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

Dr. Johnessee is committed to excellence in care and devotes time each year to continuing not only his own education, but the professional development of his staff through additional courses. His areas of particular interest focus on cosmetic and esthetic dentistry, orthodontics, implant reconstruction and family practice. In order to keep up with the latest advancements in dentistry, he belongs to the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Academy of Functional Orthodontists, Academy of Laser Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, Pennsylvania Dental Association and York County Dental Association.

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What do I do if I have an emergency?

We hope you will never experience a dental emergency, but, given the chance that you might, we are always available to help you. If you are having pain or experiencing an emergency, such as a fractured front tooth, during office hours, please call us immediately so we may schedule the best available time for you. Should an emergency occur after hours, we can be reached 24 hours a day. Dr. Johnessee is always on call. If it is necessary to leave a message, please do so and he will return your call. When the office is closed due to continuing education or vacation, there will always be another office on call to handle your emergency until we return. We will do everything possible to give you highest priority and immediately treat the cause of the problem.

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What if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

As your family dentist, Dr. Johnessee is always here for you. Emergencies happen at the worst times – often after our office is closed. If you find yourself in a dental emergency, just call our main number for instructions on how to contact Dr. Johnessee after hours.

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What payment options you provide?

We want you to have the best service possible, so we're committed to helping you leverage all available means for payment. You may pay by check, cash, Visa, MasterCard or Debit Cards. We also work with Wells Fargo and CareCredit for your convenience. Both of these patient financing organizations provide 0% financing for up to one year for our patients. Insurance forms will be submitted by our office on your behalf. Other payment arrangements can be made through our financial coordinator depending on your specific treatment and situation.

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How can I ask Dr. Johnessee questions directly?

Dr. Johnessee is always on call, so just contact the office when you need him. You may even email the office directly at questions@jstooth.com.

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How can I safely whiten my teeth?

The safest and most efficient method to whiten teeth involves an at-home system using thin, comfortable custom-made trays. Dramatic whitening can occur in as little as seven days with minimal sensitivity using new formulations. Whitening seems simple enough, but these are chemicals that can have adverse effects if used improperly. So, it is important our staff is involved in your efforts.

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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

In the last few years, patient protection and asepsis have become an issue of public concern. With the discovery of the AIDS (HIV) Virus and the continuing problem with Hepatitis-B, it has become necessary for health care facilities to constantly upgrade the techniques of sterilization and disinfection products to provide you with maximum protection. In our office, your safety is our highest priority. Throughout the day, we perform a number of sterilization procedures for your protection including:

• Covering or disinfecting all treatment surfaces (i.e.: countertops, chair surfaces, lights, x-ray machines, trays) with the most effective and safest products available both before and after each patient appointment.
• Following a number of standard sterilization procedures with all instruments. All instruments are thoroughly rinsed in an ultrasonic cleaner before being sterilized in an autoclave. The autoclave runs for 20 minutes and reaches a temperature of 425 degrees, thereby destroying any bacteria, spores or viruses. All hand pieces are sterilized after each use in the same manner. Disposable items, such as suction and prophylaxis equipment, are used whenever possible, and our autoclave is monitored regularly to ensure its effectiveness.
• Using masks, safety glasses, protective clothing and new gloves for each patient. All laundry is done on our premises and all team members are trained in proper infection control, have been vaccinated against Hepatitis-B, adhere to OSHA guidelines and have received certification in CPR.

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding infection control and give you a tour of our sterilization area. Your safety is of utmost importance to us!

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My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Bleeding gums may be caused by a toothbrush with hard bristles, damaging pressure while brushing teeth, or by gum disease. If you experience bleeding when you brush, or gum tenderness, redness, or swelling, we want to see you immediately. Gum disease often goes undetected in early stages, when conservative treatment can alleviate the condition. If it escalates, gum disease can cause gum, bone, and tooth loss, as well as overall health complications.

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What are Mini Dental Implants?

MDI, or Mini Dental Implants, are small, surgically implanted screws that attach to the jawbone. These small screws anchor dentures in place, so you won't have to use adhesives or worry about slippage. Mini dental implants can be placed in a single office visit!

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Do veneers look natural?

Absolutely. Modern dental materials mimic natural tooth enamel in color, shape, texture, and reflectivity, so porcelain veneers look completely natural!

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Do you accept my insurance plan?

We do not accept any insurance plans. We do however submit all claims on behalf of our patients.. We can also help you with payment options, such as credit card payment and third party financing options.

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