Dr. John S Rizza, DDS

Dr. Rizza's Practice is proudly associated with
Home of First Street Smiles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General FAQs:
Go to insurance faqs
Dr. Rizza carries with him a mobile pager 24 hrs.  His paging telephone number is advertized on his voice answering system.  When you telephone the office, press the emergency prompt.  If Dr. Rizza is away for professional meetings, out of town or on vacation, an associate dentist nearby will be on call for emergencies.  Please note, that phone systems that do not accept private numbers must be UNBLOCKED or a return call may not be received from the doctor.
Can the Doctor be contacted for emergencies when the office is closed?
What is considered a dental emergency?
Pain is usually the determining factor.  Never allow the slightest pain to go unchecked if it presents for more than 2 days.  Any fractured fillings or broken teeth should be treated immediately.
Should I keep my appointment if I am not feeling well?
If not feeling well, …contact the office and my staff will advise you whether or not to honor or reschedule your appointment.
What is your cancellation policy?
It is preferred to have a 36 hour notice of cancellation, from the time of your appointment. Patients with cancellations without a 24 hours notice will incur a minimum fee of $50.00.
If required to pre-medicate for my visit, can you arrange for the prescription?
Yes, our office staff will contact your physician’s office and inquire exactly what you need for medication. Your physician may render your first prescription to your pharmacy. We may renew as necessary and will check in with your physician on a frequent basis as your needs may change.
How quickly can a new patient get an appointment?
If you are in an emergency situation with associated pain, you are normally seen the same business (working) day. If you are looking to establish you or your family with exams, cleanings etc., our staff will provide you an appointment within a ten day time frame.
Do you take referrals?
Dr. Rizza currently accepts new patient referrals for his existing patient base of 27 years of practice.
How do I get to your office?
Please check our website under driving directions for a map and detailed directions.
Is your office handicap accessible?
Yes, our office is at street level to aid you in a wheel chair or power wheel scooters.
What is your payment policy?
We accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Payment for cleanings, exams, x-rays and fillings are expected at time of service. Multi-visit services are arranged prior to treatment. If you have dental insurance, my staff will call your company for eligibility. Based on the information, you may be asked to pay your portion not covered by your plan. In fairness to all patients, any information given over the phone by your insurance company is never a guarantee of payment. Patents will be responsible for all uncovered expenses.
When is the best age to bring my child for dental treatment?
The best age is age 4. Most children respond best to examination and tooth cleaning at this time. It is always best to bring a 3 year old to your own cleaning, so they may become acquainted with the office and staff.
How important is it to keep regular cleanings and check-ups?
It has been shown through research that good oral hygiene promotes good overall systemic health. It has also been shown poor oral hygiene may certainly contribute to heart disease, liver malfunction, and potential pancreatic disease. You will always be urged to book your next cleaning 3, 4, or 6 months in advance.
How frequently do I require x-rays?
Dr. Rizza will need a complete series of x-rays, as a diagnostic tool, with all patients at the time of your comprehensive treatment planning visit. They are necessary for finding hidden cavities, bone loss, or disease. The x-rays coupled with a through oral exam are vital to good dental health. Once a complete set of x-rays are established, only 2 films are taken yearly to check between posterior teeth. A complete series of x-rays may be repeated