Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t your office offer silver (amalgam) fillings?
When we restore teeth, we prioritize strength, longevity, and aesthetics. Advancements in technology and materials have made silver mercury fillings a thing of the past. We conserve tooth structure by using bonding technology that strengthens, instead of weakening tooth structure like silver amalgam does. This reduces the need for crowns or caps.
Why do I need x-rays?
X-rays help the dentist detect several conditions not visible otherwise:
Tooth decay between teeth or below existing fillings
Infections like dental abscesses or cysts
Impacted teeth
The extent of periodontal (gum) decay
Some types of tumors
The effects of oral trauma
Developmental abnormalities, like extra teeth or teeth that never developed
What type of x-rays does your office use?
Our office exclusively uses digital x-ray imaging. With this technology, there is very little exposure to radiation. The digital x-rays are quickly shown on a computer screen with almost no wait time. Digital x-rays are also environmentally friendly, since they do not require any film or the chemicals to process it! In addition to routine bitewings and periapicals, our office is equipped with 3-D panoramic imaging, which is akin to a “mini CT-scan.”
Does your office accept my insurance or do I have to pay each visit?
Although we are not a participating provider with any insurance, and do require full payment on the day of service, we will always file your insurance claim for you so that you can be reimbursed the maximum benefit from your particular dental plan. Most patients receive their payments within 2-3 weeks. We will gladly help contact your insurance company if you fail to receive payment in a timely manner (generally advised to wait 30 days).
If you have a treatment plan consisting of major restorations, we can send for a pre-treatment estimate of benefits from your plan. With such an estimate in hand, when allowed by your particular plan, we then only ask for the non-covered amount at the restoration appointment.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Care Credit, personal checks, or cash for payment of services rendered.
As a new patient, will my teeth be cleaned my first visit?
We do prefer to bring you into our office as a new patient with a comprehensive oral exam, cleaning, and x-rays; however, if you have an urgent dental need, we are happy to provide a limited oral evaluation along with the needed treatment, as time allows.
We recommend a routine dental exam and cleaning at least every six months, unless we detect periodontal disease - with periodontal disease there may be a need to have you return for cleanings more frequently (i.e. every 3-4 months) to keep your gums healthy.
Do you see children?
Yes! It is recommended that they begin seeing the dentist at 3 years of age, in an introductory-type visit (“a happy visit”) to become familiar with the general setting; or they may watch their family member during his/her visit.
Will I see Dr. Skladany during my cleaning visit?
Yes, after the hygienist has cleaned your teeth and obtained any necessary x-rays/images, the dentist will examine your teeth and review your x-rays with you. He will discuss with you and your hygienist any findings. If further treatment is needed, you will be given a copy of your treatment plan prior to you leaving.
Is your office accessible for wheelchair-bound patients?
Yes, our entrance, exam rooms, and restroom are all wheelchair accessible.
Is there a fee if I miss my appointment?
Yes - your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you, our policy requires a 24-business-hour cancellation notice to avoid an office service charge.
How long has the dentist been in practice?
Dr. Skladany has been in practice since 1995. His first office was located at 92 Aviemore Drive, Pinehurst, N.C., and in 2004 he moved into his current office (which he designed!), located at 10 Memorial Drive - just off of 15-501, directly across from Pinehurst Trace.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes, Dr. Skladany is always happy to welcome new patients, including emergency visits.
When can I be seen?
Our hours of operation include Monday through Thursday, 8am - 12pm and 1pm - 5pm. You are able to leave a message with the office after hours.