FAQ

Click on the question to view the answer for each frequently asked question. If you have additional questions, please contact our office.

"Why do I need periomaintenance? Can't I just get my teeth cleaned?": The word prophy or prophylaxis cleaning means prevention. Prophylaxis appointments, or cleanings are focused on preventing diseases such as infection, bone loss, gum loss, etc. Periomaintenance means we've gone from a clean and healthy state (where only prevention is needed) into a deeper state, causing a need to address the health issues within your mouth beyond the prevention level of care.
Are implants sensitive to hot and cold?: Dental implants are not sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
Are other treatment options available?: You may want to ask your dentist the following: How do the options differ in cost? Which solution will last the longest? Do all the options solve the problem?
Do dental implants decay?: Unlike natural teeth, dental implants do not decay.
Do you accept my insurance plan?: We do accept most insurance plans, and will be glad to help you fill out and file any required paperwork. The only insurance plans that we cannot accept are those that require you to go to a particular dentist.
How can I afford services like dental veneers and tooth whitening?: We have made arrangements with multiple banks and finance companies that specifically work with healthcare professionals and clients. Interest rates can range from zero to less than most credit cards. Our friendly front office staff will help you review all available arrangements, including insurance questions. To learn more about financing cosmetic dentistry procedures such as tooth whitening or dental veneers, contact one of our locations.
How can I get tooth whitening done for the least cost?: Bleaching! Tooth whitening can be accomplished in the office or at home in four to six weeks. The best results are achieved using tooth whitening systems that allow you to bleach at home. This way you have full control over the outcome. to learn more, contact one of our offices about tooth whitening.
How can I help prevent oral cancer?: The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid factors that increase your risk of contracting it, including tobacco and heavy alcohol use. Examine your own mouth after brushing and flossing and schedule regular dental checkups at one of our locations to allow for early detection and treatment.
How can I prevent periodontal (gum) disease?: Periodontal disease can be prevented by taking exceptional care of your teeth every day by having a professional cleaning with an exam twice a year or as recommended by your dentist. Brushing your teeth, flossing, eat a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly will help prevent periodontal disease.
How do I know if I am a candidate for dental implants?: The ideal candidate for dental implants is in good general and oral health. Candidates should also have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease and sufficient bone to support the implant in the jaw.
How many stages are there in implant surgery?: There are three stages in dental implant surgery: Stage I is the placement of the implant, Stage II is the uncovering of the dental implant, and State III is the fabrication of the crown or bridge.
How many times should I floss my teeth?: You should floss at least once a day. There's an old adage among dentist: "Floss only the teeth you want to keep." If you don't want to lose your teeth, floss every day. Otherwise, you'll be more susceptible to periodontal disease with a higher likelihood of serious health consequences, e.g. heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia and infections.
How often should I have my teeth cleaned?: People accumulate plaque at different rates. Nothing is better for your teeth, gums, and over all health than a professional cleaning at our office. Although most insurance plan coverage is for a twice a year schedule, it's sensible to get your teeth professionally cleaned as often as your dental health professional advises you, even if it's every three months.
If I require fillings, what type should I get?: Where silver (amalgam) and gold were all that were used in the past for the fillings in back teeth, dental health professionals frequently use tooth-colored procelain or composite materials that are strong and extremely wear resistant. You can even give your teeth a "face life" by removing your old metal fillings and replacing them with "invisible" ones.
Is root canal treatment painful?: Despite the popular conception that it is a painful procedure, root canal (endodontic) treatment, is generally painless. It is widely thought that the perception of the root canal as painful from the pain associated with having an infected tooth. In fact, though, root canal therapy is meant to alleviate pain and discomfort.
What are the signs of periodontal (gum) disease?: Common warning signs of gum disease include: • Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth. • Red, swollen or tender gums. • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth. • Bad breath that doesn't go away. • Pus between your teeth and gums. • Loose teeth. • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
What is 'plaque' and how does it affect my teeth?: Plaque is a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If left undisturbed, the bacteria in the plaque produce byproducts that can not only irritate the gums and make them bleed, but it can also lead to periodontal disease. A daily regimen of proper brushing, flossing and rinsing (plus, regular dental visits), will help you keep your teeth healthy.
What is tartar and how can I control it?: Tartar is "hardened plaque" that has been left undisturbed. It's a black, solidified protein layer at the gum line that can only be removed safely with a dental scaling instrument during hygiene cleanings. The best way to control tartar is to brush and floss every day.
What is the difference between a DDS and a DMD?: The DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are the same degrees. The difference is a matter of semantics. The majority of dental schools award the DDS degree; however, some award a DMD degree. The education and degrees are the same.
What is the treatment for periodontal disease?: Root planing involves smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth with a thin ultrasonic instrument so gum tissue can reattach to roots that are clean and smooth to prevent tooth loss and sensitivity problems. The procedure makes it difficult for plaque to accumulate along the root surfaces. The cleaning may take two or more visits to complete. Depending on the extent of the disease you may need one or more sections (quadrants) of the mouth to be treated with scaling and root planing.
When are dental crowns a more suitable option than composite fillings?: Generally, dental crowns are necessary when larger amounts of the natural tooth structures are damaged. Dental crowns are helpful in these cases because they reinforce the integrity of the tooth and protection of its pulp.
Why are dental implants a better option than a bridge or partial denture?: Dental implants have a higher long-term success rate than bridges and partial dentures. Conventional bridges and partial dentures need to be replaced every seven to 15 years. Over time, patients may develop problems with the "anchor" teeth of the bridge, which could lead to further tooth loss and less support for replacement teeth. During this process, bone loss begins, which can eventually make patients ineligible for implants altogether. Choosing dental implants over a bridge or partial dentures gives them a more predictable long-term outcome.
Why can't I just wait until my teeth break or hurt, and then have them fixed?: Yes, you could. And many people do this. But, once teeth begin to fail, or have fractured, many times the subsequent dental work is more extensive and expensive than if these same teeth were restored and reinforced earlier. In restoring these teeth earlier, we can avoid future rooth canal therapy, extraction, surgery, and bridges. The savings in money, time, and aggravation can be enormous.
Why does the pulp need to be removed?: If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling are likely to persist. In addition, the infection can injure your jaw bones, causing more extensive damage. Without treatment, the infected tooth often requires extraction. Root canal treatment can save your tooth before removal is needed.