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Still need answers?

If your question is not answered on this page, give us a call at (620) 669-1032. We are more than happy to answer all your other questions.

Below are questions we've heard quite often from patients throughout our many years in Hutchinson, Kansas. Perhaps by reading the answers, you can learn a little more about our philosophy and us.

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

At the end of your appointment, we'll schedule your next visit, and then send you a reminder. An average, healthy adult person typically benefits from a professional cleaning and check up every six months, although patients with periodontitis can benefit from more frequent visits. While brushing and flossing twice daily go a long way towards maintaining a healthy mouth, it is wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar, which requires professional cleaning in order to avoid gingivitis. Regular dental visits are the best investment you can make in your dental health. Financially, you get the biggest "bang for your buck" by keeping your regular recall appointments.

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Do you accept referrals?

We've been serving the community for so long because of the positive word-of-mouth about our dental practice. In fact, most of our patients come to our Hutchinsons dental office because of referrals from other dental offices as well as family and friends. We consider your referrals our best compliments!

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What different payment options do you provide?

We try to make it as easy as possible for you, and ensure you are in complete agreement about the cost of our treatment plan for you. We accept cash, personal checks and all major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard. Your insurance plan co-pay is due at the time of your visit, but we can bill deductible payments over a period of time according to your particular situation. Please let us know ahead of time if you desire to pay in installments so we can structure an appropriate plan for you through CareCredit, a dental financing institution.

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How can I safely whiten my teeth?

We have found just about everyone wants a whiter smile. In fact, we've noticed it's a universal desire and quite easy to implement. We offer Bravo take-home teeth whitening solution you will use for about an hour a day for about two weeks. You will place this solution in a tray customized for your mouth that we created here in the office. This customized tray ensures the solution is applied evenly and correctly to your teeth. By the end of two weeks, your teeth will be whiter and brighter... perhaps up to ten shades lighter.

For those wanting faster results, we offer the ZOOM! In-Office Whitening System, a revolutionary teeth whitening procedure. It's safe, effective and fast - very fast. In just an hour and a half, your teeth will be dramatically whiter. ZOOM! Whitening is ideal for anyone looking for immediate results. Whitening is one of our favorite procedures among our patients.

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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

Our team is well trained in state-of-the-art sanitation techniques designed to ensure patient safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent passing germs, and includes a specialized sanitation center.

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What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?

In Hutchinson, Kansas, we think we have built a solid reputation as a dental practice that provides state-of-the-art care. Not only is Dr. Briscoe a professional, our team is highly trained and caring as well. Our patients tell us they appreciate how we think of them as individuals, not just another set of teeth to fix and clean. Our goal is to help you obtain and maintain the best possible oral health.

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

Unfortunately, it may be something serious, such as a signal of advanced periodontitis. Periodontal disease affects about 80 percent of the population, and unhealthy gums can lead to tooth loss. No matter how much time and energy we spend on your teeth, it will mean little if your gums are not healthy. Please make an appointment to speak to us about this right away. We want you to keep your teeth for life.

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

We know you know the answer to this question! Unfortunately, we also know how seemingly difficult it is to floss every day. It's one of those habits that is difficult to build up. The best advice we can give is to try it for 30 days in a row. Often a habit can take hold after 30 days and seem like a regular part of your routine. Regular flossing is truly critical for your overall oral health. It loosens food particles in tight spaces your toothbrush cannot reach, gets rid of plaque build-up toothbrushes alone cannot remove and exercises your gum tissues. All of which is necessary to avoid gum disease. So, just think of daily flossing as the finishing touch after brushing - insurance for your smile's future.

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I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

We would recommend instant orthodontics--or the use of porcelain veneers. These are thin pieces of porcelain we place over your front teeth. For slightly crooked or unevenly worn teeth, a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers may be sufficient to give them a bright, uniform look and will help you avoid using braces. Dr. Briscoe would be happy to speak with you further about the option best suiting your individual situation.

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     1710 East 23rd Street ~ Hutchinson, Kansas 67502 ~ Phone 620-669-1032 ~ Fax 620-669-1040


©2004 Richard L. Briscoe, DDS, PA ~ Site designed and maintained by TNT Dental