Eye Care FAQ - Optometric Associates
of Southern Maine

Common Questions About Eye Exams, Vision Care, and Eye Health

When it comes to protecting your vision, having the right information matters. At Optometric Associates of Southern Maine, our experienced eye doctors provide comprehensive eye exams, vision care, contact lens fittings, and treatment for common eye conditions for patients throughout Southern Maine.



Below are answers to some of the most common questions about eye exams, eye health, glasses, and contact lenses. If you are looking for a trusted optometrist near Biddeford, Sanford, or surrounding communities, our team is here to help you see clearly and maintain healthy vision for years to come.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Exams and Vision Care



Are you accepting new patients?

Yes. Optometric Associates of Southern Maine welcomes new patients from Biddeford, Sanford, and surrounding Southern Maine communities. Our team is committed to providing personalized vision care for patients of all ages.

What should I bring to my eye appointment?

Please bring your current glasses or contact lenses, a list of medications, your medical history, and your vision insurance information if applicable. This helps our team provide the most accurate care during your visit.

What eye conditions can an optometrist detect?

Comprehensive eye exams can help detect many common eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome, and diabetic eye disease. Early diagnosis is key to protecting long term vision.

How do I know if I need new glasses?

Common signs include blurry vision, headaches, eye strain, difficulty seeing at night, or squinting to focus. If you experience these symptoms, scheduling an eye exam can determine whether your prescription needs updating.

Can I wear contact lenses instead of glasses?

Many patients choose contact lenses for convenience and active lifestyles. During a contact lens exam and fitting, your eye doctor will determine the best lens type for your eyes and ensure they fit comfortably and safely.

Do my eyes need to be dilated during an exam?

Eye dilation may be recommended because it allows your optometrist to view more of the retina and detect potential eye diseases earlier. In some cases, advanced retinal imaging technology may also be used to capture detailed images of the eye.

Do you provide eye exams for children?

Yes. Children’s eye exams help ensure healthy visual development. Our eye doctors evaluate focusing ability, eye alignment, and overall vision to identify any issues that may affect reading, learning, or daily activities.

Why are routine eye exams important?

Routine eye exams help detect vision problems early and can also reveal signs of other health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Early detection allows your eye doctor to recommend treatment that protects your long term eye health.

What happens during a comprehensive eye exam?

A comprehensive eye exam evaluates both your vision and the overall health of your eyes. Your optometrist may review your medical history, test your vision and eye movements, examine the retina, and screen for common eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

How often should I get an eye exam?

Most adults should schedule a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years. Patients with certain health conditions, changes in vision, or existing eye diseases may need more frequent visits so their eye doctor can monitor eye health and vision changes.

Schedule Your Eye Exam in Southern Maine

If you are searching for an experienced optometrist in Southern Maine, the team at Optometric Associates of Southern Maine is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and keep your vision healthy and clear.

Contact Us