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FAQ

Insurance

What is the Riverheart Dental Savings Plan?

The Riverheart Dental Savings Plan is a plan that helps families and patients save money on treatments they need.

Who is the Riverheart Dental Savings Plan for?

The plan is for individuals or families who would like to save money on dental care but don't have dental insurance. Below you will see some examples of the savings available to patients who join the plan.

How much does it cost to be a member of the Riverheart Dental Savings Plan?

Your treatment coordinator will be happy to discuss the plan costs and savings available.

What offices accept the Riverheart Dental Savings Plan?

Currently, our office serving the O'Fallon area is accepting the plan.

How do I sign up?

Your treatment coordinator will get you signed up after you discuss the benefits of the plan.

Dental Implants

How many appointments will it take to get implants?

You can expect to visit our office 3-4 times during your dental implant treatment experience. The full process includes your initial free consultation, treatment planning, implant surgery, artificla tooth placement, and follow-ups to check on your progress.

Do you offer sedation?

Yes, we offer sedation to patients undergoing implant surgery. This ensures a painless and relaxing experience, as well as helping ease any anxiety prior to your procedure.

What happens if I don’t get an implant?

Missing teeth make it difficult to properly eat your food, leading to digestive problems and nutritional deficiencies. After you lose a tooth, your jaw will also begin to shrink, which will cause your facial muscles to sag.

What are implants made out of?

Implants are made out of biocompatiable titanium. We select this material because it fuses with the surrounding jawbone tissue to stimulate bone growth. This helps provide durability and stability to your implant, as well as helping to replace bone tissue that may have been damaged or lost.

Do implants hurt?

Getting an implant involves a minor surgical procedure, during which your dentist will insert the implants into your jawbone. Some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort following the procedure are natural and will pass within a few days. Be sure to follow the post-operative care instructions we provide you with to ensure a comfortable recovery.

Dental Checkup

How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

Be sure to have your teeth cleaned professionally by our team every six months to keep your teeth cavity-free, your gums healthy, and your smile bright.

Are cleanings covered by insurance?

Yes, checkups and cleanings are covered by insurance. Most major dental insurance plans cover two preventive visits a year. Deep cleanings are often covered in part by insurance, although the total rate of coverage will depend on your insurance provider.

How often should I see the dentist?

While every patient is different, you can expect to visit at least twice a year, or every six months.

Do dental cleanings hurt?

No, a cleaning is a very gentle experience. Our hygienists take their time and use a gentle approach to make sure you never experience any pain or discomfort. Patients with gingivitis (tender, swollen, or bleeding) gums may experience some discomfort during their cleaning, but we try to make sure all our patients are as comfortable as possible.

Teeth Whitening

Why are my teeth stained?

There are many reasons for a discolored smile, including wine, coffee, smoking or other lifestyle habits. Your smile can also dull as you age or after taking certain medications. While over-the-counter whitening products may offer small improvements, a professional teeth whitening system is designed to deliver more significant and longer-lasting results.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

No. Teeth whitening is a very safe, comfortable procedure. Compared to at-home kits you see online, professional teeth whitening overseen by your dentist guarantees that your safety and dental health are never compromised. Dr. Schwarz will monitor your teeth whitening progress and make sure you do not experience any uncomfortable tooth sensitivity in an effort to improve your smile.

Why should I choose teeth whitening?

Patients have the convenience of choosing between an in-office whitening procedure, which produces dramatic results in just under an hour, or a take-home whitening treatment that uses custom-fit trays and medical-grade gel to comfortably lighten your teeth over a 1-2 week period. Your comfort and convenience are at the hallmark of how we execute dentistry. Therefore, we want our patients to choose a whitening method that works best for their schedule, budget and personal preferences.

How much does teeth whitening cost?

Professional teeth whitening is a cost-effective way to brighten your smile, but the total cost of your procedure will depend on your unique treatment needs. At Riverheart Dentistry, we strive to make our services as affordable and accessible as possible. We offer convenient financing options to help you get the high-quality care you deserve.

Invisalign

Can teens get Invisalign?

Yes, teens can benefit from Invisalign treatment. Many young patients may be candidates for clear aligners, so be sure to talk to our team about an Invisalign consultation for your teen or tween.

Is Invisalign right for me?

When it comes to straightening your teeth, it’s about more than just getting a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Misaligned teeth are more difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing, a problem that can lead to numerous dental health issues if left unaddressed. Even common dental concerns such as overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth can result in lifelong problems, such as chronic headaches, teeth grinding, difficulty chewing properly, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Is Invisalign covered by insurance?

The cost of Invisalign treatment is typically covered in part by most dental insurance plans. Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your plan and stated benefits. We’ll be sure to confirm your benefits to help you make the most of your coverage. 

How much does Invisalign cost?

Invisalign is an important investment in your smile and overall oral health. However, the full cost of your treatment will depend on your unique case and the type of orthodontic treatment you require to achieve your desired results. At Riverheart Dentistry, we strive to make our services as affordable and accessible as possible. We offer convenient financing options to help you get the high-quality care you deserve.

Veneers

What kind of veneers can I get?

We offer high-quality veneers made from porcelain. Each material is chosen for its strength, durability, and lifelike appearance. Porcelain closely matches the natural qualities of enamel to ensure a beautiful smile makeover.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are a permanent cosmetic procedure. They need a thin layer of enamel to be removed from your teeth prior to placement and are bonded to the remaining tooth structure. For this reason, only a trained dental professional can make repairs or adjustments to your veneers.

How long do veneers last?

The lifespan of your veneer depends on the type you choose, and your veneers will eventually need to be repaired or replaced just like any other dental work. A set of porcelain veneers typically lasts 15 years or more, which is why we provide this option to our patients looking for lasting results.

Do veneers hurt?

Generally, no. Veneers are a minimally invasive treatment option and doesn’t cause pain. Patients who receive 2-4 veneers typically experience no discomfort during their treatment experience. However, patients who receive eight or more veneers may experience some sensitivity or tenderness in their gums following their procedure. Your dentist will administer local anesthetic or sedation as needed to ensure your comfort.

How long does it take to get veneers?

On average, you can expect the process of getting your veneers to take 3-4 weeks. You’ll visit our office 2-3 times during this time, from your initial consultation to the final fitting and application.

Riverheart Family Dental is here to make you smile.