Patient Information
Patient Information In Faribault, MN
Please print off our Welcome Form in preparation for you visit to The Dentist's House
Welcome to The Dentist's House , where we are pleased to offer high quality dentistry and professional care for you and your family. Dr. Mark Ohlsen, and his professional team are prepared to help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. We are proud to offer a broad range of dental services in a friendly, relaxing environment. We are confident you will feel comfortable with our highly trained team of dental professionals and receive the service you desire. We would like to thank you for visiting our website and please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
Insurance
If you have dental benefits here are some things you should know. At The Dentist's House we believe that you deserve the best care. We will present you a number of different treatment options tailored to your personal situation. Each year we provide outstanding care to hundreds of patients. Some have dental benefits but most do not. If you have dental benefits, here are some important things you should know:
- Your dental benefits are based upon a contract made between your employer and an employee benefits company. If you have questions regarding your dental benefits please contact your employer or the benefits company directly.
- Dental benefits differ greatly from medical benefits. In 1959, most dental benefit plans had a yearly maximum cap of $1,000. You will be surprised to know today that the average dental benefit plan has a yearly maximum cap of $1,000. There has been no significant increase in the yearly maximum cap in over 40 years. However, there have been significant increases in your premiums. Dental benefit plans may not pay for all of your dental care. It has always been meant to assist you.
- Many people receive notification from their insurance company that dental fees are "above usual and customary". A dental benefits company determines their reimbursement level by surveying a geographical area, calculation the average fee, then determines that 80% of the average fee is customary. Included in this survey are discount dental clinics and managed care facilities, which have severely reduced dental fees that bring down the average. Any doctor in private practice will have fees that dental benefits companies define as "higher than usual and customary".
- Many dental benefit plans tell their participants that they will be covered "up to 80% or 100%", but do not clearly specify the plan fee schedule allowance, annual maximum or limitations. It is more realistic to expect dental benefit plans to cover 25% to 40% of dental services. Remember that the amount a plan reimburses is determined by how much your employer has paid for your dental benefit plan. If you have dental benefits, we will, as a courtesy to you, process your insurance benefits in our office. Excellent dental care is available with or without dental benefits. We hope that you chose the best that dentistry has to offer.
Patient Financial Policy
Thank you for choosing The Dentist's House for your family's dental needs. We are committed to providing you with affordable and excellent dental care. Your trust is very important to us so our goal is to make sure you fully understand your treatment needs and financial responsibility before treatment begins. We will make every effort to work with you to ensure that your dental needs can be met.
Good communication is an essential part of sound relationship. Therefore, it is the policy of this office, following examination and consultation, to give you an estimate of the dentistry that has been discussed. This will enable you to make definite financial arrangements before any dentistry is started.
Good communication is an essential part of sound relationship. Therefore, it is the policy of this office, following examination and consultation, to give you an estimate of the dentistry that has been discussed. This will enable you to make definite financial arrangements before any dentistry is started.
Payment:
Payment is expected at the time of service unless prior financial arrangements have been made. We offer several options:
- Payment in full at the time of service.
- Credit Card payment with Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express Payment due in full at the time of service. Due to credit card fees, cash courtesy adjustment does not apply.
- We also offer financing through Care Credit (financing subject to credit approval).
Patients with Dental Insurance:
We accept most major dental insurances. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you maximize dental benefits. We can help you verify your dental insurance coverage and benefits. Then we'll be able give you a closer estimate on your portion of the fee for each visit. The patient is responsible for the payment of all non-covered services, deductible, and co-payments at the time of service.
If you have questions about your payment options or insurance coverage, please call us at 507-334-7471.
If you have questions about your payment options or insurance coverage, please call us at 507-334-7471.
Dental Education
How to Properly Brush & Floss
Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though bi-annual professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and debris, excellent homecare methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle and prevent serious diseases.
Reasons why proper brushing and flossing are essential:
Prevention of tooth decay
Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and its treatment often requires complex dental procedures. Tooth decay occurs when the acids found in plaque erode the natural enamel found on the teeth. this phenomenon can easily be prevented by using proper home hygiene methods.
Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and its treatment often requires complex dental procedures. Tooth decay occurs when the acids found in plaque erode the natural enamel found on the teeth. this phenomenon can easily be prevented by using proper home hygiene methods.
Prevention of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is a serious, progressive condition which can cause tooth loss, gum recession and jawbone recession. Periodontal disease is caused by the toxins found in plaque, and can lead to serious health problems in other parts of the body. Removing plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surface of the tooth using a toothbrush, and from the inter dental areas using dental floss, is an excellent way to stave off periodontal problems.
Periodontal disease is a serious, progressive condition which can cause tooth loss, gum recession and jawbone recession. Periodontal disease is caused by the toxins found in plaque, and can lead to serious health problems in other parts of the body. Removing plaque and calculus (tartar) from the surface of the tooth using a toothbrush, and from the inter dental areas using dental floss, is an excellent way to stave off periodontal problems.
Prevention of Halitosis
Bad breath or halitosis is usually caused by old food particles on or between the teeth. These food particles can be removed with regular brushing and flossing; leaving the mouth healthier, and breath smelling fresher.
Bad breath or halitosis is usually caused by old food particles on or between the teeth. These food particles can be removed with regular brushing and flossing; leaving the mouth healthier, and breath smelling fresher.
Prevention of Staining
Staining or the yellowing of teeth can be caused by a wide variety of factors such as smoking, coffee and tea. The more regularly these staining agents are removed from the teeth using brushing and flossing techniques, the less likely it is that the stains will become permanent.
Staining or the yellowing of teeth can be caused by a wide variety of factors such as smoking, coffee and tea. The more regularly these staining agents are removed from the teeth using brushing and flossing techniques, the less likely it is that the stains will become permanent.
The Proper Way To Brush
The teeth should be brushed at least twice a day; ideally in the morning and before bed. The perfect toothbrush is small in size with soft, rounded-end bristles and no more than three months old. The head of the brush needs to be small enough to access all areas of the mouth, and the bristles should be soft enough so as not to cause undue damage to the gum tissue. The American Dental Association (ADA) has given electric toothbrushes their seal of approval; stating that those with rotating or oscillating heads are more effective that other toothbrushes.
Here is a basic guide to proper brushing:
- Place the toothbrush at a 45- degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
- Use small circular motions to gently brush the gum line and teeth.
- Do not scrub or apply too much pressure to the teeth, as this can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
- Brush every surface of every tooth, cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces. Place special emphasis on the strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
- Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
- Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food and debris.
The Proper Way to Floss
Flossing is a great way to remove plaque from the inter dental regions (between the teeth). Flossing is an especially important tool for preventing periodontal disease and limiting the depth of the gum pockets. The inter dental regions are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and should be cleansed with dental floss on a daily basis. The flavor and type of floss are unimportant; choose floss that will be easy and pleasant to use.
Here is a basic guide to proper flossing:
If you have any questions about the correct way to brush or floss, please ask your dentist or dental hygienist.
- Cut a piece of floss around 18 inches long.
- Wrap one end of the floss around the middle finger of the left hand and the other end around the middle finger of the right hand until the hands are 2-3 inches apart.
- Work the floss gently between the teeth and gumline.
- Curve the floss in a U-shape around each individual tooth and carefully slide it beneath the gum line.
- Carefully move the floss up and down several times to remove interdental plaque and debris.
- Do not pop the floss in and out between the teeth as this will inflame and cut the gums.
If you have any questions about the correct way to brush or floss, please ask your dentist or dental hygienist.
Post-Operative Care
Root Canal Therapy
You can expect soreness after a root canal procedure for a few days. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed so you do not irritate the area and also to ensure that the temporary restorative material properly sets. You will also need to take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you notice an increasing amount of pain or tenderness, a reaction to the medication, or the loss of the temporary restoration (filling) call your dentist immediately.
