FAQ
Q. How often should I see a dentist?
The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning.
Q. What should I expect during my appointment?
During your initial visit, one of our staff members will gather your medical and dental history. Following this, we will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums, screen for oral cancer, take any necessary X-rays, and perform a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) evaluation. If a diagnosis is made, we will thoroughly discuss it with you, along with any recommended treatment options. We will then either provide you with a treatment estimate or determine if we need to seek prior authorization from your insurance company.
During your regular follow-up appointments, we will continue to examine your teeth and gums, screen for oral cancer, clean your teeth, and develop treatment plans as needed. We will also address any pain or problems you may be experiencing and answer any questions you may have.
Q. What does "painless dentistry" mean?
We want to assure you that your comfort is our top priority. Painless dentistry is our approach to ensuring your experience in our office is as stress-free and pain-free as possible. To achieve this, we offer topical anesthetic, anesthetic injections, and nitrous oxide to help keep you as comfortable as possible during your visit.
Q. What if I have an emergency?
If you are having a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If you have a toothache or broken tooth, we will get you in as soon as possible and typically can get you in same day or following day. If it is after business hours, leave a voicemail message and we will return your call the following business day.
Q. Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?
Yes, we accept payment plans through Care Credit. We also accept many types of dental insurance and will process your claim for you, only collecting your estimated copay at the time of service. We accept cash and most major credit cards.
Q. Can the dentist whiten my teeth?
There are several methods available for teeth whitening:
In-office bleaching: We're excited to offer Zoom whitening, a highly effective treatment that utilizes a 25% hydrogen peroxide whitening gel in conjunction with the Zoom chairside lamp. This powerful combination allows the gel to gently penetrate your teeth, effectively breaking up stains and discoloration. The entire process takes approximately one hour, divided into four 15-minute sessions spanning over 1.5-2 hours. Feel free to bring headphones and your phone to enjoy music or watch shows during your treatment.
Teeth Whitening with Custom Trays: We will take impressions of your teeth to create custom-fit whitening trays. 1 Week later, you will receive your custom trays, along with bleach syringes and instructions for use. Once home, follow the provided instructions to apply the whitening gel to your trays and wear them for the specified time. You can purchase additional bleach syringes as needed to maintain your desired level of whiteness.
One-Time Use Disposable Trays:These one size fits all trays are pre-filled with bleaching gel and designed to be used only once. They offer a convenient and mess-free way to whiten teeth at home.
While there are other over-the-counter daily teeth whitening products available, it is important to use any whitening product only under the supervision of a dentist. To achieve your desired results safely and effectively, the American Dental Association recommends a professional dental examination and diagnosis before beginning any whitening programs. Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule.
Q. What if I have a gap in my teeth, a chipped tooth or teeth that do not respond to normal bleaching methods?
We offer several solutions:
Crowns: A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. It can be used to address a variety of cosmetic and functional concerns.
Bonding: This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the tooth to repair chips, close gaps, or improve its overall appearance.
ClearCorrect: This orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth and correct alignment issues, which may help address gaps and improve your smile.
During your visit, we would be happy to discuss these options in more detail and determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
Q. What kind of toothbrush should I use?
When choosing a toothbrush, it's important to consider the size, bristle type, and your individual needs. For most adults, a small to medium size toothbrush with soft to medium bristles is ideal. The brush head should be small enough to reach all areas of your mouth comfortably, including the back teeth. Children generally require a smaller toothbrush with soft bristles. If you have sensitive teeth, a toothbrush with gentle, soft bristles is often the best option. There are many different types of toothbrushes available, and your dentist can help you select the one that is most appropriate for you.
Q. How often should I replace my toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. With each use, the bristles become worn and less effective at cleaning your teeth. Depending on your individual oral health needs, you may need to replace your brush sooner. Children's toothbrushes typically need to be replaced more frequently than adults'.
Q. Is a powered toothbrush more effective than a manual toothbrush?
According to a 2014 review of studies that had more than 5,000 participants, after using an electronic toothbrush for three months there was a 21% reduction in plaque and an 11% reduction in gingivitis. But dental experts say that manual toothbrushes can be just as effective with the proper technique.
Q. Is one type of toothpaste better than others?
While we don't specifically recommend any particular toothpaste brand, we do advise using a toothpaste that contains fluoride and carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates that the toothpaste has undergone rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. Research consistently demonstrates that fluoride plays a crucial role in strengthening and rebuilding tooth structure, as well as preventing cavities.
Q. How often should I floss?
It is recommended daily. Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Flossing not only helps prevent cavities from forming between your teeth but also plays a key role in keeping your gums healthy.
Q. Should I brush or floss first?
Brushing and flossing thoroughly are both essential for maintaining good oral health. The order in which you do them is not as critical as ensuring you perform both tasks diligently. However, flossing before brushing allows the fluoride in your toothpaste to reach the spaces between your teeth more effectively.
Q. What's the difference between a cap and a crown?
The terms "cap" and "crown" actually refer to the same type of dental restoration. Both are designed to cover and protect a tooth that is severely damaged. While dentists tend to use the term "crown" for all types of these restorations, patients often refer to metal restorations as "caps" and tooth-colored restorations as "crowns."
Q. What's the difference between a partial denture and a bridge?
Both bridges and partial dentures are viable options, but they function in different ways. A bridge is a fixed prosthetic that is anchored to your existing teeth or dental implants. It literally "bridges" the gap created by missing teeth and is cemented into place, offering a permanent solution. A partial denture, on the other hand, is a removable appliance that replaces multiple missing teeth. It is held in place by clasps or attachments to your remaining teeth and can be taken out for cleaning and maintenance.
Q. If I get a root canal, do I need a crown?
While a root canal often weakens a tooth, making a crown necessary to protect it in most cases, some situations may not require one. The need for a crown depends on factors like the remaining natural tooth structure and the tooth's location. Similarly, a tooth may need a crown for reasons other than a root canal.