Frequently Asked Questions – Davis & Wine Dental in Bluffton, Okatie, and Pooler, GA

What type of dental practice is Davis and Wine Dental?

Davis and Wine is a comprehensive dental practice providing both general dentistry and advanced prosthodontic and restorative care. This means we treat routine dental needs like cleanings and exams as well as complex cases involving dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and full-mouth reconstruction.

What is a prosthodontist?

A prosthodontist is a dental specialist with additional advanced training focused on restoring and replacing teeth. Prosthodontists specialize in treatments such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, and full-mouth rehabilitation.

Do I need a specialist or a general dentist?

It depends on your needs. A general dentist handles preventive care, fillings, cleanings, and routine treatments. A prosthodontist specializes in more complex restorative cases. At Davis and Wine, you have access to both levels of care in one office.

How experienced are the doctors at Davis and Wine?

All of our doctors are board certified in general dentistry and their specific specialties.

Dr. Byron Davis has been a member of the American College of Prosthodontists for over 20 years and believes that exceptional dental care goes beyond simply treating symptoms; it’s about understanding and addressing the individual needs of each patient.

Dr. Christopher Wine is a licensed dentist and prosthodontist, also with 2 decades of experience in general dentistry and over ten years in prosthodontic practice. His focus is to educate his patients on healthy oral habits with an emphasis on dental prevention. 

Our expert implant dentist on-site is Dr. John Vargo. Dr. Vargo has specialized in dental implants and periodontics for over 30 years and we have been happy to have him at Davis and Wine since 2017. Dr. Vargo has been Board Certified with the American Board of Periodontology since 1989.

Dr. Ericka Miller graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, earning her Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD).  She spent the majority of her dental school time at the University of Florida Center of Implant Dentistry, where she found her love for prosthodontics and implant dentistry.

After graduation, Dr. Miller headed west to the Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas to complete her prosthodontic residency and masters in Oral Biology.

What makes your practice different?

Our practice combines the convenience of general dentistry with the expertise of prosthodontic specialists. This allows us to handle everything from routine care to advanced restorative and cosmetic treatments under one roof, using modern technology and a patient-focused approach.

What general dental services do you offer?

We provide routine dental exams, professional cleanings, fillings, digital X-rays, preventive care, gum health evaluations, and basic restorative treatments such as crowns and tooth-colored fillings.

How often should I visit the dentist?

Most patients should visit every six months for preventive exams and cleanings. Some patients with gum disease or ongoing dental issues may require more frequent visits.

Do you treat children and families?

Yes. We provide general dental care for patients of all ages, including pediatric care, making it convenient for families to receive care in one location.

What should I expect during a routine dental visit?

A typical visit includes a cleaning, dental exam, digital X-rays if needed, and a review of your oral health. Your dentist will discuss any findings and recommend treatment if necessary.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Many patients missing one or more teeth are candidates for dental implants. We evaluate your oral health, bone structure, and medical history to determine the best treatment plan for you.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants restore function and appearance, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. They also help preserve jawbone health and provide a long-term tooth replacement solution.

What if I’ve been missing teeth for a long time?

Even if you’ve experienced bone loss, you may still qualify for implants. Bone grafting or other preparatory treatments may be recommended to support successful implant placement.

What restorative treatments do you offer?

We offer crowns, bridges, dentures, implant-supported restorations, inlays, onlays, and full-mouth reconstruction for patients with missing or damaged teeth.

What is full-mouth reconstruction?

Full-mouth reconstruction involves rebuilding or replacing most or all of the teeth in a patient’s mouth. It combines multiple restorative treatments to restore function, health, and aesthetics.

Cosmetic Dentistry

What cosmetic treatments do you offer?

We provide veneers, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, crowns, and other treatments designed to improve the appearance of your smile.

Are veneers right for me?

Veneers may be a good option if you have chipped, stained, worn, or slightly misaligned teeth. A consultation is needed to determine if they are the right solution for your goals.

How long does teeth whitening last?

Results vary depending on diet and oral hygiene habits, but many patients enjoy long-lasting brightness with proper care and maintenance.

Patient Information

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes. We work with many insurance providers and help patients understand their benefits and coverage options.

Do you offer financing options?

Yes. We offer flexible payment options and financing plans to help make dental care more affordable.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit includes a comprehensive exam, discussion of your concerns, digital imaging if needed, and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required. Patients are welcome to contact our office directly to schedule an appointment.

Technology & Comfort

What technology do you use?

We use modern dental technology including digital X-rays, advanced diagnostic tools, and restorative planning systems to improve accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Is patient comfort a priority?

Yes. We focus on providing gentle care in a comfortable environment and take time to ensure patients feel informed and at ease. We have sedation options for more involved procedures as well to reduce pain and anxiety.

Locations & Scheduling

Where are you located?

We have convenient office locations in Okatie, South Carolina; Bluffton, South Carolina; and Pooler, Georgia.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call our office or request an appointment through our website. Our team will help you find a convenient time for your visit.

Which areas do you serve?

We proudly serve patients throughout Okatie, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Savannah, Pooler, and surrounding communities.