Frequently Asked Questions

How does the doctor keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials? Do you accept referrals? How can I ask the doctor questions directly? Crowns, veneers, on-lays, inlays and partials. Where can I learn more? I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit? What is smile analysis and smile design? I brush everyday, but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do? What different payment options do you provide? Do you accept my insurance?

How does the doctor keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Dr. Nivera takes many hours of continuing education classes each year, attending at least one seminar or program each month. She has attended workshops at the prestigious Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education and the Seattle Institute of Advanced Dental Education. To serve the all the needs of her patients, Dr. Nivera takes classes on a wide range of topics.

:: top

Do you accept referrals?

We welcome referrals and appreciate the trust and confidence that you show when you recommend our practice to your family, friends and neighbors.

:: top

How can I ask the doctor questions directly?

Dr. Nivera always wants her patients to feel free to talk with her. You can ask questions during your visits, or call the office if you have questions at other times. If Dr. Nivera can't take your call immediately, she'll return it as soon as possible.

:: top

Crowns, veneers, on-lays, inlays and partials. Where can I learn more? Just ask us! We have lots of educational information that will help you understand any of these procedures. You may also want to check out the Online Resources section of our web site for links to other helpful sites. :: top I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend? That's a difficult question to answer without looking at your particular situation. While we can use techniques such as bonding, crowns or veneers to straighten your front teeth without braces, that may not be the best choice. In some cases, braces-although more of a nuisance in the short term-may be healthier for your teeth. (And remember, today's braces don't have to be shiny metal in your mouth. There are many options that are more discrete.)

:: top

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

You'll be pleasantly surprised by the amount of time that Dr. Nivera spends with her patients, starting with the two-hour initial exam. You'll feel the difference in the level of personal service from the minute you walk into our office.

:: top

What is smile analysis and smile design?

They are the processes that Dr. Nivera uses to create a smile that's uniquely yours. Using digital photos and models, she will carefully study your teeth and gums in relation to your face to see what changes are appropriate. Then she'll make wax models to show you how your new smile will look.

:: top

I brush everyday, but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do?

Bad breath can have many causes, and not all of them are related to your teeth and gums. Sometimes your bad breath can stem from sources inside your body, like your gastrointestinal tract.

If you're having trouble with bad breath, we will check you carefully to find the source of the problem. If we rule out any dental-related reason, we'll refer you to an appropriate medical specialist for further diagnosis.

:: top

What different payment options do you provide?

You can pay with cash, by check or with a credit card. For more extensive dental work, we also offer low or no interest loans for extended periods.

:: top

Do you accept my insurance?

Although we're glad to coordinate your dental insurance and to fill out any necessary forms, we are not participants in any insurance plan. We ask that you pay for your treatment up front and submit your claim to your dental insurance so that any payment comes directly to you.

:: top