Frequently Asked Questions

It’s normal to have a few questions before committing to a dental office or specific dental treatment. You likely have a few yourself. To help, we’ve compiled a list of a few of questions we get asked most by potential patients. If you have other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, please reach us on our contact page – we’re happy to help.

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Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes, we do! Like any medical treatment, certain dental services come with high price tags. Basic dental coverage can save you hundreds or even thousands on some treatments. Most plans will cover multiple cleanings per year, along with exams and partial coverage for fillings and other restorative services. However, each plan varies. If you’re unsure if you’re covered for a specific treatment, give us a call and we’ll inquire for you. You can read more about insurance plans we accept here.

What kind of dentistry does your office practice?

There are different types of dentists, each with their own specialty areas. We are a general dentistry practice, providing a variety of services ranging from routine exams and x-rays to veneers, root canals, and crowns. We classify our services as preventative, cosmetic, restorative, and major dental problem treatments. Here are a few examples of each:

Preventative dentistry:

  • Cleaning and exams
  • X-rays (2D & 3D)
  • Sealants and fluoride

Cosmetic dentistry:

  • Braces and retainers
  • Teeth whitening
  • Veneers

Restorative dentistry:

  • Crowns and bridges
  • Root canals
  • Composite fillings

Treatments for major dental problems:

  • Emergency visits and surgery
  • Gingivitis
  • Enamel loss

Do I need my wisdom teeth removed?

For some, leaving wisdom teeth can cause aches or possibly infections. Down the road, this can lead to impacted teeth due to a lack of enough space to accommodate wisdom teeth, which come later and can potentially cause other teeth to shift. If you believe your wisdom teeth are causing pain or another issue, please give us a call so we can schedule you for an appointment.

I need my wisdom teeth removed. How does that work?

You’re in good company! Wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most dental procedures performed. Contrary to popular belief, the procedure is fairly straightforward and isn’t something to be scared of. Patients sometimes worry about pain involved, but the entire process is usually performed while the patient is under anesthetic.

After anesthesia is administered a local numbing agent is applied around the teeth to be removed. A small incision is them made to access the tooth. The tooth is then separated from its connective tissue. Finally, the socket is stitched closed.

What does fluoride do for the teeth?

Fluoride is a special mineral found in natural bodies of water. Our drinking water contains a sufficient amount of fluoride to galvanize our teeth, and consuming traces of this mineral is completely safe. Studies show that fluoride is not only essential for the prevention of dental caries (cavities), but it can also reverse early signs of tooth decay.

Is periodontal disease treatable?

The good news is periodontal disease – also known as gingivitis – is treatable. Depending on how far periodontal disease has progressed, symptoms can sometimes be reversed entirely – provided proper care and maintenance. Patients often need several deep cleaning sessions, which involves a process commonly known as scaling and planning. During those cleanings we remove buildup and eliminate pockets of bacteria that accumulate on your gumline. These are the culprits behind periodontal disease.

I have built up plaque. Can it be removed?

While removing plaque and tartar buildup at home is very difficult, it’s pretty straightforward for a dental hygienist. Regular dental cleanings can address this, and are useful at removing buildup from hard-to-reach places that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing alone.

Does routine teeth cleaning or deep teeth cleaning hurt?

Routine teeth cleaning may cause very mild discomfort, but most patients find the procedure simple and pain-free. Deep cleanings do get below the gumline, and some find this uncomfortable. However, this thorough type of cleaning is the best way to break up and remove bacteria that could lead to gum disease. For those who experience a higher degree of discomfort, a local anesthetic may be an option.

How can I whiten my teeth?

Big-box retailers offer a variety of at-home solutions to teeth whitening. These include whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, and hydroxide strips. Many are reasonably effective after a few days or weeks. However, if your teeth are deeply stained, our professional in-office whitening treatment is the way to go. These have much more dramatic results and lead to whiter, brighter smiles that stay that way longer.

How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend visiting us every 6 months for a routine dental check-up. This allows us to perform an x-ray examand regular teeth cleaning. We’ll also screen for potential oral health issues, such as cavities, periodontal disease, or oral cancer.