Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during my appointment?

When I arrive at your chosen location, we begin with a calm, unhurried conversation. I take time to understand your health history, past dental experiences, and any specific concerns you may have. From there, your visit typically includes:

• A thorough but gentle oral health assessment
• Gentle scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Polishing to support gum health and comfort
• Frequent comfort check-ins throughout the appointment

Before I leave, we review simple, personalized oral hygiene guidance. This may include toothbrush routines, flossing techniques, or recommendations for interdental brushes. The goal is always comfort and steady improvement over time.

Appointments are never rushed and breaks are always welcomed.

What is mobile dental hygiene?

Mobile dental hygiene brings professional dental hygiene services directly to the patient. Care is provided in the comfort of the patient’s home or care facility rather than a traditional dental office. This approach removes barriers such as transportation, mobility challenges, and dental anxiety, while allowing care to be delivered at a calm pace.

Do I need to prepare anything before my appointment?

Very little preparation is required. For your first visit, I will need:

• A completed new patient form
• Access to a standard electrical outlet

Everything else is brought to you. My equipment is designed specifically for safe and professional mobile care.

Do you bring a dental chair, or do I need special seating?

Care is provided wherever the patient feels most comfortable. A portable dental chair is available when appropriate, but care can also be performed using the patient’s existing seating.

This may include:

• A portable dental chair brought to your location
• A personal bed
• A wheelchair
• A favorite recliner
• A supportive chair in a quiet room

There is no need to rearrange your home. Comfort and familiarity are part of what makes mobile care successful.

Do I still need to see a dentist?

Yes. Think of me as part of your extended care team.

My focus is preventive, gentle hygiene care delivered in the comfort of your home. A dentist oversees diagnosis and any advanced treatment if it is ever needed.

To continue home visits, California regulations require written authorization from a dentist or physician approximately every 18 months. This simple document ensures care remains properly supervised and compliant.

I can communicate with your current dentist, or help you establish care with one if needed. The goal is seamless, steady support for your oral health.

Who qualifies for mobile dental hygiene services?

Mobile dental hygiene services are designed for patients who have difficulty accessing a traditional dental office:

• Seniors and retirees
• Homebound individuals
• Residents of assisted living or nursing facilities
• Patients with mobility limitations
• Individuals with medically complex conditions
• Patients with severe dental anxiety or certain mental health challenges that make office visits overwhelming

If someone can comfortably travel to a dental office, they may not qualify under California RDHAP guidelines. If you are unsure, I am always happy to have a conversation to determine whether mobile care is the right fit.

Is mobile dental hygiene safe for elderly or medically fragile patients?

Yes. Mobile dental hygiene is especially well suited for patients who benefit from a slower, more attentive approach to care.

Care is delivered with:

• Careful review of patient’s medical history
• Gentle techniques tailored to each patient’s comfort and tolerance
• Attention to proper positioning and fatigue management
• Clear communication with caregivers and family members when appropriate
• Coordination with the patient’s dentist or healthcare provider when necessary

If a patient’s needs fall outside the scope of dental hygiene care, appropriate referrals to a dentist of specialist will be provided.

What if the patient is anxious or resistant to dental care?

Gentleness and patience are central to every visit. Appointments are unhurried, and care is adapted to each patient’s emotional and physical comfort level. Many patients who struggle in traditional dental offices feel more relaxed receiving care in the familiarity of their own environment.

Do you work with caregivers and family members?

Yes. Communication with caregivers and family members is an important part of the care process.

This may include:

• Explaining what to expect before the visit
• Discussing oral health findings after the appointment
• Coordinating ongoing maintenance visits
• Answering questions about home care routines

Families often appreciate the reassurance of knowing their loved one is being cared for consistently and attentively.

Is there a deposit required?

Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required to confirm all appointments.

This deposit typically covers the travel fee and helps reserve appointment time for mobile visits.

Do you accept insurance?

Tooth Fairy Mobile Hygiene operates as a fee-for-service practice.

Payment is due at the time of service. If your insurance plan allows, you may submit the visit documentation to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement.

Transparent pricing is always discussed in advance.

How often should visits be scheduled?

Visit frequency depends on overall health, gum condition, and individual risk factors.

Many elderly and medically complex patients benefit from consistent maintenance care to help prevent discomfort, infection, and avoidable complications.

Recommendations are made thoughtfully after your initial visit.