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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dental hygienist?
A licensed health care professional, who along with the dentist provides preventive, educational, and therapeutic services supporting total health for the control over oral diseases and the promotion of oral health.
How many times a day should I brush?
The ADA recommends brushing at least two times a day along with flossing.
Why do I need so many x-rays?
X-Rays allow your dentist to identify problems otherwise not seen, such as the area between teeth (bitewing) and underlying bone (panoramic). By taking the bitewings once a year and the panoramic every three years we can insure that we are providing you with the most accurate diagnosis with your professional cleanings.
Do you have the newest digital x-ray equipment?
Yes. We use state of the art digital x-ray equipment made by Kodak. It is a quick, easy to use imaging system that provides "on the spot" diagnoses and helps communicate treatment options more effectively. The benefit is carried on to you, our patient, by receiving 40-70% less radiation and by providing a safer treatment environment without chemicals.
What is a root canal?
When the pulp in the tooth's root is damaged, a root canal is performed to save the tooth. The procedure involves cleaning out the damaged nerve, shaping and filling the canal to prevent recontamination. The tooth is then permanently restored and eventually will need to be crowned.
What is the best way to whiten my teeth?
Most people's teeth are naturally darker than pure white. It is best to talk to your dental professional to discuss which option is best for you.
What are the signs and symptoms of teeth grinding? What is suggested treatment?
Stress is the most common factor of grinding teeth known as "bruxism". Too much caffeine in your diet can add to this already existing problem. Grinding usually takes place while you sleep. If you are waking up with a headache, toothache, or experiencing tenderness to the face and/or jaw, you may be grinding. Self relaxation techniques can sometimes help such as a warm washcloth to relax the muscles. In more severe cases a dental appliance known as a"nightguard" can be custom made to alleviate your symptoms.
If my child sucks their thumb, can this damage thier teeth?
Thumb sucking is normal. If continued thumb sucking occurs as permanent teeth erupt, it could cause improper tooth alignment. Many factors can determine if thumb sucking will cause a problem, such as how often and how long your child has sucked their thumb and how much force is used.
Can putting my baby to bed with a bottle cause dental problems?
Yes. Baby bottle syndrome as it is referred to, can cause decay. Babies' teeth are susceptible to decay as soon as they appear. You should talk to your health care professional about this for more information.
Should my child wear a sports guard?
Yes. It is strongly recommended by the MDA that both children and adults wear mouth guards when playing sports. The risk is 60 times higher that athletes will suffer damage when not wearing protection.
Why do my wisdom teeth hurt when they come in?
While they are the last teeth to erupt, there often is not sufficient room for them as they begin to push through. Therefore they put pressure on the existing teeth and have nowhere to go, causing them to have to be removed. If there is sufficient room however, they can erupt and function normally without having to be removed.
What causes tooth loss?
The most common factors are tooth decay and periodontal disease. Tooth decay is the most common in children. Periodontal disease is more common in adults and affects the gums and bone structure that support the teeth.
What causes Periodontal Diseases?
A thin, colorless, sticky film called "plaque" constantly forms on the teeth. This film contains bacteria. The bacteria uses the sugar and starches from carbohydrates to form an acid that attacks the enamel and breaks it down causing a cavity to begin. It only takes 18 hours for a cavity to begin. Plaque also causes harmful byproducts that irritate the gums, causing gingivitis, which is the beginning stage of periodontal disease. If plaque is not removed daily, it builds up into hard deposit called "calculus". If it continues to build on the gums it can cause a pocket between the teeth and gums.
Can Periodontal Diseases be prevented or controlled?
Yes. Regular professional cleanings by your dental hygienists can help. Reducing the number of carbs eaten will reduce the sugar and starches that cause plaque. Fluoride rinses and sealants placed on the teeth can also help.
When should my child have his/her first dental appointment?
Where as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend a child have his/her first appointment around age one as soon as a baby's first tooth erupts, not much can be done at this point. Most dentists will see a child at age three for their first visit.
How often should I go to the dentist?
You should go to the dentist every 6 months. When you get your teeth professionally cleaned, the bacteria under the gum line is removed. In an average healthy person, the bacteria will accumulate again in six months. In a patient with a medical problem, i.e.: diabetes, the bacteria are able to grow within three to four months.
What are my payment options?
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards, including Care Credit (see link for more info). We participate with the following insurance companies: The Guardian, United Concordia, MetLife, Delta Dental and Excellus Blue Cross/Blue Shield-Smile Saver Plan. We will bill your insurance company for you, however, we do expect payment or co-payment on the date the service is rendered. For complete details, Click Here.