FAQs

FAQs

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth often occur because of a receding gumline. This issue exposes the underlying dentin in your teeth, making them more sensitive to the touch. You can manage this by using toothpaste or gels designed for sensitive teeth.

Talk to our team to discuss dental procedures to help minimize overly sensitive teeth.

What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?

Good teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It’s also a good idea to visit the dentist for regular checkups and routine cleanings. Sticking to a diligent daily routine will significantly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria surround the teeth and enter the gums, causing irritation, inflammation, or bleeding. Regular dental visits are recommended to prevent this condition from progressing. During these appointments, our team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and oral hygiene protocol for home care to prevent periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a silent disease, as it begins with little or no symptoms. The condition worsens if it’s not treated properly, and more noticeable symptoms will appear, including:

• Bad breath
• Gum recession
• Sensitivity to acidic foods
• Abscesses
• Tooth pain
• Tooth loss

How do you treat periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Fortunately, it can be controlled through a series of services, including:

• Periodontal cleanings
• Scaling and root planing
• Laser therapy
• Local antibiotics
• Periodontal surgery (only necessary for severe cases)

What is the difference between a white filling and a silver filling?

Silver (amalgam) fillings are made from a metal alloy and have been around for decades. Because of its incredible strength, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal can expand and contract from hot and cold temperatures in the mouth, allowing little bacteria to enter a tooth once it’s been filled.

White (composite) fillings are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that looks and feels like your existing tooth structure. This restoration is created with a tooth-colored resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay.

How can I improve my smile?

Today’s cosmetic dental treatments can help enhance your smile in no time! For an exact consultation, please contact our office so we may provide you with a customized treatment plan. Some of the cosmetic procedures we offer include:

• Tooth whitening
• Bonding
• Porcelain veneers
• Porcelain crowns

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a cost-effective and safe procedure used to create a beautiful, brighter smile. Over the years, fluoride has been added to the whitening product to reduce the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity. Tooth whitening must be done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning and be monitored by your dentist.

Results can last for several years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember – if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

What is bonding?

Bonding is a cost-effective procedure used to fill gaps or change a tooth’s color. You will have an incredible new smile within a few hours! Like tooth whitening, bonding may change color over time from overconsumption of coffee, tea, cola, and wine.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of material that we bond directly to the surface of your teeth. They’re designed to completely transform your smile by changing the size, shape, and color of your teeth. The entire veneer procedure can take as few as two visits.

Patients often get veneers to repair fractured, darkened, or crooked teeth. People also frequently ask for this cosmetic solution to feel and look younger!

What are crowns?

Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth. They’re often used to protect a damaged or weakened tooth, but they can also change the size, shape, and color of a tooth in as little as two visits.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth and its root. It consists of a titanium screw inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jawbone. After a couple of months, the implant will fuse to the bone, creating an anchor for the new tooth to be mounted on top. Sedation options make dental implant procedures more manageable for anxious patients.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

• Looks and functions like your natural teeth
• Permanent solution for missing teeth
• Easy to maintain
• Decreases the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss
• Replaces the need for removable dentures
• Focuses only on the missing tooth or teeth

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Significant advancements in dentistry make most people quality candidates for dental implants. There may be exceptions, including patients with chronic illness, heart disease, or severe osteoporosis.

What does the dental implant procedure involve?

The average dental implant procedure takes three to four visits.

During your first appointment, we will get an x-ray of the area and take an impression for a surgical guide. During the next visit, we will place the implant by creating a minor incision in the gumline. You will be under local anesthesia during this process, and additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist.

You should return in approximately three months for your final appointment, where we will place the porcelain crown over the implant.

How much does a dental implant cost?

Dental implant costs will vary from dentist to dentist. Always schedule a consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.

How long does a dental implant last?

Dental implants can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime with routine dental appointments and proper home care.

Does your office offer financing for services provided?

Contact our office to discuss our available options to improve your smile at an affordable rate!