Education

Frequently Asked Questions

Interesting Dental Articles

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Around the Web

  • American Dental Association: Patients and Consumers Guide contains information about many different dental procedures, information for parents, an online list of dentists, and advice about dental insurance.
  • About Cosmetic Dentistry - Learn about procedures, view photos and find out how you can beautify your smile with cosmetic dentistry.
  • The Wisdom Tooth offers dental hygiene tips for adults, parents and children.
  • American Academy of Periodontology - Information about gum disease.
  • Implant Dentistry Communications includes patient education about implant dentistry, clinical case reports and links to manufacturers of dental implants.
  • The NTI Suppression System provides information about migraine prevention and headache prevention: Worldwide over 500,000 people have been helped by the NTI-tss device.

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Professional Affiliations

  • ICOI – Dr. Spadafora is a Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
  • American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry – The AAPD is dedicated to improving and maintaining the oral health of onfants, children, adolescents, and persons with special health care needs.
  • Academy of General Dentistry – The AGD represents the interests of general dentists by fostering their continued proficiency through dental education. Dr. Spadafora is a Master in the AGD.
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry - As a nonexclusive organization, AAID promotes the prosthetic and surgical aspects, with an individual and team approach, to implant dentistry.
  • The Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Studies – This organization is dedicated to teaching the principles and skills necessary for the successful practice of complete, quality, predictable dentistry with primary concentration on occlusion and the TMJ.
  • Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation - The DOCS mission is to provide scientific and professional education in conscious sedation for dental practices, so they may create a safe and welcoming dental experience to the overwhelming masses of people not in the system who avoid seeking care due to fear. Bridging the gap between technology & patient comfort!
  • Pennsylvania Academy of General Dentistry (PAGD) - The PAGD is the Pennsylvania constituent of the Academy of General Dentistry. They take pride in offering high quality, innovative programs for our members and for sharing the benefits of our experience with the Academy and with other state constituents.

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Product Specific

  • Zoom!™ - Access information on the Zoom! Chairside Whitening System and the new Zoom! Take-Home Whitening System. This site will help you understand the outstanding results delivered by both Zoom! Systems - from 8 to 12 shades whiter!
  • Rota-dent® has patented microfilament brush tips designed to reach underneath the gum line and in-between the teeth. It is clinically proven to reduce harmful bacteria beyond the brush tip in periodontal pockets.
  • NiteWhite® and DayWhite® systems safely bleach teeth to lighten discoloration caused by food, coffee, tobacco, aging, and other factors.
  • BIOLASE – This company develops and markets advanced medical and dental laser products, including specialized biomaterials for medical and dental specialties.
  • Invisalign straightens your teeth with clear, invisible braces. Having a confident smile can change everything. And Invisalign makes the decision easy, because you can get a stunning smile without most people even noticing you're going through treatment.

Financial Partners

  • CareCredit® is a reputable name in patient financing. We work with CareCredit to provide patient financing for dental treatment of $300 and up. For a limited time only, we are offering for interest-free options 18 and 24 months to qualified applicants.

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Answers to FAQs

How does Dr. Spadafora keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Dr. Dale Spadafora is one of the few dentists in the country who has achieved Mastership status with the Academy of General Dentistry and Fellowship status with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Achieving Mastership is a professional designation within the Academy of General Dentistry and reflects a general dentist's ongoing commitment to provide quality care through continuing education. Fewer than one percent of dentists in the nation have become a Master. A member achieving this distinction has completed a challenging course of hands-on study in 16 dental disciplines. Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD), is the highest distinction a member can achieve through their continuing education program.

I really do not like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?

We understand some people are afraid of going to the dentist. Whether it was a bad experience as a child or some other issue that causes your stress, fear can make it difficult to maintain a healthy smile. Without professional dental maintenance and restorations, as needed, oral health can deteriorate to a critical stage, and that is why we are so concerned. If you've postponed dentistry because of fear, sedation dentistry may change how you feel about dental visits.

