 | FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What happens at my first visit?
Q.How much does it cost for an office consultation and how long does it take?
Q.What is aesthetic dentistry?
Q.If my gums bleed, should I still brush in that area?
Q.What does it mean if my gums bleed?
Q.What if I don't like the excessive or uneven display of my gums?
Q.How can I make my teeth whiter?
Q.What can you tell me about amalgam or silver filings?
Q.What if I have missing teeth?
Q.What are your payment options?
| Q. | What happens at my first visit?
| | A. | In order to treat each and every patient, as an individual with unique dental needs it is vital to completely assess their current oral health. We perform an oral cancer screening, we look at muscles and joints that open and close the mouth. We will look at your teeth, gums and bone that hold the teeth in (the peridontium). We then take photos and x-rays as necessary. With this information you and your doctor can determine the treatment that is right for you. |
 Top of page| Q. | How much does it cost for an office consultation and how long does it take?
| | A. | We offer a free consultation that could take from 5 to 15 minutes. Not only will you meet the staff and get a feel for the office, but all your concerns and questions will be addressed. |
Top of page | Q. | What is aesthetic dentistry?
| | A. | Aesthetic dentistry is a facet of dentistry that deals with enhancement, restoration and maintenance of optimal dental health specifically designed for you. It is based on artistic creation in a framework of sound scientific principles. It utilizes the most advanced techniques and materials to give natural looking and feeling results that can greatly enhance your life. |
Top of page | Q. | If my gums bleed, should I still brush in that area?
| | A. | Yes. If your gums are bleeding it probably means you are not brushing enough. Remember, brushing harder does not make up for quality time spent. In fact, on your oral hygiene brushing hard may lead into enamel erosion. Bleeding gums are not healthy. Healthy teeth and gums DO NOT bleed when they are brushed and/or flossed! |
Top of page| Q. | What does it mean if my gums bleed?
| | A. | It means you have gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is an acute infection of the gums and is reversable if treated and proper home care is maintained. Periodontitis is a silent disease that affects the bone and tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontitis is not reversible, but it is treatable. If some gingivitis is not treated, it will lead into periodontitis. |
Top of page | Q. | What if I don't like the excessive or uneven display of my gums?
| | A. | There are a variety of solutions for this problem, some involving the use of electrosurg. Artistic sculpting of the gum tissue can take a smile from good to great. |
Top of page | Q. | How can I make my teeth whiter?
| | A. | There are several methods to make teeth whiter. We can "whiten" them or utilize porcelain veneers.The best whitening technique is the dentist prescribed whitening system, a safe and effective method that changes the color of the teeth to a naturally whiter shade. DO NOT attempt to use household bleach. Veneers are an option for more difficult cases. There are many other ways to improve the appearance of your smile if you are interested in a cosmetic consultation to assess your cosmetic needs please let us know. |
Top of page | Q. | I have been thinking about having my front teeth veneered. How long does it take and how long will they last?
| | A. | It takes two working dental visits about 4-6 weeks apart. There are some planning visits prior to the working visits to determine what result you want and some follow-up bite adjustment visits. Porcelain veneers do not stain and are as strong as natural teeth. When properly placed they will not come off or break even when eating taffy, caramel, or corn on the cob. Like natural teeth, veneers may break also. You should still practice good dental home care. |
Top of page | Q. | What can you tell me about amalgam or silver filings?
| | A. | The material typically contains about 50% mercury and even though the ADA has deemed it safe, it is still considered a toxic and hazardous material outside the mouth. In fact, several European countries have totally banned the use of the material. Amalgam fillings are very unaesthetic and because of corrosion typically turn dark with time. There are more aesthetic materials to use. Our office does not place amalgam fillings. |
Top of page| Q. | My teeth seem to be weak and are always breaking or needing to be filled again. What is going on?
| | A. | This is what we call the "filled to death syndrome". It happens when the tooth has become weak from the use of silver/mercury fillings and cannot hold up under normal chewing. This problem is easily corrected with Tooth-Colored Fillings or Bonded Onlays. |
Top of page | Q. | What if I have missing teeth?
| | A. | Many options exist, including bridges, implants, or partial dentures. There is no reason to live with missing teeth. Not only does a full set of teeth improve self-esteem but also makes all the other teeth last longer by reducing stress placed on the remaining natural teeth. All options are available from our offices. |
Top of page | Q. | What are your payment options?
| | A. | Fees for our professional services may be paid in cash, personal check, major credit card or dental credit, which allows you to spread payments over an extended period of time. We don't ever want finances to keep you from receiving the dental care you deserve. |
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