referrals?

We always welcome new patients. Most of our new patients come to us as referrals from our existing clientele who want their friends to have a happy dental home. Even if you don't know someone who is presently a client, you are more than welcome to join our dental family. Since we enjoy providing cosmetic dentistry, we're eager to help the family and friends of our patients.

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Do you accept my insurance plan?

Since Dr. Deneka is a member of the Ontario Dental Association, the professional organization of Ontario's dentists, we feel that we must comply with the wishes of our professional organization. The Ontario Dental Association requests we do not accept the assignment of benefits from insurance companies. The feeling is by doing so, we place the practice between the insurance company and the client who has the policy, interfering with the treatment of our clients. We want to provide our clients with the option to accept their treatment rather than let an insurance company, who has never seen the client, determine what is best.

What we can do for you is submit your insurance claim electronically so you can receive reimbursement as quickly as possible. We will also do our best to help you understand your benefits. Unfortunately, we are unable to keep track of the multitude of insurance plans or the changes that regularly occur.

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What if I need to cancel an appointment? Will I be charged?

In order to maintain a well-run office, we request all changes in appointments be made at least 48 working hours ahead of time. This allows us to contact patients on our priority list and use the time effectively. Unfortunately, short notice changes causes our team to spend time refilling our schedule rather than serving our patients' needs.

When we book appointments, we ask you make sure the time is good for you. Please remember if we lose time, it could be the time you may have needed for an emergency or required treatment.

Our goal is to provide excellent dental care in an efficient and prompt manner. Out of respect for all of our patients and staff members, we reserve the right to bill for our time, preparation and lost treatment.

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My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?

If the tooth is not soiled, try to reposition it in the tooth socket and come in as soon as possible for treatment because the tooth should be re-implanted no later than 30 minutes after it is lost.the sooner the better!

If the tooth is soiled, rinse it off with milk (or salt water if no milk is available) reposition in the socket and come in for treatment. Do not scrape the tooth surface, and definitely do not rinse in alcohol to clean it.

If your child's tooth is knocked out during office hours, but there is no imminent medical emergency, please contact us immediately to see Dr. Deneka as soon as possible. Simply describe the situation over the phone and our office staff will help you determine the safest and most appropriate plan of action.

If it's after office hours, try calling Dr. Deneka at home. The number is in the telephone book. If you are unable to reach him, you should go to the Emergency department at the local hospital. Try to reposition the tooth yourself. If you are unable to do so, store the tooth in milk. Do not let it dry out. Do not, under any circumstances, clean it with alcohol.

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What different payment options do you provide?

We accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, VISA and MasterCard. We ask for payment at the time of the appointment. We have found most of our clients who have insurance receive payment within a few days. Paying at the time of the appointment saves time and effort for everyone.

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How can I have whiter teeth?

There are a number of procedures available to help whiten your smile. These can be as simple as in-home whitening to provide advanced cosmetic solutions. Dr. Deneka can help evaluate your potential for whitening your teeth, based on their current color and the causes of any discoloration. Once you have decided on the most appropriate method, we can start you along the road to a great smile!

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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

Our entire practice team is well-versed in state-of-the-art sanitation techniques designed to ensure patient safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and face masks to prevent passing germs, and includes a specialized sanitation center and a water filtration system guaranteeing a fresh water source for each patient, eliminating the concern of waterline contamination.

To ensure your concerns are addressed, please feel free to ask questions of anyone on the team. Donna is our resident expert on sterilization and ensures that all of our systems are working properly. She is also a member of OSAP (The Organization for Safety and Asepsis Procedures).

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I really don't like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?

First of all, our friendly, home-like setting will immediately put you at ease. Our caring and attentive staff will address your specific concerns. Some of our comfort techniques include topical anesthetic, oral sedatives, DVDs and virtual vision glasses, blankets, warm towels and massage pads. Your comfort is of the utmost importance to us.

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What is Smile Analysis?

When you decide to correct or enhance your smile, Dr. Deneka will complete your oral exam, discuss your smile goals and create a treatment plan. Whether you're considering teeth whitening, teeth straightening, bonding, veneers or full smile recontouring, Dr. Deneka will discuss the options with you.

Your specific goals are a very important aspect of smile analysis. It's our job to help you achieve those goals. We often use digital photographs and cosmetic wax ups to help you see "the future." When you are in the office, ask to see some of our smile makeovers.

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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

The most common cause of tooth loss is gum disease. Of graver importance are the links between gum disease and various serious conditions including heart disease, stroke, respiratory ailments, osteoporosis, diabetes, low birth weight and premature babies.

It's important to realize healthy gums do not bleed with brushing and flossing. Bleeding is typically a sign of gum disease (also called periodontal disease or pyorrhea). Gum disease is a progressive condition that can be prevented if diagnosed and treated early, however, more advanced stages can often cause irreversible damage. Be sure to have your teeth and gums checked regularly to prevent problems from gum disease.

Remember, bleeding is generally not a normal event. If you noticed bleeding from your fingernails after you washed your hands, you would be concerned. The same should hold true for your teeth!

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Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?

You may not realize it, but even when your mouth is clean, it is full of bacteria. These naturally occurring microorganisms like to eat even the smallest bits of leftover food particles; after doing this, they deposit a sticky residue on the teeth called plaque. Plaque accumulates during the day, especially in places where your toothbrush can’t reach. Left to harden into tartar (calculus), plaque build-up irritates your gums and can trigger inflammation and gum disease.

Sound like a nasty situation? It doesn't have to be. In fact, you can eliminate much of this plaque by carefully brushing and properly flossing every day. It's really that simple. Your toothbrush reaches the tops and sides of the teeth, while the floss cleans between the teeth, polishing them and controlling bad breath. So, in just an extra minute or two, you've taken a giant step in the war against those bacteria.

Think of it this way.brushing is like washing the top of your car, while flossing is like cleaning the wheel wells and undercarriage. Only the latter helps to avoid rust!

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I want my front teeth to look better but I don't want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

A new smile can revitalize your overall appearance and improve your self-esteem. A new smile can change your life! There are several procedures that can give you a brighter, more attractive smile. These non-orthodontic treatments include veneers, esthetic crowns, whitening, bonding and recontouring.

After conducting a thorough examination and consultation, we can create a customized treatment plan to help you get that new smile! We want you to know we will spend the time planning to ensure you get the best we have to offer. We don't want to imply that everyone can be treated without orthodontics; if your particular situation is best treated that way, we will let you know.

You can visit our Photo Gallery to see some of our happy smiles.

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How can I ask Dr. Deneka questions directly?

Often our clients have questions about treatment options, different topics they've heard about or anything else of concern. These questions often arise during an appointment and usually a member of our qualified team can provide you with answers. Sometimes you may wish to discuss your concern or question with the doctor directly, simply ask him when you see him or have one of our team get his attention.

On occasion, especially with questions relating to treatment, the answer may be long, complicated and involved. It may also require us gathering more information for you. If this is the case, we may ask to rebook you for specific time with the doctor. This will allow you to get a thorough answer to your questions and concerns.

Our Web site also offers an "Ask the Doctor" section where you can e-mail your questions. Please keep in mind since no two people are alike, we can only provide generic answers to questions in this form so the information should be seen just as a starting point for dealing with your individual dental concerns.

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