Answers to Your Most Common Questions
We’ve gathered the questions our patients ask most — covering insurance, costs, new patient visits, treatment options, and more. Browse the topics below to find what you’re looking for. If your question isn’t answered here, our team is always happy to help, so give our office a call and we’ll walk you through it.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We are in-network and work with the following dental insurance providers:
- MetLife PDP+
- GEHA Federal
- Lincoln Financial Group PPO
- Principal PPO
- Standard Insurance PPO
- Sun Life Financial PPO
- Cigna (most plans)
- Guardian PPO
- UnitedHealthcare PPO & Medicare Advantage plans
- Aetna PPO
We are happy to help maximize your insurance benefits and will file claims on your behalf for all completed treatment.
If you do not see your insurance listed, please call our office. We accept many out-of-network plans and can help verify your benefits before treatment.
Do you file insurance claims for patients?
Yes. Our office will gladly submit insurance claims for any completed treatment we provide.
If you have questions about coverage, benefits, deductibles, or claims, our team is here to assist you. Please call us at 850-478-8005 for support.
Do you see children?
Yes, we treat patients of all ages. We are happy to care for children and help them build positive, comfortable experiences with dental visits.
In some cases, based on a child’s individual needs, we may recommend a pediatric dental specialist. This recommendation helps ensure the best possible care and supports a positive long-term relationship with dental professionals.
What if I don't have dental insurance?
We understand that not everyone has traditional dental insurance. To help make care more affordable, we offer an In-House Dental Savings Plan designed specifically for patients without insurance.
This plan provides discounted rates on preventive and restorative services, helping make dental care more predictable and budget-friendly.
Families can save even more—when additional family members are added to the plan, we offer $50 off for each additional family member enrolled.
Contact our office to learn more about enrollment, plan benefits, and how much your family can save.
What is included in your new patient special?
We offer a New Patient Special for self-pay patients that includes:
- Comprehensive dental exam
- Full set of dental X-rays
Special Fee: $190
During this visit, our goal is to thoroughly evaluate your oral health, answer your questions, and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs, including a clear explanation of recommended treatment and associated fees.
Do you offer sedation or options for anxious patients?
Yes. We understand that dental visits can be stressful for some patients, and we offer sedation options on a case-by-case basis, including:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Halcion (oral sedation)
Our team will evaluate your medical history and level of anxiety to determine the safest and most appropriate option for your care.
What happens during my first visit?
Your first visit is focused on understanding your oral health and goals. We will:
- Perform a comprehensive exam
- Take necessary diagnostic X-rays
- Review your dental concerns
- Create a personalized treatment plan
- Provide a clear breakdown of recommended treatment and associated fees
We believe in transparency, so you will always know your options before moving forward with care.
How do I know what my treatment will cost?
After your exam, we will provide a detailed treatment plan that includes all recommended procedures and associated costs.
We will also review insurance estimates (if applicable) and discuss payment options, including our In-House Dental Savings Plan.
Can I call with insurance or billing questions?
Absolutely. Our team is happy to help you understand your insurance benefits, coverage, and payment options.
Please contact us at 850-478-8005, and we will gladly assist you.
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most patients should visit the dentist every six months for routine exams and professional cleanings. However, some patients with gum disease, a history of dental problems, or certain medical conditions may benefit from more frequent visits.
What services do you offer?
We provide a wide range of dental services, including:
- Preventive care and cleanings
- Comprehensive exams
- Digital X-rays
- Tooth-colored fillings
- Crowns and bridges
- Root canal treatment
- Extractions
- Dentures and partial dentures
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Dental implants
- Invisalign
- Emergency dental care
If you have questions about a specific treatment, please contact our office.
Do you accept emergency dental appointments?
Yes. We make every effort to see dental emergencies as quickly as possible.
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth, trauma, or another urgent dental issue, please call our office immediately.
What should I do if I have a toothache?
A toothache can indicate a variety of dental problems, including decay, infection, or injury.
Contact our office as soon as possible so we can evaluate the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Delaying care may allow the problem to worsen.
Do you offer payment plans or financing?
Yes. We understand that dental treatment is an investment in your health, and we believe financial concerns should not prevent you from receiving the care you need.
We offer several financing options, including three 0% financing plans with no down payment required for qualified applicants:
- Cherry Financing
- CareCredit®
- Harvesters Credit Union
Our team will be happy to review these options with you and help you select the financing solution that best fits your individual needs and budget.
Please contact our office for more information or assistance with the application process.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
Most routine dental cleaning appointments take approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Appointment times may vary depending on your oral health needs and whether additional treatment is required.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. We use modern digital X-ray technology, which significantly reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional film X-rays.
Dental X-rays are an important diagnostic tool that help detect issues that may not be visible during a clinical exam.
What if I haven't been to the dentist in years?
You’re not alone. Many patients have gone several years without dental care for a variety of reasons.
