Portsmouth Frequently Asked Dental Questions

How does your team keep up to date on current techniques, technology, and materials in dentistry?

Dr. Murray, Dr. Wilcox, and our entire staff go above and beyond the state's mandatory annual continuing education requirements. To stay at the forefront of general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as dental technology, we regularly read industry publications, participate in professional association gatherings, and actively seek out the latest advancements. Because we truly love what we do, we are excited to continuously learn and bring the newest knowledge back to our patients!

I want to know more about changing my smile. What do you suggest?

The best first step is to schedule a consultation since every smile and every patient's aesthetic goals are completely unique. During your visit, we will discuss our extensive menu of cosmetic procedures and help you determine exactly which treatments will give you the beautiful smile you've always wanted.

I haven’t been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let someone look at my mouth. How will you treat me?

First, we want to commend you for making the wise decision to take charge of your oral health! Your dental health is deeply connected to your overall well-being, confidence, and quality of life. Please rest assured that our team is completely non-judgmental. Instead, we will focus on resolving your dental issues, walking you through your treatment choices, and creating a customized plan of action that fits perfectly with your schedule and budget.

Do you accept referrals?

We certainly do, and we are incredibly grateful for your trust in us! We highly value when you send your friends, family, and colleagues our way. You have our word that we will provide them with the exact same level of compassionate, thorough, and high-quality care that you receive at every appointment.

Can you provide dental care to my whole family?

Yes, we absolutely treat patients of all ages and love helping entire families achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. As a general dentistry practice, our preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services are designed to accommodate everyone. However, if a specific situation requires specialized attention—such as a child who does better in a dedicated pediatric environment, or a complex case involving severe gum disease or difficult root canals—we will gladly refer you to a trusted specialist to ensure you get the best possible care.

When should children have their first dental visit?

We recommend bringing your little one in as soon as their first tooth appears! While the American Dental Association suggests a first checkup by age one, we often find that kids do great with their first official visit around age three. A great way to ease them into it is to bring them along to one of your own appointments so they can get used to the dental environment. If you ever spot any developmental issues with their teeth or gums, give us a call right away. Otherwise, we love starting to teach kids proper oral hygiene habits around age three or four, and by the time they are four or five, they are ready to start regular cleanings and exams.

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

Act quickly! Submerge the knocked-out tooth in a cup of milk, making sure to bring it with you when you immediately call our office or head straight to the clinic. To care for the empty socket in the meantime, gently apply a warm, damp washcloth over the affected gum area.

I can’t take off work for my dental appointment. Do you have late hours?

We completely understand how busy work schedules can be, which is why we provide extended office hours, including late afternoon and early morning appointment slots, to accommodate your needs. Just give us a call to book a time that works best for you.

Dental Insurance is very confusing. Can you help me file?

Navigating dental insurance can definitely be complicated, but we are here to simplify the process for you. All you need to do is bring your insurance card or claim forms to our office, or give our helpful insurance assistant a call. We will gladly calculate your estimated coverage and handle filing the claim on your behalf.

Do you accept my dental insurance plan?

We are in-network with a wide variety of dental insurance providers and will gladly submit your claims for you. We will also supply your insurance company with all the required documentation to ensure you receive the maximum benefits available under your plan. Just remember to have your deductible or co-payment ready at the time of your service.

Can I finance my dental work?

Yes, we want to ensure your dental care is financially accessible, which is why we team up with CareCredit, a long-trusted name in third-party healthcare financing. For qualifying patients, CareCredit provides flexible revolving credit lines, manageable monthly installments, and even promotional periods with zero interest for up to 18 months.