Frequently Asked Dental Questions – North Andover, MA

How do you look out for the safety of your patients?

Very well, actually! In addition to following guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), we use disposable products as often as possible. Between each patient visit, we thoroughly clean treatment rooms and sterilize reusable instruments in an autoclave. Because we value safety, we have invested in a digital radiograph, which emits about 80% less radiation that a traditional X-ray machine. We also use intraoral cameras and photography for close-up images, which promotes accurate diagnoses. If you have questions about our safety and sterilization methods, call us. We'll answer your questions with enthusiasm because we love dentistry and our patients.

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

Dr. Beliveau – and our team – take more than the state's requirement for continuing education each year. We also read trade journals, attend professional association meetings, and do everything we can to keep in tune with the latest developments in general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as dental technology. We are passionate about our careers, so we enjoy soaking up new information on our profession, then sharing it with you!

Will you care for my entire family?

Absolutely. We enjoy creating gorgeous, healthy smiles for patients of any age. If we find that your child – or you, for that matter – would benefit from seeing a specialist, we'll refer to a trusted colleague. Some children deal with dental appointments better at a pedodontist's office, that's what a children's dentist is called. We also refer patients who have extensive dental problems, like advanced periodontitis or problematic root canals, to specialist for optimal care. As a general dentist office, our preventive, restorative, prosthetic, and cosmetic dental services include treatments suitable for patients of all ages.

Do you accept referrals?

Yes, and thank you for your confidence. We appreciate your referrals and promise to extend the same comprehensive, caring service to your friends and coworkers that we give you every time you visit.

How can I improve my smile?

The answer to that question is going to be different for every patient. After all, each smile is unique, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution when it comes to dentistry. During your first consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and preferences at length before helping you explore your various options for dental care. Veneers, teeth whitening, tooth-colored restorations, and various forms of replacement teeth may be considered depending on your needs. Your smile makeover plan will consist of a variety of treatments depending on your needs, and we can use digital imaging to give you a preview of the results.

What are my options to replace missing teeth?

We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and implant restorations to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our website, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, Dr. Beliveau can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.

I have chronic headaches. Can you help?

Some headaches might be linked to a dental issue such as a misaligned bite or bruxism (grinding of teeth); others might even be the result of a TMJ disorder. Dr. Beliveau can get to the root of your pain and find a way to correct the problem. In many cases, a customized nightguard can be used to protect your teeth and relieve your pain. Get in touch with us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment so that we can start considering potential solutions for your headaches.

Insurance is very confusing. Can your dental office administrator help me file?

Yes. We understand your confusion and have an expert on staff to help you. Simply bring your card or claim into our dental office, or call to speak with our friendly insurance assistant. We'll be happy to estimate what your insurance will cover and file your claim for you. Please be prepared to pay your co-pay or deductible at the time of service.

Will my insurance cover that?

Dental insurance is diverse. Some policies cover only a small percentage of fees, while others cover 50 percent or greater. The more you or your employer pays for premiums, the better the coverage, in most cases. For the most part, dental insurance covers some restorative and preventive procedures. Cosmetic treatment is not usually covered. We accept CareCredit to make cosmetic dentistry affordable for all of his patients. If you have questions, give us a call. We'll be happy to estimate what your insurance will cover.

How does my insurance company decide what it will pay?

Your benefits are probably based on "usual, customary, and reasonable fees." These fees may not accurately reflect the cost of our services. We are not a clinic, and we offer many luxuries and technologies to make your dental care experience comfortable. We invest time with each of our patients. To us, you are a person, not a number or a chart. Dr. Beliveau and our team invest in more continuing education than is required so that we can bring you the best dental care possible. The fees considered reasonable and customary by your insurance provider probably do not reflect the type of care and service we consider standard.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards, including American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.

How can I finance my dental work?

We have partnered with CareCredit, a trusted name in third-party financing, in order to make dentistry more affordable. CareCredit offers revolving credit, low monthly payments, and no interest for up to 18 months for patients who qualify. Visit the CareCredit website to fill out an online application.