FAQs

Answering Questions From Patients Across La Mesa, Spring Valley, & More

At the office of Drs Hill and Schneidmiller, we strive to create a partnership with all of our patients. We both carry the goal of helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile, and this goal is easily attainable through mutual understanding and effort. It’s important to our team that all of your questions are answered, which is why we have compiled this list of common inquiries. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our Spring Valley and La Mesa dentistry office. We look forward to the opportunity to discuss your oral health in further detail.

Common Questions

Q: Do you screen patients for Covid 19? A: Drs Hill and Schneidmiller prescreen patients on the phone and upon arrival in our parking lot. Temperatures are taken prior to entering the building for all patients and others who may enter. All team members follow strict protocol under the guidance of the doctors.

Q: How often should I visit the dentist? A: At Hill and Schneidmiller DDS, we follow the recommendations set forth by the American Dental Association that patients schedule an appointment twice a year for an exam and professional cleaning.

Q: What should I do in a dental emergency?
A: If you have a dental emergency that requires immediate care, call 911 or go to the local emergency room or urgent care facility. If your emergency is not life-threatening, please call our office. We do our best to fit you into our normal business hours as soon as possible.

Q: What toothbrush do you recommend?
A: While we don’t recommend a specific brand of toothbrush, we do encourage adults to use a small-to-medium sized one with soft or ultrasoft bristles. Children should use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles in order to reach the tight quarters in the back of the mouth.

Manual and powered toothbrushes are equally effective if used correctly. Ask our Hygiene Specialist which one is best as there may be a special advantage for you. Either of our Hygiene Team Specialists will be happy to guide you.

Q: How often should I use a new toothbrush?
A: Our office follows the recommendation of the ADA that a toothbrush should be replaced every 3-4 months in order to keep the bristles strong and effective. Children may need to replace theirs more often.

Q: Is it better to brush or floss first?
A: As long as both brushing and flossing are done thoroughly, it doesn’t matter which is done first. However, if you floss first, the fluoride in your toothpaste may be more effective in reaching the areas between your teeth.

Q: Do you recommend specific toothpaste?
A: We don’t recommend one specific brand of toothpaste, but we do encourage patients to use toothpaste that carries the ADA seal of acceptance and contains fluoride. Research has shown that fluoride can help your teeth rebuild tooth structure and strengthen themselves while preventing decay.

Q: Are there payment plans for my dental care?
A: Absolutely. We are happy to accept most major credit cards as well as many different types of dental insurance. Our team can process your insurance claim once your co-pay has been paid.

Contact Our La Mesa Office With Additional Questions

If you have any additional inquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Hill and Schneidmiller DDS. We are happy to answer all of your questions. Speak with a member of our team by calling (619) 460-8211.