FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Appointment FAQs
What services do you provide?
We offer preventative dental care, including exams, x-rays, cavity fillings, and cleanings. We also offer cosmetic dental procedures such as crowns, veneers, and professional teeth whitening. If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, we offer treatment for that, as well as sleep apnea treatment.
Are you currently accepting new patients?
Yes! Smile New Braunfels is currently accepting new patients at our office in New Braunfels.
Do you have flexible and convenient appointment availability?
We pride ourselves on providing flexible and convenient appointment times for our patients. We can typically get you scheduled for an appointment within a week, if not sooner.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (830) 629-8011 during business hours. You can also request a callback and our team will get in touch with you at your preferred time.
Where is your office located?
Our office is conveniently located at 221 Hunters Village in New Braunfels. We are just off Highway 46 behind the Hunter’s Creek Shops.
Do you take dental insurance?
Yes, we accept many different types of dental insurance. Click here to see a list of dental plans Smile New Braunfels is considered "In Network" for. If your plan is not listed, we can still accept and are able to file claims for any "PPO" dental plan, although Smile New Braunfels would be considered an "Out of Network" provider, and coverage may vary. For the most updated coverage information, please call and speak to our front desk staff.
Do I need to arrive early for my first appointment?
Yes. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out any remaining patient forms.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:
Dental Insurance Card (if applicable)
Identification such as Driver's License, Military ID or State ID
How long will my first appointment last?
It varies, but please plan on 1 to 1.5 hours for the first visit. We will do our best to minimize your waiting time prior to your appointment.
Do I have to have X-rays taken?
We recommend having x-rays taken at least twice a year. Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be detected with just an oral examination. An X-ray examination may reveal:
small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
infections in the bone
periodontal (gum) disease
abscesses or cysts
developmental abnormalities
some types of tumors
Identifying and treating dental issues as early as possible can save you time, money and potentially pain and discomfort in the long run. Your dentist will evaluate your ongoing need for X-rays based on your medical history, your oral examination, and any stated issues. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.
Will information about cost be presented to me before treatment is scheduled?
Absolutely. We will go over all treatment options, costs, and payment options prior to performing any treatment or procedures.
General Dental FAQs
What is a Dentist?
A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Your dentist has completed at least eight years of schooling, and received either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree, or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree. Dr. Jim Peck received his DDS from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas.
Why do you recommend that I see the dentist twice a year?
Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:
Helps prevent tooth decay
Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
Prevents bad breath – brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly will help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath
Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence
Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks, and tobacco
Strengthens your teeth so that you can enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for the rest of your life!
My Teeth Feel Fine. Do I Still Need To See A Dentist?
Even if your teeth feel fine, it's still important to visit the dentist regularly because there may be issues you aren’t aware of yet. Many dental issues take time to progress to the point you notice them, but could have been prevented or managed with early detection. Additionally, dental care is also designed to improve your smile’s appearance. You don’t have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth. We offer many treatment choices that can help you get the smile you want, including:
Fillings that look like natural teeth
Veneers and Crowns
Implant Restorations
Full smile makeovers
What are cavity-fighting sealants?
The American Dental Association cites sealants as an effective weapon in the arsenal against tooth decay. Sealants are a thin coating painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting your teeth against decay-causing bacteria.
Sealants have proven effective with both adults and children, but are most commonly used with children.
I have dentures. Is it necessary for me to still see my dentist?
Visits to the dentist include more than just "checking teeth." While patients who wear dentures no longer have to worry about dental decay, they may have concerns with ill fitting appliances or mouth sores to name a few. Annual visits to the dentist (or sooner if soreness is present) is recommended. During these visits, an oral cancer screening and head and neck exam will be performed as well as an evaluation of the fit or need for replacement of the existing appliances. Regular visits can help you to avoid more complicated problems down the road.