Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Care in Omaha and Millard, NE

Dentistry is not what it used to be. Technology and techniques have greatly improved over the years. Procedures that once took several hours may take just half the time now. Better tools have taken away much of the discomfort of dentistry, leaving you with a quick, comfortable, and safe treatment.

We believe that knowledge is power. Below are some of the more common questions we hear in our office. Go ahead and look – you may be surprised by some of the answers!

Administrative FAQ

Do I need dental insurance to be treated?

No, many of our patients pay for care without the assistance of dental insurance.

No Insurance? No Problem! We have carefully created our in-house Dental Savings Plan, an alternative to dental insurance, to assist patients needing dental benefits. We offer customizable plans for children, individuals, and families. Bonus: By enrolling in our membership plan, you will unlock exclusive discounts and save up to 20% on dental care annually. See just how our Dental Savings Plan can benefit you today.

Is Bel Drive Dental in-network with my dental insurance?

Bel Drive Dental in Omaha gladly accepts all insurance plans, ensuring everyone has convenient access to quality dental care. Before your appointment, our teams will provide a complimentary insurance benefits check to ensure you’re informed about your coverage. Please get in touch with our office to verify if we are in-network with your specific insurance provider.

How much does a dental visit cost?

This depends on the type of care provided, which varies by treatment and patient. We will discuss costs with you before starting any work.

Do you offer payment plans or other financing?

We offer multiple payment options for dental care, including credit cards, cash, and dental financing plans through Cherry Financing and Care Credit.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please notify us 1 business day before your appointment. Without notice, we may charge a late fee to your account.

General Dentistry FAQ

Are dental x-rays safe?

Dental X-rays have one of the lowest radiation exposure rates of all medical imaging. In addition to that, we always do our best to minimize exposure, only performing X-rays when necessary and employing protective measures to reduce exposure.

What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns are fabricated with precision in a lab to mimic the look and function of real teeth. They are needed when insufficient natural teeth remain to fulfill chewing and aesthetic functions. The most common conditions requiring dental crowns are root canal treatment and cracked, broken, or heavily decayed teeth.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants are used to replace missing adult teeth. They function like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat and smile just like a natural tooth. The implant is screwed into the jawbone, allowed to “osseointegrate” with the bone, and then a crown is placed on top. If properly maintained, dental implants can last a lifetime!

How much is a set of dentures?

The cost of dentures varies from patient to patient because each denture is custom-made and depends on your dental insurance coverage. Please get in touch with us for a consultation and a cost estimate for dentures in Omaha, NE.

How often should I visit the dentist?

You should be seen every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning. In some cases, as with periodontal disease, we may recommend that you visit us every three months.

I am afraid to go to the dentist. How does your office handle dental anxiety?

You are not alone! We see patients every day who have anxiety about dental work. Luckily, there are many ways that we can help alleviate dental anxiety. Often, it is enough to talk about your specific fears. This allows us to thoroughly explain the procedures and treatments and prepare you with any needed accommodations. Earphones are another great tool for managing dental anxiety. And, if needed, we can discuss anesthesia options.

Rather than putting your next dental appointment on hold, we offer a wide range of options to help soothe your nerves during your visit. You can be sure to find relaxation services in all of our operating rooms. Our team will provide you with a list of services we offer to make you feel at ease during your appointment at all of our clinics (TV, music, blankets, stress balls, conscious sedation, and nitrous oxide). Whether you had an unpleasant experience as a child or were uncomfortable with the sounds from the tools at Bel Drive Dental, your comfort is our top priority.

Why is oral hygiene important?

Oral hygiene is the most important step in protecting your teeth for life, and it may even help to reduce the risk of disease around the body. Poor dental health is linked to many different conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Brushing twice a day and flossing once is all you need to stay on top of oral hygiene at home.

Do I still need to floss?

Yes, flossing is the ONLY way to remove bacteria and food particles from between teeth, which is a very common area for decay to set in.

What causes sensitive teeth?

There are many different causes of sensitive teeth – some are benign, and some require attention, such as tooth decay, exposed roots, infection, and gum disease. The only way to know for sure is through an oral exam in our office.

Are teeth alive?

Yes! While the crown of the tooth is made up of hard tissue, the inside of the tooth (the “roots”) has live nerves.

How long do veneers last?

While not permanent, veneers do last quite a long time. When properly cared for, they can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

What causes tooth decay and cavities?

Poor oral hygiene, not seeing the dentist regularly, and sugary and acidic foods and beverages are responsible for most cavities.

Emergency Dental Care FAQ

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you are a patient of record, please call us for instructions on how to contact the doctor. If you are a new patient, please call us during business hours – we will do everything we can to see you the same day, if possible. If your situation is life-threatening, you should get medical help immediately.

What do I do if I knock a tooth out?

If you or your child has knocked out a tooth (avulsion), gently rinse (but don’t rub or touch) the tooth with milk or water. Be careful not to touch the root of the tooth. Keep the tooth moist in a glass of milk, water, spit, or the patient’s mouth (if possible) until you can be seen. Call us immediately for instructions and an appointment – the sooner we see you, the more likely we will be able to re-implant the permanent tooth.

I have a broken filling – what should I do?

Call us as soon as you suspect that you have broken a filing to set up an appointment. The sooner we can get to it, the better chance we have of saving the tooth.

What do I do if I have a broken tooth?

If you have broken or cracked a tooth, call us immediately to set up an appointment. The sooner we see you, the more likely we will be able to save the tooth.

Pediatric Dentistry FAQ

Do you offer pediatric dental services, OR do you see children at your practice?

Yes, we offer pediatric dental care to children of all ages in Omaha and surrounding communities. Our dental team is skilled in providing gentle and thorough care for kids. If you are seeking a dentist for your child, look no further – call or book an appointment online to be seen today.

When should my child go to the dentist for the first time?

Your child should see a dentist when the first tooth comes in or before his or her first birthday – whichever comes first.

Is fluoride safe?

Yes, fluoride is safe. Scientists have scrutinized it for over 70 years, and it has consistently been shown to prevent tooth decay without adverse health effects. Learn more about fluoride on the ADA’s website.

What are teeth sealants?

Usually applied to molars and other frequently decayed areas, tooth sealants protect teeth’ enamel from damage and thus reduce the risk of cavities—a great investment for most families.

 

If you have any additional questions, please call us at Bel Drive Dental Office Phone Number (402) 523-2705, and our friendly team will be happy to help.