At Millpond Family Dental, we know you have questions about your dental care, and we’re here to help! Whether you’re wondering about our services, insurance options, or what to expect at your first visit, we’ve got the answers. Below, you’ll find the most frequently asked questions about our practice, all in one place. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help!
Qualifications and Experience
What are your qualifications and certifications?
Dr. Stephen Harward earned his dental degree from the East Carolina University (ECU) School of Dental Medicine and has a background in Dental Hygiene from the University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Dentistry. He’s passionate about staying up to date with the latest advancements in dental care to provide the best treatment possible.
How long have you been practicing dentistry?
Dr. Harward has over 15 years of experience in dentistry, helping families and individuals maintain healthy, confident smiles.
Do you have any specialties or areas of focus?
While we provide comprehensive family dental care, we have a strong focus on preventive dentistry, cosmetic treatments, dental implants, and Invisalign. We also take extra care in treating children, making their visits as comfortable and fun as possible!
Services and Technology
What services do you offer?
We offer everything from routine cleanings and fillings to more advanced treatments like dental implants, Invisalign, root canals, and cosmetic dentistry. Whether you need a simple check-up or a full smile makeover, we’ve got you covered!
Are you up-to-date with the latest dental technologies and techniques?
Absolutely! We use cutting-edge technology like digital X-rays (for lower radiation), CBCT 3D scans for precise imaging, and the iTero® scanner for digital impressions—no messy molds needed! Our goal is to make your visits more efficient, comfortable, and accurate.
Do you provide emergency dental care?
Yes! If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, please text or give us a call as soon as possible. It it’s after-hours, texting is best for the fastest response. We do our best to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments for urgent cases like toothaches, broken teeth, or swelling.
Patient Care and Comfort
How do you handle nervous or anxious patients?
We completely understand that dental visits can be nerve-wracking! Our team takes a gentle, reassuring approach and explains everything along the way to help you feel at ease. Plus, our private treatment rooms have TVs, blankets, and pillows to make your visit as relaxing as possible.
Do you offer sedation options, such as nitrous oxide?
Yes! We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation to help patients who feel anxious or need a little extra relaxation during treatment. It’s safe, effective, and wears off quickly, so you can go about your day afterward.
What can I expect during my first appointment?
Your first visit is all about getting to know you and your dental health. We’ll take digital X-rays, do a thorough exam, and talk about your oral health goals. If you’re here for a cleaning, we’ll make sure your teeth are fresh and polished before you leave!
Insurance and Payment
Do I need to have dental insurance?
No! Many of our patients find that our in-house dental membership is much more cost effective for them than purchasing and maintaining a dental insurance plan. We offer significant discounts and can work with you on financing options.
Do you accept my insurance plan?
We accept most major dental insurance plans! If you’re unsure, just give us a call, and we’ll check for you.
What payment options do you offer for treatments not covered by insurance?
We offer flexible payment plans and an in-house membership plan that covers routine exams, cleanings, and discounts on treatments for one low annual fee. We also accept major credit cards, HSA/FSA accounts, and CareCredit.
Accessibility and Convenience
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! We love welcoming new patients to our Millpond Family Dental community. Whether you’re new to Cary or just looking for a new dentist, we’d be happy to see you.
What are your office hours?
We’re open Tuesday through Friday, with flexible hours to accommodate busy schedules. Give us a call or check our website for exact times!
How do you handle after-hours emergencies?
If you have an after-hours dental emergency, text us for the fastest response! You can also call our office and follow the instructions on our voicemail. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible to help guide you on what to do next.
Patient Experience
Can I visit the office for a consultation before committing to treatment?
Of course! We encourage new patients to come in, meet our team, and ask any questions before starting treatment. Your comfort and confidence in your dental care are our top priorities.
How do you educate patients about their oral health and treatment options?
We believe in educating our patients so they can make informed decisions about their care. We’ll walk you through your treatment options, show you digital images of your teeth, and explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand.
We’re here to make dental visits easy, stress-free, and personalized to your needs. If you have any other questions, just give us a call or stop by our Cary office—we’d love to meet you! 😊
Heather is the business manager and resident office expert at Millpond Family Dental. With over 10 years experience in the dental industry, she loves supporting Millpond’s clients and brightening smiles!