Do you have questions for our dental office about your treatment options or general queries about our practice? At Dupont Dental, we’re here to answer questions from our dental patients to explain more about their care. Explore dental FAQs for our Washington, DC office on this page to learn more.
Dental FAQs in Washington, DC
Are you looking for a new dental office but have questions? We’re here to help. Read answers to commonly asked questions that many patients have about our Dupont Circle area dental office.
Will insurance cover my dental care?
Most insurance covers general dental treatments like routine cleanings and X-rays. Restorative treatments can also be covered by insurance. Most cosmetic treatments aren’t covered because they’re often elective procedures. We work with patients to help them file insurance and understand their coverage.
Can you replace missing teeth?
Yes, Dr. Banks works with local oral surgeons to place dental implants. He can also create crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dr. Banks can help you whether you have a single lost tooth or all of your teeth missing, Dr. Banks will work closely with you to make sure your treatment is well-coordinated and provides the best possible results.
He wants to give you high-quality dental restorations that look natural and last for years. Replacing missing teeth not only helps your smile look complete again but also improves how you chew and speak. It also helps protect the health of your remaining teeth and gums.
What if I’m nervous about going to the dentist?
It’s normal to feel nervous about going to the dentist. At Dupont Dental, we do everything we can to help you feel calm and comfortable. Dr. Banks takes time to explain your treatment and answer your questions. If you’re still feeling anxious, we also offer sedation options to help you relax during your visit. You’re not alone. Many patients feel the same way, and we’re here to support you.
Do you offer cosmetic and restorative care?
Yes, Dr. Banks is a cosmetic dentist and helps patients make over their smiles with treatments that brighten and straighten teeth. He also works with oral surgeons and local specialists to provide restorations. Dr. Banks can replace missing teeth, address tooth damage, and treat gum disease. He also offers smile makeovers and full mouth reconstructions if you have multiple concerns.
How do I know which cosmetic treatment is right for me?
Choosing the right cosmetic dental treatment depends on your goals and the condition of your teeth. During your consultation, Dr. Banks will examine your smile and talk with you about what you want to change. Professional whitening might be best if you want to lift tooth stains.
Veneers or bonding treatment can help if you have chips, cracks, or small gaps between teeth. Dr. Banks will guide you through your options and explain what each treatment involves. Then he can help you choose a plan that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Is parking or public transportation available near your office?
Yes! Our dental office is conveniently located in Dupont Circle, close to Metro stations and bus lines. If you’re driving, several parking garages and street parking options are nearby for your convenience.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
Please get in touch with our office if you have a dental emergency. A dental emergency can be a sudden or severe dental problem that needs professional care. Depending on your emergency, you can care for your smile at home by taking pain medication and applying a cold compress.
If oral injuries require medical care, go to a hospital. We will provide dental care once you’re healed. Our office treats knocked-out teeth, lost fillings, broken restorations, and more.
Can I see the dentist if I’m pregnant?
Yes, you can and should see the dentist if you’re pregnant. Regular dental check-ups during pregnancy help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Hormone changes can increase your risk of gum problems, so you need to get your teeth cleaned and checked.
Just be sure to tell us you’re pregnant so we can take extra care during your visit. We’ll also avoid dental treatments that can be more risky during pregnancy. For example, Dr. Banks won’t recommend deep sedation or complex oral surgery for pregnant dental patients.
What dental technology do you use?
At Dupont Dental, we use diode lasers to treat gum disease and reshape soft tissue comfortably and safely. Laser treatment allows for more precise care, less bleeding, and faster healing compared to traditional methods.
Our digital radiographs (X-rays) provide clear and detailed images of your teeth and jaw. These X-rays use much less radiation than older film X-rays. They also help us see cavities, bone loss, and other hidden dental issues.
We also use intraoral cameras to take high-quality images inside your mouth. This technology helps Dr. Banks show you exactly what he sees so you can understand your dental health and treatment options.
How can I visit the dentist if I have sensitive teeth?
You can still visit the dentist if you have tooth sensitivity because we’ll help make your visit comfortable. Let us know about your sensitivity before your appointment. We can use gentle tools, special numbing products, and take extra care during cleanings or treatments. Dr. Banks can also recommend ways to treat your sensitivity at home. He may recommend that you use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth.
How often should I visit Dupont Dental each year?
Dr. Banks recommends that you visit his office twice a year, or every six months. He may recommend more frequent visits if you have chronic gum disease problems or active tooth decay. Getting deep cleanings every 3 to 4 months can help maintain your oral health and reduce the spread of harmful bacteria.
Ask Us Your Dental Questions
Do you have any more questions for our office? Call Dupont Dental today at (202) 946-4720. You can also schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Banks online. Dr. Banks is happy to help you learn more about your dental care.