Dr. Spadafora can give you a pill to swallow in the privacy of your home, before your visit. The sedative will take effect in less than an hour. Someone you trust should drive you to the office and help you walk in. You will be awake, but a little light-headed. After your procedure, you will find that you won't remember very much, even though you'll feel fine. A responsible adult should take you home and keep an eye on you for the next few hours. In the evening, Dr. Spadafora will call you to make sure you’re doing well.

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Do you accept referrals?

Of course we do! There is no greater compliment for our practice than a personal referral from one of our patients. We greatly appreciate your trust and confidence in our office. Remember, everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile, so tell your friends and family about our practice.

How do I know when it's time for a checkup?

We'll let you know. Usually we schedule your next appointment at the end of every visit, then we will send you a reminder, and call, text, or email you. If you want to schedule an appointment, just call us at (724) 342-7395. We understand your time is important and we will make an effort to schedule appointments that fit with your personal schedule. Timeliness is extremely important to us, and we make every effort to see you on time. In consideration of everyone, we ask you to give us a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to change your appointment time.

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What payment options do you provide?

Treatment costs vary depending upon the complexity of the procedure. We are sensitive to financial obligations, and offer flexible payment plans. We will work with your insurance company to help you obtain the maximum benefit. We also accept credit cards, cash, personal checks, and financing through CareCredit®. We encourage you to discuss your financial concerns with our business manager.

I want my front teeth to look better, but I don't want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

Dr. Spadafora often recommends instant orthodontics. For slightly crooked or unevenly worn teeth, a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers can transform a smile. Veneers are thin, handcrafted restorations of porcelain bonded to front teeth. Stain resistant and durable, veneers are designed individually to complement a patient’s skin tone, face shape, features, and personality.

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How can I safely whiten my teeth?

Dr. Spadafora recommends professional take-home whitening kits, which will dramatically brighten your smile in about two weeks. At your visit, he will evaluate the potential for whitening your teeth, based on your current color and the causes of discoloration. Want quick results? With Zoom!™ Whitening, we can brighten your smile in about an hour in our office.

Can you show me what my smile can look like ahead of time with imaging software?

Yes, and in fact, the new picture of your smile will really show you what your signature smile can look like. We will take a digital photograph of your current smile and talk to you about cosmetic dentistry procedures that suit your needs. At the next appointment, we will show you a computer simulation of completed cosmetic work. You can take your new photograph home and talk about the possibilities with family and friends. Patients love having the opportunity to think about this big, yet exciting, step.

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What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?

We focus on you. This means that you’ll receive contemporary dental care, access to cutting-edge technology, and excellent service. Dr. Spadafora is a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry and a Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. You can rest assured that you are in expert hands in our office. We use the latest techniques, materials, and technology for optimal esthetic results and lasting dental work. All of the breakthroughs in dentistry allow us to provide you with faster, more comfortable dentistry. Dr. Spadafora provides oral conscious sedation for nervous patients or those who don’t respond well to traditional anesthesia.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

We accept many plans. However, we don't participate in some of them because of restrictions. The insurance industry sometimes makes it difficult for us to maintain excellence while participating as a provider. Our philosophy does not allow the insurance industry to dictate the quality of care and level of service we provide to our patients. In fact, we're proud to be setting standards of excellence in dentistry. We are well-versed in the latest coverage trends, and are more than happy to discuss the particulars of your plan with you prior to any treatments you may undergo.

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What is Smile Analysis?

A smile analysis is simply a consultation appointment in which Dr. Spadafora will spend unrushed time with you to determine the proper esthetics of your smile and how it relates to your facial symmetry. Each person has a unique "perfect" smile, one that is proportional and flattering. With a smile analysis—and digital imaging—Dr. Spadafora can show you what your ideal smile would look like.

What is Smile Design?

Smile design involves creating the new smile we discussed together during your smile analysis. A variety of procedures are available to create your new smile, from porcelain veneers and tooth whitening to total smile rejuvenation. Some of our patients look ten years younger after a smile makeover, and the positive psychological impact is astounding. Dr. Spadafora will be happy to talk to you about the possibilities. If you've been thinking about redesigning your smile, now is the time to set your dream into action.

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