FAQs

Why are checkups recommended every six months, even for people with great oral health?

We use DIAGNOdent laser cavity detection to find cavities in the earliest stages, and often that means that you don't see or feel them. Early detection allows us to provide the most conservative treatment, which saves you time, expense, and possible discomfort. We also use the ViziLite to screen for oral cancer, a disease that will affect more than 30-thousand Americans this year. Oral cancer is deadly, but early detection offers an 80-percentcure rate. Gum disease is another sneaky problem that we try to catch early. It has been linked to stroke, heart attack, osteoporosis, and other health risks, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults.

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Do you refer patients to specialists?

While we are trained and equipped to handle many dental issues in our office, including dental implant placement and root canal therapy, when a specialist would better serve you, we'll refer. Some dental specialists are oral surgeons, periodontists (supporting structures), endodontists (internal tooth problems), orthodontists (for moving teeth), and pedodontists (for children). We refer to only trusted professionals with whom we have a good rapport.

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My smile is missing teeth. What do you suggest I do?

You'll need to first schedule a consultation with the dentist. He can assess your oral health and discuss options for replacement teeth. In general, you can choose from crown and bridgework, partial or full dentures, or dental implants. As the most natural prosthetic to natural tooth structure, a dental implant offers the most long-lasting, comfortable, natural-looking choice.

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What are mini dental implants?

MDIs are dental implants that hold dentures in place, and they can be surgically implanted in one day. Implant-supported dentures create a reliable hold and freedom from messy adhesives! Learn more about MDI on their website.

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Does your office use lasers?

We use many kinds of lasers for precise, comfortable dentistry… DIAGNOdent is our cavity-detection laser. It will scan your teeth to find decay and areas prone to decay, and we will not have to inspect each of your teeth with a traditional dental hook.

Our soft-tissue laser allows us to treat gum disease, perform crown lengthening, harvest and place gum grafts, reduce gum tissue for esthetics, and do biopsies. You will need no stitches after laser surgery, and bleeding is minimal. Most patients recover more quickly after laser surgery than they do following traditional surgery.

Our hard tissue laser removes decay, replacing the traditional dental drill. We can also do bone grafts with this laser.

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What does FAGD mean?

FAGD stands for Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. Only seven percent of general dentists nationwide have received this prestigious designation. To earn his FAGD, Dr. Vargo took 500 hours of continued education from an approved provider and passed the fellowship exam. Because he is dedicated to providing our patients with the latest and greatest technologies and procedures, Dr. Vargo dedicates much time and effort to staying current with the fast-changing world of dentistry.

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

Our dentists – 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!

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I avoid dental visits because of anxiety…is this normal? Can you help?

Many people fear dental visits because of negative past experiences or control issues. We understand dental anxiety and offer a solution to help you overcome your stress. With oral conscious sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need – and deserve.

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I have not been to the dentist in years, and I’m ashamed to let a professional see the condition of my mouth. Is your staff judgmental?

First of all, congratulations on your wise decision to prioritize dental healthcare. Your mouth is a big part of your overall health, quality of life, and self-esteem. We will not judge you, but help you by addressing your oral problems, explaining treatment options, then scheduling a plan of action that suits your schedule and your budget.

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How long is a new patient visit? What will happen?

Your first appointment with us will take about an hour. First, we’ll review your paperwork and medical history and discuss the reasons for your visit. Then your dentist will conduct a thorough exam of your teeth and soft tissues. We’ll obtain digital X-rays and use an intraoral camera to take pictures inside your mouth. You’ll also receive an oral cancer screening. The doctor will explain his findings, answer all of your questions, and discuss therapy recommendations. You’ll leave with a plan to achieve the fantastic smile that you deserve! In most cases, your professional cleaning can be done at this time as well.

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How can I improve my smile?

That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile. We offer digital imaging for smile previews, as well.

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How can I safely whiten my teeth?

The ADA recommends dentist-supervised teeth whitening for superior results. The dentist will be able to assess your soft-tissues and tooth enamel to determine the best type of whitening in your unique situation. He may recommend in-office bleaching with Zoom! or take-home teeth whitening. Our professional-strength whitening solution contains hydrogen peroxide, which has been proven safe and effective in clinical studies, and fluoride, which will help strengthen your tooth enamel. Call today and reserve your appointment to learn which option is right for you.

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I have chronic headaches. Can you help?

Chronic headaches may be a symptom of a misaligned bite, bruxism (grinding), or TMJ disorder. Our dentist will carefully examine your occlusion (bite), jaw, head, and neck to determine the underlying causes of your pain. Oftentimes, we can correct the problem with a custom nightguard. Call our office if you have more questions about headache relief with non-surgical therapies.

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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.

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Will you see my kids and my grandparents?

Yes! We love families and see many of them. Our services are diverse, so we offer dentures for our older patients, as well as sealants for our youngest patients. Call to schedule comprehensive initial exams for everyone in your family – because their smiles are invaluable family assets!

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Can I finance my dental work?

We have partnered with CareCredit and CitiHealth, two trusted names in third-party financing, in order to make dentistry more affordable. CareCredit and CitiHealth offer revolving credit, low monthly payments, and no interest for up to 18 months for patients who qualify. Visit their websites to fill out an application online.

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Call today to reserve your appointment, consultation, or second-opinion visit. For over 30 years, White Oak residents have depended on us for comprehensive dental care in a relaxing, family-friendly environment.