Curious about your next visit at the dentist? Start here to see if we have the answers already.
Scroll Down To See Our Answers To Frequently Asked Questions
Bleeding gums can be caused by numerous things including gingivitis, brushing too hard, infrequent flossing, certain medications such as blood thinners, pregnancy, or poor fitting hardware. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, it is recommended that you visit your dentist as soon as possible.
A cavity is fixed by removing the decayed material in the tooth and replacing it with a color-matched composite in a procedure referred to as a filling. In some cases, decay can encompass too much of the tooth for a filling to be adequate. In these cases, removal and replacement of the tooth may be necessary. (insert link to fillings)
A chipped tooth can be fixed multiple ways depending on the location and size of the chip. Usually grinding and smoothing a chip or replacing the chip with color-matched composite will restore function and aesthetic. (insert link to chipped tooth repair)
A missing tooth can be replaced via 5 options depending on the medical and financial needs of the patient. The options are an implant, an implant supported bridge, a tooth supported bridge, a partial denture, or a flipper. An implant is the best option for replacing a single missing tooth as a post is inserted into the jaw and then fitted with a ceramic crown abutment, leading to a replacement tooth that retains full functionality. An implant supported bridge may be an option when multiple teeth need to be replaced. Implants are placed on either side of the affected area. A multiple tooth abutment, or bridge, is then placed over the affected area and aesthetics and functionality is restored. A tooth supported bridge is an option when two strong teeth are adjacent to the missing tooth. The healthy teeth are drilled down and a multiple teeth abutment is placed over the healthy teeth, providing an aesthetic and relatively functional replacement. A partial denture is an option when multiple teeth are missing but some healthy teeth still remain. A partial denture is crafted to match gum and teeth color and is fitted to replace the missing teeth. Finally, a flipper is an option for those looking to restore the aesthetic of their missin tooth but are not needing restored function. A removable retainer holding a replacement tooth is fitted to the remaining teeth, restoring the aestethic of your smile.
Improving a smile starts at home with good oral care. A straighter, brighter smile can be achieved by alignment trays and bleaching treatment. Regular cleanings every 6 months are also very important for those looking to improve their smile. Cleanings are not only important for cleaning any bacteria that may be damaging your smile, but it is also a way for both you and the dentist to ensure everything is being done to reach the desired improved smile. If there is disease in the mouth, more intensive procedures such as fillings, crowns, veneers, root canals, etc., may be options for improving a smile.
If you are afraid of the dentist, the best solution is to open and honest of your fears, allowing for the dentist and staff to properly accomodate them. We are here to do everything in our power to make visiting the dentist and maintaining proper oral care a pleasurable experience.
If you are experiencing tooth pain begin by gently swishing warm water to remove any debris. Carefully use dental floss to remove any remaining debris around pain site. Consider taking an over-the-counter pain medication to reduce the pain. If the pain is caused by trauma, use a cold compress outside of the mouth and seek medical attention.
It is recommended that you visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for a regular cleaning. Besides removing plaque and bacteria from the hardest to reach places in your mouth, a cleaning also serves as a regular check up for all aspects of your oral health. From cancer screening to early detection of cavities, bi-annual visits will save you time and money, not to mention improve overall oral health.
Dental X-Ray technology has improved immensely as our industry has continued to strive for the safest x-ray radiographs possible. The American Dental Association (ADA) has concluded that current radiation emission from dental x-rays are minimal in the overall exposure humans receive from other man-made and natural sources. Dental x-rays are an extremely important tool in preventative treatment, as they can provide insights into monitoring an oral injury or trauma, oral infections, and potential orthodontic needs. If you are concerned about x-ray radiation exposure, address your concerns with the staff before your exam.
A cavity, also known as a carie or tooth decay, is a tiny hole in the tooth caused by plaque. Plaque forms when bacteria is allowed to build up on the teeth. The plaque then deteriorates the outer enamel, working its way to the softer inner dentin. As the acidic plaque continues to work its way into the tooth, it reaches the inner tooth material (pulp) where all the nerves and blood vessels in the tooth are located. The resulting inflammation will cause the pulp to attempt to expand, however, with no space, the result is a throbbing tooth ache.
The longevity of dental restorations depends on the specific restoration and the homecare of the restoration. In general, restorations can last even longer than predicted when cared for properly.
The best way to whiten teeth is using custom-fitted trays with a peroxide gel. It is important to have custom-fitted trays made when bleaching with a peroxide, as ill fitting trays can cause gel to leak to the gums, damaging your gums. Through our office, you are able to either schedule an in office peroxide treatment, where a higher concentration is used under observation of our team. You are also able to have the trays custom-fitted and purchase lower concentration peroxide gels to bleach from the comfort of your own home.