Frequently Asked Questions

X-Rays

  • Dental x-rays are safe. However, they do require a small amount of radiation. This amount of radiation is less than that of flying on an airplane.

  • The cost of dental xrays depends on many factors, from the type of xray to your dental insurance coverage. Our team can provide you an estimate based on the number and type of xrays needed. Most dental insurance plans cover xrays, however, we always recommend checking your individual dental insurance plan benefits.

  • Dental xrays are recommended every 12 months for healthy adults. If you are receiving dental treatment, present with symptoms or a dental related disease, xrays may be recommended more often.

Periodontal Disease

  • Periodontal diseases are the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and the supporting tissue of teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and irritated – they may also bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, bone loss can be seen causing teeth to loosen, and eventually fall out.

  • It is advisable to treat periodontal diseases as they arise. Expect tooth loss at a rapid rate if left untreated.

  • Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. Treatments range from a deep cleaning to surgery. No matter what type of treatment you have, it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene after treatment to prevent progression of the disease.

  • Periodontal disease is classified as an infection, and the bacteria that causes periodontal disease can be transmitted by saliva. Therefore if you are married to a spouse with periodontal disease, then your chances of having gum problems are higher.

  • The bone loss associated with periodontitis (the advanced stage of periodontal disease) cannot be reversed, only slowed and maintained through surgical and non-surgical therapy. However, gingivitis can be reversed. Therefore, it is important to catch periodontal disease in its early gingivitis stage.

Restorative Dentistry

  • Restorative dentistry is the practice of whatever it takes to keep your mouth healthy and fully functioning. This includes a number of procedures, for example, dental fillings, dental implants, dentures or crowns. Practicing restorative dentistry does not require any type of specialization. A general dentist practices restorative dentistry every day. The procedures are preventive and corrective in nature to ensure your mouth and teeth stay as healthy as possible.

  • Restorative dentistry includes a number of procedures, including but not limited to, fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures.

Root Canals

  • Root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root of the tooth, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth. When a root canal is completed, the inflamed or infected pulp (inside or nerve of the tooth) is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.

  • Depending on the amount of infection in your tooth, root canal therapy may require one or two appointments. On average, a root canal takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. If you are having treatment on a larger tooth with multiple roots, it can take up to a couple hours.

  • For most patients, getting a root canal feels just like getting a filling! You’ll feel some pressure and vibration. Root canals get a bad rep from the media, but they are much easier than most patients believe them to be.

  • There is no need for downtime after a root canal. Most patients return to their scheduled activities the same day!

  • After a root canal procedure, we recommend you eat soft foods to avoid irritation and to allow your mouth to heal quickly. Skip hard and sticky foods until your tooth has a crown placed on it! After a root canal, your tooth is prone to cracking and breaking. Please wait until your numbness wears off before you eat so that you don’t accidentally bite an area that has no sensation. Numbing usually wears off within 1-3 hours from the injection.

Cosmetic Dentistry

  • The main goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the look of your smile. Although cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective rather than essential, some treatments also provide restorative benefits. Cosmetic procedures may include, but are not limited to, Invisalign, veneers, crowns, fillings, and implants.

  • Cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by a dental insurance plan. However, in some circumstances, cosmetic procedures may receive contribution from a dental insurance plan on a case by case basis.

  • The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies greatly, depending on the treatment the patient needs. It is best to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors to receive the best estimate.

  • Cosmetic dentistry can fix a variety of problems and focuses on beautification of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry procedures can fix broken, chipped, crooked, stained, or missing teeth. In order to learn what the possibilities are for your smile, please schedule a consultation with one of our doctors.

Veneers

  • Dental veneers are shells of tooth-colored material designed to cover the surface of teeth and improve their appearance. They are bonded to the tooth to change the shape, color, size, or even length.

  • Veneers can range from $1,200-$2,200 depending on the dentist or specialist placing the veneers or the type of veneers used for treatment.

Teeth Whitening

  • The cost of whitening your teeth can vary depending on the type of whitening used. Take home whitening options start at $15, whereas in-office whitening can range from $400-800. In order to determine which option would be best for you, please schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.

  • Teeth whitening is a simple process. Whitening products contain one of two tooth bleaches (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaches break stains into smaller pieces, which makes the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter. Not all teeth will whiten, therefore it is important to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors prior to choosing your method of whitening.

