R. Stephen Ellis, D.D.S.
Fred I. Walters, D.D.S.
1434 Parker Dr
Laurel, MS 39440
(601) 649-3335

What about my children, at what age should they start seeing a dentist?

We usually start seeing children for their checkup visits at around age 3. The earlier we can introduce your children to dental health, the more comfortable they will become. They will also learn how to develop good dental habits that will keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime! If you notice any discoloration, broken teeth, pain, or other problems, of course we will want to examine them earlier. We may refer you to a pedodontist (child specialist) if we feel your child would be more comfortable.

What financial arrangements do you provide for your patients?

While many dental services are covered by insurance, the range of benefits depends on the individual features of your employer's contract with the insurance company. For this reason, our business staff will explain the financial side of your treatment plan and analyze your insurance coverage for you. Remember that apart from basic services, most plans pay only a percentage of your bill. Therefore, you are responsible for any difference between the fees charged in the benefits paid by the insurance company. We will help you by submitting your insurance claim forms and following up on your claim. However, to help control accounting and billing costs, payment is expected at the time services are rendered. We do offer payment plans, such as Care Credit, to help you afford dental care. We want you to make decisions about your oral health based on your dental needs and our professional judgment, not the reimbursement level of your dental benefits plan.

What if I need to cancel an appointment, will I be charged?

We understand your time is valuable and pride ourselves in staying on time. We view your appointment as a commitment to a specific period of time reserved for your treatment. If you find it necessary to change an appointment, it is important that our office receive at least 48 hours notice. This courtesy allows us to better serve you and others. Habitual broken appointments may result in a charge for the time reserved. At this time, we have not found it necessary to establish a policy to charge for broken appointments. Thanks for your continued cooperation.

How do the doctors keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials?

Drs. Ellis and Dr. Walters are actively involved in continuing their education and updating materials and equipment on a regular basis. They attend several continuing education seminars yearly and remain informed of the best dental techniques through their memberships in local, state, and national dental organizations. They are committed to providing quality, comfortable, dental care using the latest techniques.

What precautions do you make to ensure patient safety?

We follow all the most current and up to date sterilization and disease control guidelines. All of our instruments are heat sterilized prior to use on every patient. We are committed to providing safe and healthy dental care to all of our patients and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

I really don't like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?

For some patients, going to the dentist can be stressful! We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to all of our patients and in some cases can prescribe other medications to help you relax.

Do you accept referrals?

Our office enthusiastically welcomes referrals from our patients. We thank you for keeping us in mind as you talk with your friends, relatives, neighbors and coworkers. The best compliment you can give us is to refer those you know and love.

Is it bad if my gums bleed after I brush my teeth?

Bleeding gums can be a sign of a more serious problem such as gum disease, systemic disease or a nutritional deficiency. It is very important that we examine you on a regular basis to prevent any of these problems. We will also show you how to keep your teeth healthy at home to prevent any bleeding or swelling.

I want my front teeth to look better, but I don't want to wear braces. What can you do to help?

You have many options to improve your smile. Most of our patients are delighted and surprised at the beautiful results they can achieve just by whitening their teeth. We also provide bonding, veneers, and crowns. Let us show you how we can change your appearance (not to mention your confidence level!) on our computer imaging system.