Our team provides a welcoming, judgment-free environment and will focus on helping you move forward with a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Do you offer cosmetic dentistry?
Yes. We offer cosmetic treatment options designed to improve the appearance of your smile.
Depending on your goals, treatment options may include teeth whitening, bonding, crowns, veneers, or other cosmetic procedures. We will discuss the best options during your consultation.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring:
- A photo ID
- Your dental insurance card (if applicable)
- A list of current medications
- Any relevant medical information
Arriving a few minutes early can help ensure a smooth check-in process.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Scheduling an appointment is easy.
Call our office at 850-750-1345, and one of our team members will help you find a convenient appointment time.
We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
Do you offer same-day crowns?
Yes. In most cases, we offer same-day crowns using our advanced CEREC® technology.
This state-of-the-art system allows our providers to prepare your tooth, digitally design your crown, and mill your final restoration right here in our office—all during a single appointment. Unlike traditional crowns that often require multiple visits and a temporary crown, CEREC technology allows many patients to leave with their permanent crown the very same day.
During your exam, we will determine whether a same-day crown is the best option for your specific needs.
Do you place dental implants?
Yes. Dr. LeBlanc places dental implants and can help determine whether implant treatment is right for you.
During your initial consultation, we will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, explain the implant process, and review the fees associated with your personalized treatment plan. Our goal is to ensure you fully understand your options before moving forward with treatment.
What is periodontal (gum disease) treatment?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection and inflammation of the tissues that support your teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone.
Gum disease typically develops when plaque and bacteria accumulate around the teeth and beneath the gumline. If left untreated, it can progress from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to more advanced stages that may result in bone loss, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
Periodontal treatment is designed to remove harmful bacteria, reduce inflammation, and help preserve the health of your gums and supporting bone. Treatment recommendations vary based on the severity of the condition and each patient’s individual needs.
What are veneers, and am I a candidate?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve the appearance of a smile. They can be used to address concerns such as discoloration, chips, gaps, uneven tooth shape, or minor alignment issues.
Whether veneers are the right option for you is determined on a case-by-case basis. Every treatment plan is customized to the individual patient, taking into account oral health, cosmetic goals, lifestyle factors, and desired outcomes.
During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and recommend the treatment options that best help you achieve the smile you want.
What should I do if I break a tooth?
If you break, chip, or crack a tooth, contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an evaluation.
Prompt treatment can often prevent additional damage and improve treatment outcomes.
Can you help with dentures or partial dentures?
Yes. Our office provides both full dentures and partial dentures to help replace missing teeth and restore function, appearance, and confidence.
Do you use digital X-rays and intraoral scanning technology?
Yes. We utilize modern dental technology to provide efficient, comfortable, and accurate care, including digital X-rays and full-mouth scanning technology.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs include:
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Pus around the gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation as early treatment can help prevent more serious complications.
Why do I need a deep cleaning instead of a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is recommended when gum disease has developed below the gumline.
Deep cleanings help remove bacteria and buildup from beneath the gums, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.
How can I whiten my teeth safely?
Professional teeth whitening is one of the safest and most effective ways to brighten your smile. We can discuss take-home whitening options and recommend the best solution based on your goals.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by worn enamel, exposed tooth roots, cavities, cracked teeth, gum recession, or teeth grinding.
If you’re experiencing sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, we recommend scheduling an exam so we can determine the cause and recommend treatment.
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, many crowns can last 10–15 years or longer. Longevity depends on oral hygiene habits, bite forces, and overall oral health.
What are my options for replacing missing teeth?
Depending on your individual needs, options may include:
- Dental implants
- Bridges
- Partial dentures
- Full dentures
We will discuss the advantages of each option and help determine which solution best fits your needs and budget.
How do dental implants compare to dentures?
Dental implants are permanently anchored into the jawbone and function much like natural teeth. Dentures are removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth.
Both options have advantages, and the best choice depends on your oral health, goals, and budget. We will review all available options during your consultation.
What causes bad breath and how can it be treated?
Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth, certain foods, or underlying health conditions.
Our team can help identify the cause and recommend treatment options to improve your oral health and freshen your breath.
How often should children see a dentist?
Children should generally visit the dentist every six months for exams and cleanings. Regular visits help monitor growth and development, prevent cavities, and establish healthy oral hygiene habits early in life.
Can I transfer my X-rays from my old dentist? Will I still need new X-rays taken, and will I have to pay for them?
Yes, we can accept digital X-rays from your previous dental office, as long as they are current and of diagnostic quality.
In some cases, our providers may need to retake certain X-rays to obtain clearer images for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. If additional X-rays are needed because the existing images are unclear or not diagnostic, there is no charge to the patient.
However, if we are unable to obtain X-rays from your previous dentist, we will need to take new X-rays as part of establishing you as a new patient. In this situation, the cost of the new patient X-rays would be the patient’s responsibility.