Your Questions:

Do you accept new patients?
Yes! We always have room in our practice for new patients and look forward to any referral patients. Whatever your needs may be, we can help you from emergencies to your regular dental health check up.

Do you accept children?
We do see children and want them to have an enjoyable visit. We generally like to see a child when they can sit still for about 10-15 minutes. A lot of time is spent explaining the different types of equipment and tools that we use. The goal of the first visit is to count the teeth and make the child comfortable with the office and staff.

Do you have payment plans?
We offer Care Credit, an outside dental financing company that you can apply for here in our office or by phone. They offer 3, 9 or 12 months interest-free financing of your treatment.

Can I just get my teeth cleaned?
We are always happy to accommodate your wishes, however Texas law does require that the patient have an current examination and current x-rays within 12 months to allow treatment.

How much will my insurance pay and do you accept my plan? Do you file on patients with 2 insurances?
Depending on the insurance company, they may pay 0-100% of the average fee for this area. There is no great answer to your question, due to the many different types of insurance plans. Once provided with the insurance information, we can give you and estimate of whether or not there will be a benefit and how much it might be. We accept all types of plans that pay out of network. We do not participate in plans that require the patient to see a particular dentist. As a courtesy to the patient, we do file your insurance, however, the patient is responsible for their estimated payment at the time of service. We do not file on second insurances, but will give you an insurance form for you to complete and mail to them.

How old is Dr. Whittle and how long has he been in practice?
Dr. Whittle has been practicing dentistry for 26 years. He served 2 years in the Health Service government program after graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry. He has lived in Benbrook for many years. He has 3 adult children, 2 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 2 dogs, and loves trains and singing in his quartet and men's chorus.

Do you do braces?
No. Orthodontics (braces) is usually a specialty that is done by a dentist that has attended additional education in that field. We can certainly give you a name of a local dentist that specializes in this field.

Will Dr. Whittle do a root canal for me?
Depending on the amount of infection and area of the tooth, Dr. Whittle does some root canals. This would be determined by Dr. Whittle at your exam appointment whether or not he will treat or refer to a root canal specialist.

Does Dr. Whittle pull teeth? How about wisdom teeth?
Dr. Whittle will be happy to evaluate your tooth. Depending on the condition of the tooth and your mouth, he may refer to an oral surgeon that specializes in difficult extractions. All wisdom teeth are generally referred to a specialist.

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

Dr. Whittle subscribes to the latest industry journals to stay current with research and developments in dentistry. He also takes time regularly to attend continuing education classes and makes sure each staff member does, too.

How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?

Healthy adults usually benefit from professional cleanings and checkups every six months. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing them every day will go a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy, but it is wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar, which requires professional cleaning to avoid gum disease.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Our office accepts most major insurance plans and will file your claims for you. We also are knowledgeable about the latest coverage, and will be happy to discuss your insurance with you before your treatment.

How can I safely whiten my teeth?

A number of new procedures can make your smile whiter and brighter.. Dr. Whittle can help you determine the potential for whitening your teeth, based on their current color and the causes of any discoloration. Once you have decided on the most appropriate method for you, we will be more than happy to schedule an appointment for you.

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

When you become one of our patients, we’ll do our best to provide you with dental care in the easiest, most convenient way for you. Our office is easy to find and easy to get to, and we’ll listen to what you want and need. Also, we think of you as a part of our family, not as just another set of teeth to fix and clean. In short, our goal is to make you happy by providing you and your family with high-quality dental care in a nurturing, loving environment.

My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?

Gums that bleed after brushing can be caused by a number of things and likely require attention. Bleeding gums can be caused by using improper, rough scrubbing instead of gentle circular motions when you brush; using a hard bristled toothbrush instead of a soft one; plaque or tartar buildup below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gum disease. If you brush and floss correctly and your gums continue to bleed, please call us for an appointment to evaluate the problem.

I really do not like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?

We understand that many patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. We offer headphones for you to wear while you are in the chair, and you may even bring your own music. We have massage pads in the chairs to sooth and relax you.