Frequently Asked Questions — McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN
Have a question about our dental services, your first visit, insurance, or what to expect during treatment? We have answered the most common questions our patients ask below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us directly — we’re always happy to help.
Is McLemore & McLemore, DDS accepting new patients?
Yes! We warmly welcome new patients of all ages to our practice in Jackson, TN. You can call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our new patients page to learn what to expect at your first visit and how to get started.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a valid photo ID, your dental insurance card (if applicable), a list of current medications, information about any known allergies or medical conditions, and any recent X-rays from a previous dentist if available. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early allows time to complete any remaining paperwork before your appointment begins.
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with a history of gum disease, higher risk of decay, or active dental concerns may need to visit every three to four months. Our team will recommend the schedule that is right for your individual needs.
Does McLemore & McLemore, DDS accept dental insurance?
Yes. We are in-network with BCBS of TN, Delta Dental, and United Concordia, and accept most major dental insurance plans. We submit insurance claims on your behalf as a courtesy. Plans we do not accept include TennCare, Blue Care, Denta-Quest, Health Springs, Humana-Medicare, HMO plans, and Discount Dental Plans. Visit our financial information page for full details.
What financing options are available if I don’t have insurance or need help covering costs?
We partner with CareCredit to offer flexible financing with no down payment required, deferred interest for up to 6 months, and fixed-interest payment plans up to 60 months. Our team can walk you through the options and help you apply. Learn more on our financial information page.
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call us immediately at (731) 424-2651. We prioritize emergency patients and will do our best to see you the same day. If you have knocked out a tooth, handle it by the crown only, store it in milk or saliva, and get to our office as quickly as possible. For more guidance, visit our emergency care page.
I have severe dental anxiety. Can McLemore & McLemore, DDS help?
Absolutely. Helping anxious patients feel comfortable is something we take great pride in. We offer a full comfort menu including paraffin hand treatments, warm herbal neck wraps, massage chair pads, cozy blankets, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for patients who need additional relaxation. Please let us know about your anxiety when you call so we can prepare for your visit. Learn more on our dental anxiety page.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is designed for patients with healthy gums and removes plaque and tartar above and at the gumline. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes below the gumline to remove bacteria and smooth root surfaces, and is necessary for patients with active gum disease. The type of cleaning you need is determined by the health of your gums at your exam.
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth; loose or shifting teeth; and pain when chewing. Many patients have gum disease without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular dental exams are essential for early detection. Visit our periodontal diagnosis page to learn more.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. We use digital X-rays, which use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. We also use lead aprons and thyroid collars as a precaution. The diagnostic benefit of detecting problems early — before they become larger and more costly — far outweighs the minimal radiation exposure involved.
What cosmetic dental services does McLemore & McLemore, DDS offer?
We offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted, including porcelain crowns, porcelain veneers, porcelain fixed bridges, and KoR professional teeth whitening. Schedule a consultation to discuss which options are right for your goals.
What is KoR Teeth Whitening and how is it different from store-bought products?
KoR Teeth Whitening is a professional-grade system that uses continuously refrigerated whitening gel to preserve maximum potency. It can achieve results of up to 16 shades lighter and is effective on difficult staining including tetracycline discoloration — results that over-the-counter products simply cannot deliver.
What should I do if I think I need a root canal?
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, swelling in the gums, or a visible bump near a tooth, contact us at (731) 424-2651 as soon as possible. These may be signs of an infected tooth pulp that requires root canal therapy. The earlier it is treated, the better the outcome — and the procedure is far more comfortable than most people expect.
What are dental implants and are they a good option for replacing missing teeth?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. They provide a permanent, stable foundation for a crown or other restoration and are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and with proper care can last a lifetime. Schedule a consultation at McLemore & McLemore, DDS to find out if implants are right for you.
Does McLemore & McLemore, DDS offer orthodontic services?
Yes. We offer orthodontic services for patients who want straighter teeth and a more aligned bite. After an initial examination and X-rays, our team will walk you through all available treatment options so you can choose the approach that best fits your lifestyle and goals.
Do you offer dental sealants for children?
Yes. Dental sealants are one of the most effective preventive treatments we offer, particularly for children whose permanent molars have recently erupted. Sealants protect the deep grooves of back teeth from decay and can reduce cavity risk in those areas by nearly 80%. We also apply sealants to qualifying adult teeth.
What are the signs of oral cancer and how often should I be screened?
Warning signs of oral cancer include white or red patches in the mouth, sores or ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks, unexplained bleeding, difficulty swallowing, and swelling in the jaw or neck. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we include an oral cancer screening as part of every routine dental exam. If you notice any concerning changes between visits, contact us promptly.
How do I contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS or request an appointment?
You can reach us by phone at (731) 424-2651, visit our contact page to send a message, or use our online appointment request form. Our office is located at 211 Oil Well Rd, Jackson, TN 38305. We are open Monday through Thursday from 8:10 AM to 5:00 PM.