    In office teeth whitening is safe, however, you may experience some symptoms associated with whitening. There are few minor side effects that a patient may or may not experience after whitening. These include sensitive teeth and gum irritation. It is best to closely follow the directions provided to you by your dental provider to ensure a comfortable whitening experience.

  • Teeth whitening can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the patient’s habits. Teeth will stain more quickly with smoking, drinking staining liquids like wine, tea, and coffee, or eating staining foods like berries.

  • In general, we do not recommend whitening toothpastes as they are often abrasive and can damage the teeth or cause sensitivity. If you looking to brighten and whiten your smile, please schedule a consultation to see which whitening options would work best for you.

  • Most dental insurances do not cover any cosmetic procedures, such as whitening.

  • Teeth whitening is a simple process. Whitening products contain one of two tooth bleaches (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaches break stains into smaller pieces, which makes the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter. Not all teeth will whiten, therefore it is important to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors prior to choosing your method of whitening.

TMJ/Jaw Pain

  • The temporomandibular joint or TMJ acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. Dysfunction, or TMJ disorder, can lead to pain and discomfort. Jaw pain, difficulty chewing, facial pain, headaches, and clicking and locking of the jaw joint are some of the symptoms. Common treatments include medications, night guards, and physical therapy. Pain related to the jaw is not normal and may be very serious. If you believe you may have TMD, or TMJ Disorder, please schedule an emergency consultation with one of our doctors right away.

  • TMJ disorder needs treatment right away. TMD is primarily treated with custom splints, such as a nightguard. It is important to see a doctor for one of these splints or night guards. Do not order a guard online or purchase one over-the-counter because these guards could make symptoms much worse. Other modalities of treatment include botox, physical therapy, and medications. If a particular case of TMD is severe, it may be recommended for the patient to see a TMJ specialist. In order to treat TMJ disorder, it is important to start with a consultation with one of our doctors to determine which form of treatment would be best for you.

  • TMD, or TMJ disorder, is serious. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder may lead to severe pain and decreased quality of life. If not treated correctly and promptly, one may spend their life in severe discomfort or need joint replacement surgery.

  • If you are experiencing jaw pain, it could be due to a number of reasons. It is very important that you schedule an emergency visit if you are having jaw pain. Some of the most common reasons for jaw pain are an infection of the tooth or gums, wisdom teeth, cavities or severe clenching and grinding of the jaws.

Botox

  • Botox is an injectable drug doctors can use to treat wrinkles and facial creases, as well as to treat side effects from muscle pain and migraines caused by clenching.

    While the injection is being administered, you will feel a slight sting or pinch at the time of injection.

  • On average the effects of Botox last 3-4 months.

  • Botox is administered in units and can cost anywhere from $8-10/unit

  • In some patients the effects of Botox can start to be seen in as quickly as 24-48hrs, but best results are typically seen within 7-10 days following the injections.

  • There have been no studies done on pregnant women to test the effects on an unborn child, so Botox treatment is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • When botox is injected into the muscle, it blocks the signal to tell the muscles to contract, causing the muscle to relax. When the muscle is relaxed, it will no longer be able to fold the tissue above the muscle and allows the tissue to lay flat over the bones and wrinkles in that area soften or fade away.

    Botox is considered safe to use when given in small doses and administered by a licensed healthcare provider. Possible side effects include: bruising, temporary pain at the injection site, redness, nausea, headaches and temporary facial drooping or weakness.

Dental Implants

  • A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium (or zirconia), that serves as a substitute for the root of the tooth. A connector, known as an abutment, is placed on, or built into, the top of the dental implant, which connects it to the replacement tooth. Finally, a crown, a replacement tooth, is custom made to match your natural teeth, completing the dental implant.

  • Price of implants can range from $1,200-$2,800 depending on the dentist placing the implant, type of implants, and complexity. Additional procedures may be needed along with implant placement which is determined on a case by case basis. It is best to schedule a consultation to receive the most accurate estimate for your dental implant.

  • Few dental insurances contribute towards dental implants at this time. It is best to check your individual dental insurance plan benefits.

  • When implants are maintained with good oral hygiene through proper brushing and flossing, they can service a patient for a lifetime. Dental implants are a great choice for replacing spaces or hopeless teeth.

Schedule Your Next Visit

We are currently accepting new patients. Give us a call today to schedule your first appointment.

Get in touch →