FAQ

Pain Management

What is a pain specialist? What do they do?

Frequently, these specialists are specialized in other fields like anesthesiology, neurology, etc. What they do is that they discover the cause of pain, be it either acute or chronic and apply the best treatment to make you feel better.

You may receive treatment in a clinic or in the comfort of your home. When you see a pain specialist you will be asked to describe the way it hurts, where does it hurt, the duration of your sensations and about whether there is anything that worsens it or alleviates it. You may need to do a series of tests, a physical examination, and you will need to show your medical records as well as all other previous X-rays related to your pain.

Should I take pain medication only when I have a lot of pain?

No. Don’t wait until the pain becomes severe to take pain medication. Pain is easier to control when it is mild. You should take your pain medication regularly, just as prescribed. Sometimes this means taking medicine on a regular schedule, even when you don’t feel pain.

How do I decide what pain medication to use?

Discuss this with your doctor. They will give you instruction regarding how the medications work and when to take them. Be sure to report the effectiveness of the medication and any side effects you may experience.

Dentist

Why do regular dental visits matter?

Regular dental visits are important because they can help spot dental health problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. They also help prevent many problems from developing in the first place. Visiting your dentist regularly is also important because some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth.

What are some signs I should see a dentist?

  • Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold
  • Your gums are puffy and/or they bleed when you brush or floss
  • You have fillings, crowns, dental implants, dentures, etc.
  • You don’t like the way your smile or teeth look
  • You have persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth

I'm not having any symptoms. Do I still need to see a dentist?

Yes. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still have dental health problems that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular dental visits will also help prevent problems from developing. Continuity of care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It’s also important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health since many medical conditions can affect your dental health too.

Pediatric

What is a Pediatrician?

A pediatrician is a medical doctor that specializes in the care of children. Pediatricians have undergone special training in the health and illnesses of infants, teens and young adults, and the majority of pediatricians are certified by the American Board of Pediatrics after passing a comprehensive exam.

Pediatricians provide preventive health care for children in good health and medical care for children who are acutely or chronically ill. They also provide parents with support and advice with issues such as growth and development, safety and prevention, nutrition, and emotional wellness to foster a lifetime of good health.

How often should my child see the pediatrician?

Your child should not only see the pediatrician for an illness. It is also important to schedule well-child-care exams regularly, beginning in infancy. Also called well-care visits or checkups, these routine examinations provide the best opportunity for the doctor to observe the progress of your child’s physical and mental growth and development; to counsel and teach parents; to detect problems through screening tests; to provide immunizations, and to get to know one another. Well-care visits are strongly recommended as part of preventive pediatric care.

Can I meet my pediatrician before my baby is born?

Yes, in fact we strongly encourage parents-to-be to visit our office for a prenatal appointment. This is a great way to get acquainted with our office and our doctors. During this visit, we will answer any questions that you have about our practice or your new child. Visit our expectant parent’s page for more information.