You can expect soreness after a root canal procedure for a few days. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed so you do not irritate the area and also to ensure that the temporary restorative material properly sets. You will also need to take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you notice an increasing amount of pain or tenderness, a reaction to the medication, or the loss of the temporary restoration (filling) call your dentist immediately.
Crowns and Bridges
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentists know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. you should brush and floss regularly.
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentists know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. you should brush and floss regularly.
White Fillings (bonding)
After the anesthesia wears off your teeth will likely be sensitive. you should avoid hot and cold food or drink for the next few days. After that initial period, your treated teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure that your fillings last for a long time.
After the anesthesia wears off your teeth will likely be sensitive. you should avoid hot and cold food or drink for the next few days. After that initial period, your treated teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure that your fillings last for a long time.
Scaling and Root Planing
After this procedure your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 tsp salt/8 oz water) 2-3 times a day. This will relieve the pain and cleanse the area. Brushing and flossing should be continued right after the procedure, but you should brush gently so that you do not further irritate the area. If you experience any swelling or stiffness in the area you can place a cold compress on the area and take some pain relieving medicine. Avoid any hard or chewy foods for 2-3 days after the surgery to ensure that the area heals correctly. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days contact your dentist.
After this procedure your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 tsp salt/8 oz water) 2-3 times a day. This will relieve the pain and cleanse the area. Brushing and flossing should be continued right after the procedure, but you should brush gently so that you do not further irritate the area. If you experience any swelling or stiffness in the area you can place a cold compress on the area and take some pain relieving medicine. Avoid any hard or chewy foods for 2-3 days after the surgery to ensure that the area heals correctly. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days contact your dentist.
Veneers
Before you receive your permanent veneer you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent veneer is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the veneer is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of you natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in anyway, you should let your dentist know. When brushing and flossing you should pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.
Before you receive your permanent veneer you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent veneer is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the veneer is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of you natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in anyway, you should let your dentist know. When brushing and flossing you should pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.
After Tooth Extractions
There are a number of reasons that your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. Some dental patients suffer from tooth decay; others need to remove teeth hindering orthodontic treatment, whereas various patients simply need wisdom teeth removal. While a tooth extraction can be a serious dental procedure, aftercare is just as critical as the procedure itself. As the dental patient, it is important to understand that pain and the risk of infection can be lessened with proper care.
There are a number of reasons that your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. Some dental patients suffer from tooth decay; others need to remove teeth hindering orthodontic treatment, whereas various patients simply need wisdom teeth removal. While a tooth extraction can be a serious dental procedure, aftercare is just as critical as the procedure itself. As the dental patient, it is important to understand that pain and the risk of infection can be lessened with proper care.
Care immediately following surgery:
- Keep pressure on the gauze pad that your doctor placed over the surgical area by gently biting down. Dampen the gauze sponge with water if it begins to dry out. Try to maintain constant pressure in intervals of 45-60 minutes, repeating as often as needed, or until bleeding lessens. Change the gauze as needed.
- Keep your head elevated and try to lower your activity level as much as possible.
- 48 hours after surgery, rinse mouth with warm salt water every 1-2 hours. Avoid using any mouthwash containing alcohol as it can irritate the wound.
- Keep your mouth clean by brushing areas around the surgical site, but be sure to avoid sutures. Touching the wounded area in any fashion should be prevented.
- Use ice packs to control swelling by placing them on facial areas near extraction.
- Take all prescribed medications accordingly. If any itching or swelling occurs, contact the practice immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Try to eat softer foods, preferably high in protein.
- Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Do not drink through a straw for the next 5-7 days.
- If you are a regular tobacco user refrain from smoking for the next 3-4 days as smoking increases your chances of getting a dry socket as well as an infection.
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Contact information
505 4th St. NW, Faribault MN 55021
Tel: 507-334-7471
Email: thedentistshouse@qwestoffice.net
Tel: 507-334-7471
Email: thedentistshouse@qwestoffice.net
Hours of Operation
- Mon, Tue, Thu
- -
- Wed, Fri
- -
- Sat - Sun
- Closed
