Frequently Asked Questions
Why do regular dental visits matter?
At Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, routine exams and cleanings allow our team to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be addressed with brushing and flossing alone. These visits also give your dentist a chance to catch early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns before they become more complex or costly to treat.
Regular checkups also support your overall health and long-term smile. Many dental conditions develop quietly, without pain or obvious symptoms, so consistent visits help ensure nothing is missed. Preventive care is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
What are some signs I should see a dentist?
If you’re experiencing changes in your oral health, it may be time to schedule a dental visit. At Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, we encourage patients to pay attention to early warning signs such as tooth pain or sensitivity, bleeding or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, jaw discomfort, or difficulty chewing.
Even mild or occasional symptoms can point to underlying concerns like cavities, gum disease, or infection. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, a routine exam is also a great way to stay ahead of potential issues—often before symptoms are noticeable.
Do I need a referral?
You typically do not need a referral to schedule an appointment with Winston-Salem Dental Specialists. Patients are welcome to contact our office directly to request an appointment for consultation or treatment.
In some cases, patients may be referred by a general dentist for specialized care such as dental implants, gum disease treatment, or oral surgery needs—but a referral is not required to be seen. If you’re unsure, our team is happy to help you determine the best next step when you call or contact the office.
Can I still see my regular dentist?
Yes—you absolutely can.
At Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, many patients continue seeing their general dentist while also receiving specialized care from our office. We often work in coordination with your regular dentist to ensure your treatment plan is seamless and fully supported from start to finish.
Your general dentist can continue routine cleanings and exams, while our team focuses on more advanced needs such as implants, gum disease treatment, or restorative procedures when needed. This collaborative approach helps ensure you receive comprehensive, well-rounded dental care.
I'm not having any symptoms. Do I need to see a Dentist?
Even if you’re not experiencing any symptoms, it’s still important to maintain regular dental visits with Winston-Salem Dental Specialists.
Many dental issues—such as cavities, gum disease, or early infection—can develop without pain or noticeable signs. Routine exams and cleanings help catch these problems early, when they’re easier to treat and less likely to become more serious.
Preventive care is one of the best ways to protect your long-term oral health and keep your smile healthy, comfortable, and looking its best.
What can I expect during a dental checkup?
During a dental checkup at Winston-Salem Dental Specialists, you can expect a comfortable, routine visit focused on maintaining your oral health.
Your appointment will include a general evaluation of your teeth, gums, and overall mouth health. The dentist will take time to assess your needs, address any concerns you may have, and recommend next steps if any treatment or preventive care is needed.
The goal of every visit is to help you stay ahead of potential issues and keep your smile healthy long-term.
How often do I have to go to the dentist?
Most patients should visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine exams and cleanings.
However, the ideal schedule can vary based on your individual oral health needs. Some patients may benefit from more frequent visits if they have gum disease, a history of dental concerns, or other ongoing issues, while others with excellent oral health may stay on a standard preventive schedule.
Your dentist will recommend the timing that best supports your long-term oral health and helps prevent problems before they start.
How do I find a Dentist?
A good way to find a dentist is to start by looking for a practice that is convenient for your location, accepts your insurance (if applicable), and offers the services you may need. Online reviews, recommendations from family or friends, and a practice’s website can also help you get a sense of their experience and patient care.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can call the office or request an appointment online to ask questions and see if it feels like a good fit. Many dental offices are happy to walk you through what to expect and help you get scheduled for a first visit.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
When choosing a dentist, it’s important to find a practice that makes you feel comfortable and confident in your care. Look for experience, positive patient reviews, and a wide range of services so you can receive both routine and specialized treatment in one place if needed.
It’s also helpful to consider things like office location, scheduling availability, and whether the team takes time to listen to your concerns and explain your options clearly. A good dentist should focus on both your immediate needs and your long-term oral health, helping you maintain a healthy smile over time.
What's the difference between DDS and DMD?
A DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are essentially the same degree. Both represent dentists who have completed the same education, training, and licensing requirements.
The difference is simply in the name of the degree, which depends on the dental school the dentist attended. Some schools award a DDS, while others award a DMD—but the curriculum, clinical training, and qualifications are identical.
How can I maintain a healthy smile with my dentist's help?
Maintaining a healthy smile is a partnership between you and your dentist at Winston-Salem Dental Specialists. Regular dental visits help catch issues early and keep your teeth and gums in good condition, while professional cleanings remove buildup that daily brushing and flossing can’t reach.
At home, good oral hygiene habits—like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining a balanced diet—play a key role in your long-term dental health. Staying consistent with both home care and routine dental checkups is one of the best ways to protect your smile and prevent future problems.
Got a question?
No problem.
We will schedule your appointment with Winston-Salem Dental Specialists as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
We value your time and do everything we can to stay on schedule and minimize your wait. While in our office, please enjoy your stay and have a nice beverage and relax in our serenity room; we also offer free wifi to take care of some business during your visit. We appreciate your understanding and patience when unpredictable appointment delays occur.
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Winston-Salem Dental Specialists is a member of the following professional organizations (not all doctors belong to all these organizations):
