DR. LORA GAXIOLA DMD
How do I access the patient portal?
Click Patient Portal under the Patients tab and follow the instructions there.
What are your Covid-19 safety procedures?
Safety is a top priority at Glow Dentistry. We have implemented strict protocols to keep our staff and patients healthy. We also will be reviewing them periodically as required by the Alabama Board of Dental Examiners and CDC. Please review our procedures by going to the Safety tab or clicking here.
What age do you start seeing children?
This depends on the family. If the child is familiar with the dentist and even has been in a time or two with a parent or a sibling, then we can often see them as early as 3 years old. We've done many a lap cleaning and check up on little ones even sooner than that!
Do you take my insurance?
We are preferred providers on many insurance plans, and we gladly file almost all insurances as a courtesy. Please reach out to us. Our Patient Care Coordinator, Susie or our Benefits Coordinator, Jennifer will be happy to provide information specific to your plan.
What can I do if I have no insurance?
Our in-office membership plan is an affordable alternative to insurance. One low monthly payment takes care of your cleanings, professional exams, and all necessary radiographs, and allows a discount on all other services provided in the office. Call to ask about our Glow Membership Plan!
What can you do to help with my fear of the Dentist?
This is where we shine! We have everything from noise-canceling headphones and warming blankets to laughing gas to help relieve your fears. But what we do best is provide TLC and a gentle touch to all of our patients. We take time to explain everything thoroughly and make sure you are comfortable as much as we possibly can. You make that appointment and come in, we'll take care of the rest!
In-office Teeth Whitening
1. How long does it take?
You'll be in the chair for 20-30 minutes, that's all!
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2. Does it hurt?
This is the best part! Most of our patients report little to NO sensitivity!
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3. How long does it last?
This depends on your habits, but you will receive a touch-up pen with up to 60 applications in it that you can used to maintain your results. Because this treatment is so fast and easy, many of our patients have it done once or twice a year!
Fluoride Treatment
1. What is Fluoride Varnish?
Fluoride varnish is a protective resin coating of sodium fluoride used to help prevent teeth against tooth decay. It can also help with tooth sensitivity due to grinding and/or gum recession.
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2. Who benefits from Fluoride Varnish?
Fluoride treatments are routinely used after cleaning for children, but many adults may also benefit from fluoride treatment as much as, or even more than children. Adults who are possible candidates for in office fluoride treatments may show one or more of the following characteristics:
-Frequent decay
-Gum recession with exposed tooth root (roots are more vulnerable to decay and cause sensitivity)
-Sensitive teeth
-Dry mouth (a lack of normal saliva flow makes teeth more susceptible to decay)
-Infrequent brushing and flossing (poor home care can result in more frequent decay)
-Crowns or multiple fillings (the edges of crowns and fillings are prone to decay and can cause sensitivity)
-Active orthodontic treatment (brackets trap more plaque making teeth more likely to decay)
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3. Will my insurance cover fluoride treatments?
Most all insurance companies will cover fluoride treatments up to the age of 18. But, generally insurance does not cover Fluoride Varnish for adults, but with a minimal investment, you can prevent much more costly repairs down the road. We have made this treatment cost efficient here at our office and we will be happy to go over these prices with you.
4. What to expect after a fluoride treatment
-To ensure that the fluoride treatment fully penetrates the tooth enamel and yield the desired result here are some after care tips to consider.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke for 30 minutes after the fluoride treatment.
After it dries, any excess varnish may appear “spotty” and may slide off the tooth structure. This is normal and will not affect the varnish performance as there is still a full layer of varnish on your teeth.
Varnish fluoride treatment will remain on your teeth for about 4 to 6 hours. During this time, do not brush or floss and avoid hot beverages.
After 6 hours you may brush and floss your teeth. This will help to remove any remaining fluoride from your teeth. You may also resume your normal diet and lifestyle after the 6 hours.
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5. How long does it last?
Studies have shown that the effects of Fluoride varnish can still be seen up to 4 months after the treatment! That's why we recommend having a treatment at least once or ideally twice a year.