Q & A

 

Why are my teeth sensitive?
Some teeth become sensitive when your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through, which gives water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and even some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.

What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Great teeth and gum care starts at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual basis. By keeping to a daily routine, you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and oral hygiene protocol for home care.

What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surround the teeth and enter the gums. In the early stages, the condition is known as "gingivitis." The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms appear. They include:

•Bad breath
•Gum recession
•Gum 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. Through a series of periodontal cleanings, root planing & scaling, laser therapy and local antibiotics, this condition can be controlled.  Periodontal surgery is only necessary in severe cases.

What is the Difference Between a White Filling and a Silver Filling?
Silver fillings, known as amalgam, have been around for decades. Made from a metal alloy, it is the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This prevents bacteria from entering a tooth once filled, keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White fillings, also known as composites, are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure.  This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay. Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite will match your tooth color.

How Can I Improve My Smile?
There are several ways to enhance your smile. Here are a few:

•Tooth whitening
•Bonding
•Porcelain veneers
•Porcelain crowns

We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth whitening is a cost-effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Over the years, flouride has been added to the whitening product. This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity. Tooth whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.

The whitening can last for a number of 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 in front teeth and to change tooth color. The immediate results are amazing. Within a few hours, you will have a great smile! Bonding, like tooth whitening, may change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola and wine.

What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are attached directly on your natural teeth. Adding beautiful veneers can take as few as two visits. Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Many times, patients ask for porcelain veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

What are Crowns?
Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth. Crowns will change the size, shape and color of your teeth in as few as 2 visits.

What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the dental implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth when it's installed.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
•Look and function like your natural tooth.
•Permanently replace missing teeth.
•Are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
•Decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease,  tooth movement,
and further tooth loss.
•Replace the need for a removable full or partial denture.
•Affect only the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve
the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
With major advancements in dentistry and dental implants, most people are candidates for dental implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.

What does the dental implant procedure involve?
The average dental implant procedure takes 3 - 4 visits.

During the first visit, x-rays are taken and dental impressions are made.

During the second visit, the implant is placed. A local anesthetic is applied to the area.  (Any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist.) A minor incision is made and the implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area is then covered with sutures. All of this is accomplished with little or no pain.

In about 3 months, we'll attach the porcelain crown that will become your new tooth.

How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Fees for dental implants vary. Always schedule an implant consultation to discuss the procedure and all the fees involved before you get started.

How long does a Dental Implant last?
With routine dental hygiene and proper home care, a dental Implant can last a lifetime.

Does your office offer financing for services provided?
Yes! Please contact us to discuss your financial options