Hospital Dentistry Services
At My Community Dental Centers, we understand that some patients need additional support to receive their restorative dental care. Our Hospital Services are designed for children who meet certain criteria and adults with specific medical and/or cognitive conditions. This service is provided in a hospital setting under general anesthesia, allowing our skilled dental professionals to perform necessary procedures with the utmost care and precision, ensuring the best possible outcome for your loved one.
Scheduling Your Hospital Visit
Once your child or loved one is referred for hospital-based dentistry, it’s important to call us as soon as possible to begin the scheduling process. Our team is dedicated to helping you coordinate care and ensuring your patient is treated as soon as possible, though hospital wait lists can vary. Due to the limited number of hospital partner locations, travel may be required.
To schedule your visit, please call 231-437-4749 at your earliest convenience. Remember, scheduling for hospital dentistry can take 3 to 6 months, so we strongly encourage you to call right away. Voicemail messages are returned promptly.
Important Safety Guidelines
To ensure the safety and success of the procedure, there are specific pre-operative requirements that must be followed:
- Pre-operative Physical: Your patient must have a physical exam with their Primary Care Physician within a specific time frame before the procedure.
- Pre-admission Phone Call: Be prepared to accept a call from the hospital for pre-admission information and to be assigned your arrival time.
- Fasting Guidelines: It’s essential to withhold all food and drink on the day of the procedure to comply with anesthesia safety protocols.
- A parent or legal guardian must be present during the entire process. This is to ensure the patient’s safety and that all necessary pre-operative and post-operative care is communicated by the physicians.
FAQ's
I have dental anxiety – can I be referred for hospital services?
This service is not available for patients seeking sedation due to dental anxiety alone. It is specifically reserved for children who meet certain criteria and adults with specific medical and/or cognitive conditions.
Something came up during my scheduled appointment day – can I reschedule?
This service is based on hospital availability, including the utilization of a physical and medical support team. Once a date is confirmed, changes cannot be made. This means it’s crucial to be fully committed to the scheduled date and time of the procedure. Missed surgery days cannot be rescheduled.
I have dental insurance – that's enough, right?
Your medical and dental insurance must remain active throughout the entire referral process, from scheduling to the completion of treatment. Please ensure your coverage is in good standing to avoid any interruptions in care.
Can I send a text message to request scheduling?
Text communication may be possible during the process, but a phone call is required for initial communication and reservation.
I have a new phone and/or cannot find the hospital dentistry contact.
Please contact your local MCDC office to update your contact information and ask to be transferred to Hospital Services.
