FAQs

1.      How can I schedule an appointment?

Just call our office during regular business hours at 314-721-1660.  Outside of business hours, you can leave us a text requesting days and times that you’re free and we will call you back with what we have available. 

2.      Where are you located?

Our office is in the Francis Place medical building near the Clayton Rd and Brentwood Blvd intersection.  It’s in Clayton, but don’t worry, there’s plenty of free parking available.

3.      Do you offer walk-in appointments?

Unfortunately, with Covid-19 protocols and trying to limit the number of patients in the office at one time, we can not welcome walk-ins, even to schedule an appointment.  It is always best to call or text to schedule an appointment and we will do our best to find a time in our schedule that fits for you. 

 4.      Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we can submit claims to any PPO dental insurance provider, but are only “in network”  with Delta Dental.  If you have insurance that is not Delta Dental, be sure to call them to ask what your out of network benefits are.  Many patients are surprised to find there is not a great deal of cost difference if you still choose Clayton Family Dental, for your dental needs, especially preventative care.

5.      What kind of financing do you offer?

Because dental care is expensive, no matter where you receive it, we understand it can become a source of stress.  We want to make sure you receive the care you need, but within your budget. 

Dr. Mary often tells worried patients that she would never want to trade a dental problem for a financial problem, because she does not consider that helping her patients.  If you are avoiding treatment due to finances, always talk through your treatment plan with Dr. Smith and/or our financial coordinator.

Our office accepts CareCredit, a healthcare credit card that is used to pay for out-of-pocket health expenses. It is necessary to obtain credit approval.  Once approved, you can use it, as needed, for any future treatment.  CareCredit is a great option if you're on a budget because you can pay for your dental expenses in installments. Ask us about CareCredit today! Applying is easy, and we are here to answer any questions.     

6.      How can I overcome my fear at the dentist?

Dental phobias can be very serious and are fairly common.  The first step to overcoming your fear is to make our dental team aware of it and be certain to discuss it with Dr. Smith.  Tell us exactly what drives you crazy at the dentist and the things that prevent you from coming regularly.  There is a good chance we can modify treatments to make you more comfortable.  Our goal is to make our patients as comfortable as possible during treatment, so be assured that we will do everything possible.  One of the most gratifying aspects of dentistry our team experiences is when a patient becomes more and more at ease with each dental visit. We are here for you! 

7.      What should I do in the event of a dental emergency? 

Whether or not you are a regular patient with us, contact us to schedule the treatment you need. We strive to make certain to fit people in pain in our schedule when serious problems arise.  If you are not experiencing pain, but still have an urgent issue, such as a broken denture, cracked tooth or displaced filling, don’t wait to contact us.  A small dental problem can become a bigger, more expensive, more painful problem if you wait.

8.      How often should my child see a dentist?

Children should see their dentist at least every 6 months for a cleaning and dental exam.

9.      What's the earliest age for my child to see a dentist?

According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears.  The purpose of that appointment is more for parent education than to actually clean or thoroughly examine your child’s teeth. 

Clayton Family Dental recommends a child’s first cleaning to occur after the child turns three years old.  If you have any concerns before 3 years old, never hesitate to call us and we can schedule an appointment if needed.

We make great effort to ensure children’s first dental experiences are positive!