Frequently asked questions

Yes. New patients of all ages are welcome. Call (724) 537-9870 or send us a message and we will find you a convenient time, often within the same week.

Yes. Emergency calls and appointments are welcome, especially for new patients seeking help. Call the office as early in the day as you can and we will make room to see you.

We participate with around 50 dental plans, including Aetna, MetLife, Guardian, Humana, Sun Life, United Healthcare PPO and UPMC Dental Advantage. We also take some United Concordia and Cigna groups - those are umbrella companies, so call us with your specific plan and we will confirm. If your plan is not listed at all, call and we will check it for you.

Call us and we will go over your options. Many of our patients pay out of pocket. You get a written estimate before treatment begins, we can arrange a payment schedule for larger work, and CareCredit financing is available.

We are at 322 Unity Plaza in Latrobe, on US Route 30 in Unity Township, near Saint Vincent College. Free parking is available at the door.

Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and CareCredit. Payment is due at the time of treatment.

Please give us at least 24 hours notice if you cannot keep an appointment so we can offer the time to another patient. A fee may apply for missed appointments without notice.

The placement is done under local anesthetic and most patients report less discomfort than they expected, often comparing it to a routine extraction. Mild soreness for a few days is normal and is managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Most crowns last 10 to 15 years, and many last far longer with good brushing, flossing, and regular checkups.

Both are excellent. An implant does not involve the neighboring teeth and generally lasts longer. A bridge is faster, usually less expensive, and does not require surgery. Dr. Tobin will explain which fits your mouth and budget.

Typically five to ten years. Your jaw slowly changes shape over time, so dentures need periodic relining and eventually replacement to keep a good fit.

The procedure itself is done under local anesthetic and is generally no more uncomfortable than a filling. The toothache that brought you in is usually gone by the time you leave.

Most extractions, including many wisdom teeth, are done right here in our office. Dr. Tobin will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon if a tooth is deeply impacted or sedation is needed.

Some temporary sensitivity is common and fades within a day or two of finishing treatment. Using a sensitivity toothpaste beforehand helps.

With good care, porcelain veneers routinely last 10 to 15 years or longer.

Typically seven to ten years or more, depending on size and location. Regular checkups let us catch any wear early.

Gingivitis is fully reversible with treatment and good home care. Periodontitis can be stopped and controlled, though lost bone does not grow back, which is why early treatment is so important.

Every six months for most patients. Those with gum disease or a history of frequent cavities benefit from visits every three to four months.