Dr. Jenkins and his staff help answer frequently asked questions from their patients at Designing Smiles.

If there are any questions that our website does not answer, please call The Designing Smiles' office.

I have always feared going to the dentist. What does Designing Smiles do to help patients like me?
At Designing Smiles, we take special pride in people like you. We feel that taking the time to help you relax, explaining what we will be doing during your appointment, and completing the treatment in an extremely comfortable yet timely manner will make the dental office a place to actually enjoy.

My biggest fear has always been related to “shots”. How does Designing Smiles handle patients with my same fear?
Dr. Jenkins has always felt a true connection with patients like you, which is why we use several customized techniques that have allowed patients like you to experience truly comfortable injections. We believe this will lead to a much-improved, stress-free dental experience.

My jaws get tired during treatment. Is there anything that can help me with this uncomfortable feeling?
There are a number of helpful aids that we use to assist our patients with this common problem. No one technique works for every patient, which is why we offer a multitude of options, and one of which is sure to work for you. Please inform our staff about your previous experiences with your jaw, and they will assess which technique to use on you.

I know the dentistry I need may stretch my budget. Do you offer payment plans to make this investment manageable?
We certainly understand that excellent dentistry does come as an expense, but we are committed to having payment options available for all of our customers. We accept all of the traditional methods of payment, including most major credit cards. In addition, we provide the option of several extended payment plans that we are happy to discuss individually.

I’ve seen people with crowns and veneers that make their teeth look fake. What does Dr. Jenkins do to prevent that “fake” look?
As with any form of art, there are some artists’ work that is outstanding, and others that are not as exceptional. In dentistry, patients need not only a great dentist and dental team, but also a very talented and experienced lab partner. At Designing Smiles, we are committed to ensuring the finest dental labs and materials to make your smile our best product. It usually means we spend more for our lab… but for a perfect smile on our patients, it is worth it.

How long will my “new smile” last?
Dr. Jenkins can tell you from experience that a new smile can last a very long time! Certainly, variables, such as nutritional habits, home care, and lifestyle can play a role in the longevity of the porcelain restorations. It is rare, however, to have to replace the entire case should there be a problem with one or two teeth. Dr. Jenkins will give you the best tips and advice to help the durability of your smiles, and keep it looking “new” for many years.

My spouse snores at night. Is it true that a dental appliance can help my spouse (and I) sleep at night?
Great question… Yes, there are a multitude of oral appliances that may help in this situation, BUT there could be some serious problems associated with this snoring. It would be wise to have a sleep study done to rule out Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Once that is determined, we can help you find the right appliance for your sleeping issues, whether it is OSA or not.

Is the CPAP the only treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
There are actually several treatment options for OSA. Traditionally, surgery of the soft palate is not a fun experience, which is why the use of an oral appliance has risen in popularity. Designing Smiles offers an oral appliance that moves the lower jaw forward; therefore, the tongue is moved out of the airway and air is allowed to pass more freely.

HELPFUL LINKS
Please take advantage of the links below to helpful resources from the world of dentistry.

Contact Designing Smiles with any of your questions
or to schedule an appointment.