In our practice, we love seeing the whole family. Our patients range in age from 3-103. Our goal is to see everyone with good dental health. We are also able to create the smile you have always wanted. We realize you may have some questions and hope this brochure may help.

At the first appointment, we ask that you come at least 30 minutes early to fill out necessary medical history and financial forms. Please complete your medical history in its entirety. Please list all medications you're on, your physician, prior dentist, all allergies, any x-rays last taken, etc. Many patients tend to skip questions they feel are unimportant. Please realize all the information we ask for is necessary. For your comfort we would like to know the type of music you like and the radio station you prefer. Your email address will help us communicate with you.

1. What do I do if I have insurance?
2. What if I have no insurance?
3. What would be procedure at my child's appointment?
4. What if I have to change an appointment?
5. What about the equipment? Is it sterilized?
6. How can I find out more information?

What do I do if I have insurance? [ back to top ]

First you should know what your insurance plan is and what it covers. This is your responsibility, something most patients do not realize. We accept private dental insurance plans which let you choose your dentist. We do not participate in networks (except Delta Premier), HMO's, or discount plans. Please be aware of which type of plan you have before you call. Please bring an insurance claim form (unless you have Delta Premier). Also please bring as much information as you can such as an insurance card and benefit booklet. Please have the employee portion of your form filled out and signed as this saves time. We only ask this once, unless your insurance changes. There is no need to bring a form for each appointment. Our computer network will file your subsequent claims. We will gladly file your insurance for you as a courtesy. Your payment at any visit is any insurance deductible that has not been met and the patient portion not covered by insurance. This is expected at each visit. There are numerous insurance companies and each has their own rules and payment schedules. So please understand we cannot ever guarantee an exact insurance payment. We can at best estimate.

What if I have no insurance? [ back to top ]

Your co-payment is due in full at the time of service. We avoid automatically "just billing" patients. "Billing" increases overhead and takes time we can better spend with you, our patient. Below some options are listed to help you, especially if you have no dental insurance. For your convenience, we accept Mastercard, VISA, Discover, and American Express. You may also apply for a private credit card for this office. A good credit history and an approved application are required. Once approved, you may be eligible for three to twelve months with no interest depending on the amount.

What would be procedure at my child's appointment? [ back to top ]

Dr. Harrison loves to see children and has a few recommendations to make their visit less stressful. Usually he recommends that you allow your child to go back to the examination room without you. (Sometimes Dr. Harrison will ask a parent to come back with the child.) We have found that most children respond far better alone. Many times if you are nervous, it can affect them, and then they are more likely to be uncooperative for us. And most children behave more maturely without their parents. Dr. Harrison has two daughters and most of us here have our own children so we do understand any concerns. If you feel strongly about going back with your child at his/her first appointment, please tell the assistant. The rooms are small but we can put a chair for you there. But this would not work for several appointments (such as numerous fillings). Usually x-rays are taken first and for everyone's safety, no one is allowed in the exam room while x-rays are being taken. Your child's visit will be a positive experience. Our young patients look forward to their dental visits. After their visits, they will receive a prize, a sticker, a balloon, and will have their picture taken. We place it on our wall to show everyone their terrific smile. When they return in six months for their next checkup and picture, they get their old photo to see how much they've grown. Please don't worry-we will treat your child as our own.

What if I have to change an appointment? [ back to top ]

We require 24-48 hours notice to change or cancel an appointment. Please realize that time has been reserved for you. We try to stay on schedule and prevent you from waiting. However, there will be a charge of at least $40.00 for any broken appointment or appointment change with little notice. An appointment of one hour or more requires at least 48 hours notice. Notice means business days - not closed days.

What about the equipment? Is it sterilized? [ back to top ]

You can feel assured that everything is being done to meet and exceed government guidelines for protecting you and your family in this office. To protect your health, we: use a self-contained water system. No city water is used in your mouth - only our distilled water. use a new state of the art cassette sterilization system. use the latest proven sterilization/disinfection methods on instruments, handpieces, and other materials used in your mouth. wear disposable gloves and change them between each patient. wear disposable masks that prevent viruses and bacteria from entering or leaving the nose and mouth. wear protective eyewear for face shields that prevent contamination from aerosol splatter. scrub our hands with an approved germicidal soap before and after treating each patient. meticulously clean and disinfect the chair, countertops and other surface areas in all treatment rooms. use disposable products wherever possible to eliminate cross-infection. carefully handle all disposable materials as recommended by federal government guidelines.

	How can I find out more information? [ back to top ]
	Please contact us by email or phone us at (757) 827-0250 if you have any questions.

We hope you will feel very comfortable with us. You will notice our reception area has an open window with no glass. This is deliberate, so you feel free to communicate with us. Please don't ever hesitate to speak with any of us. We will gladly answer any questions.

The painted mural and the gas fireplace in the reception area are unique and intended to relax you. The kids' area is for all our special little patients. We want them to feel welcome and happy in our office.

Dr. Harrison stays current with the ever changing standards in dentistry. His investment in continuing education, intraoral cameras, a detailed computer network, an air abrasion machine (no shots, no drill), laser curing light and Diagnodent laser cavity detector are proof of his commitment to you, our patient.

We have videos and brochures to help explain the most common treatments. Dr. Harrison has been practicing for over 20 years. He is a member of the ADA, VA Dental Association, Peninsula Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, and local study clubs. Rest assured you are in good hands with us.