Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are 8 or 80, your oral health is important. Did you know that 100 million Americans fail to see a dentist each year, even though regular dental examinations and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental disease? Here are some frequently asked questions about going to the dentist.

• I have a fear of going to the dentist. Is it really necessary for me to go if my teeth aren't hurting?
  We understand that many patients have apprehensions about dental visits including routine check-up. Whether your fear is due to a negative dental experience in the past or the appearance and sounds in the dental office, we assure you that your comfort is our first priority. Advances in modern dentistry have allowed us in making the office experience much more pleasant for most patients. Tooth pain does not occur until the infection progresses to certain extent so during routine check it allows us to diagnose dental conditions at earlier stages. Please contact us at any time to find out more about ways we can help you ease your anxiety and feel more at ease during your appointment.
• Are dental x-rays safe for my family?
  Dental x-rays emit very small amounts of radiation while images are taken. Our office employs takes appropriate measures to ensure you and your family are safe during your dental visit. Dental X rays allows us in diagnosing dental conditions and extent of the condition which are not visible in the mouth otherwise.
• Do children need dental sealants and does it protect teeth from getting cavities?
  Dental sealants are invisible protective barriers placed on healthy teeth to prevent them from developing decay. Sealants are applied to the crevices of the chewing surfaces on the teeth where bacteria often accumulate. Sealants are highly effective when placed on the teeth during childhood shortly after the teeth have erupted from the gums and before the bacteria grows in the crevices which creates cavities. These protective barriers can last for many years.
• I've tried many at-home whitening products with poor results. Is there any way I can get my teeth whiter?
  Over the counter teeth whitening products, such as toothpastes and whitening treatments, are effective for removing surface stains but is not very effective in removing deep stains accumulated for years. Our office provides Zoom whitening which is prescription-strength dental whitening and is capable of taking many years of stains off of the teeth in just a single dental visit.
• I am unhappy with the way my teeth look. What types of dental treatments are available to cosmetically alter the appearance of my teeth?
  Cosmetic dentistry has evolved to make total mouth transformations a reality for many people. Treatments are available to change the size, shape, position and color of your teeth. Whether you want to fill in a few gaps or completely change the look of your teeth, we can help you in improving your smile and confidence by various treatment options such as teeth whitening, Invisilign to change alignment of teeth, veneers, lumineers, bonding, composite filling, crown, replace missing teeth with bridge, implants, partials, dentures or implant supported restorations. We will provide you appropriate options to get the smile you have always dreamed of.
• I've heard a lot about the benefits of dental implants for tooth replacement. How do I know if they are right for me?
  Dental implants are permanent solutions for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which extensive care and are known for being ill-fitting, dental implants are permanently fixed in place and require no more maintenance than a natural tooth. Not all dental patients are candidates for dental implants. Schedule an appointment with us to find out whether dental implants could be right for you.
• My gums bleed easily and are often sore. Should I be concerned?
  Bleeding, red, or inflamed gums can be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis - which is among the prevalent diseases in America. If gum disease left untreated it can lead to gum loss, bone loss and ultimately tooth loss. Schedule an appointment at the first sign of gum disease as if gum disease are treated at earlier stages it can prevent further gum and bone loss around teeth.
• One or more of my teeth are very sensitive. Should I be concerned?
  Sensitive teeth are usually due to loss of enamel from heavy brushing, recession and root exposure near gum line which may be corrected using special sensitivity toothpaste, tooth colored fillings or gum grafts. However, it is worth mentioning to your dentist. If you have sudden or extreme tooth sensitivity, it could be a sign of underlying decay beneath the surface of your teeth or fractured tooth.
• I need a filling but do not know which type is right for me. How do I choose?
  Fillings have been around for many years and are made of different materials. Traditional silver fillings are known as amalgams and are known for their durability and affordability but over the years we found that it develops crack lines on the teeth due to shrinkage and expansion of the metal (silver filling) which ends up with crown to strengthen the tooth. Now most dentists and patients are opting for composite fillings, which are tooth-colored and more discreet than silver fillings. Composites are also durable and are mercury-free. There are options to place inlay or onlay instead of a filling, we will be happy to explain you the best option for your individual needs.
• I do not have dental insurance. How could I possibly afford dental treatment?

  Dental treatment should be affordable and accessible for everyone. We welcome most dental insurances at our office, however we do not recommend to determine necessary dental treatment solely based on insurance. We also provide reasonable options for dental treatment for patients who does not have dental insurance to allow them to maintain good oral health. Contact our financial coordinator to discuss the costs of your treatment and the ways we make it easier to pay for your dental treatment.

  All the answers given are for general information only. Your dentist will be able to answer any specific question about your case. You should consult your dentist before making any decision regarding treatment for your oral health issues.

• My teeth feel fine. Do I still need to see a dentist?
  Your teeth may feel fine, but it's still important to see the dentist regularly because problems can exist without you knowing. Your smile's appearance is important, and your dentist can help keep your smile healthy and looking beautiful. With so many advances in dentistry, you no longer have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth. Today's dentists offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence.
• What should I look for when choosing the right dentist for me?

  Choosing a dentist who "clicks" with you and your family is important, and you may wish to consider several dentists before making your final decision. During your first visit, you should be able to determine whether the dentist is right for you. During your appointment, consider the following:

  • Is the appointment schedule convenient?
  • Is the office easy to get to and close by?
  • Does the office appear to be clean and orderly?
  • Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
  • Does the dentist explain techniques for good oral health?
  • Is information about cost presented to you before treatment is scheduled?
  • Is your dentist a member of the ADA (American Dental Association)?
• How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups?

  Always remember to brush your teeth at least two times a day, and floss at least once!

  Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities.

  Avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities) and avoid tobacco (this can stain your teeth, cause gum disease, and eventually lead to oral cancer).

  Don't be afraid to brush your tongue! By brushing your tongue, you will remove food particles and reduce the amount of plaque-causing bacteria. Tongue brushing also helps keep your breath fresh.

  Be sure to schedule your routine checkup. It is recommended that you visit the dentist every six months.

• At what age should I start taking my child to see the dentist?
  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children first see a dentist as early as six months of age and no later than one year of age. During this time, your child's baby teeth will be coming in and your dentist can examine the health of your child's first few teeth. After the first visit, be sure to schedule regular checkups every six months.
• How often should I see the dentist?
  Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. Your doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.
• What is a cavity?
  A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.
• What is a filling?
  A filling is a material your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because your dentist will numb your mouth with an anesthetic. Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure to talk to your doctor about what type is best for you and your teeth.
• How often should I brush my teeth?
  According to your dentist and the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth at least two times a day. Brushing keeps your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy by removing bacteria-causing plaque. It is also recommended that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride when you brush your teeth. You should spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom teeth, and remember to brush your tongue; it will help keep your breath smelling fresh!
• When should I change my toothbrush?
  Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two to three minutes each time. Your dentist recommends that adults and children change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you've been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.
• What is gum disease?

  Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease:

  • Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
  • Extreme tooth sensitivity
  • Receding gum line
  • Abscessed teeth
• If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
  Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
• How do I schedule my next checkup?
  Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.