Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to wait until I can eat?
It depends on the procedure being performed that day. It can range from “immediately” to “wait until tomorrow.”
How much does my insurance cover for this procedure?
Every insurance plan is different, so coverage will vary depending on the plan you have. Most insurance companies will pre-determine approximately what they will cover.
Will I be numb for a long time?
This depends on the individual and the type of anesthesia administered, but usually 3 to 5 hours.
What is the difference between a composite filling and an inlay or onlay?
Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain or gold and are permanently cemented into place. Composites are white filling materials that are usually used to treat smaller cavities.
Why do I need a crown?
A dental crown helps restore the shape and function of a tooth that is cracked, has a large filling, or has been badly damaged by decay.
Should my child have their wisdom teeth extracted?
This varies from individual to individual and is often determined by the room available in a patient’s mouth.
Do whitening toothpastes work?
Whitening toothpaste can help remove some surface stains; however, it should not be used as a regular daily toothpaste because it can be abrasive to enamel and irritating to oral tissues.
Is my son or daughter going to need braces?
The best person to determine if your child will need braces is the orthodontist. We would recommend that you have a consultation with him or her when your child is about age of 8.
Why do I need antibiotics for a root canal?
Often, a root canal is needed because the tooth is infected. Antibiotics help fight that infection.
How long will a crown or veneer last?
This sometimes depends on a patient’s habits, but insurance companies’ actuarial reports say that about 7 to 10 years is the average longevity of a crown.
What type of toothpaste is the best?
We have two musts for toothpaste: it must contain fluoride, and it must taste good. If you don’t like the taste of the paste, you won’t brush long enough.
Should I be brushing my tongue?
Yes, bacteria hides in the nooks and crannies of your tongue, so brushing it will help remove bacteria.
How does fluoride really work?
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps remineralize teeth. It is especially important for children, orthodontic patients, and those with recession, decay, or head and neck radiation, and it has been proven to reduce dental decay, particularly on smooth tooth surfaces.
How often do you take x-rays?
Radiographs that show in between teeth, are taken once per year. Radiographs which shows the entire upper and lower jaw are taken every three to five years. Peripherals, which show the entire structure of two to three teeth at a time, are taken as needed. Full Mouth Series (FMS), which is a set of 16 to 18 films is taken every three to five years.
Why do I need a post and core if I have a root canal done?
After a root canal, a significant amount of tooth structure is often missing. A post and core are used to rebuild the tooth and provide enough support to place a crown or to use the tooth as support for a bridge
What’s the difference between the types of bleaching and how much does it cost? How long will it take and how long will it last?
Our take-home system uses professional-grade whitening gel with custom trays for excellent results. We also offer in-office Zoom! whitening, a fast, highly effective, advanced option with a unique formula not replicable at home. A take-home touch-up kit is included, and with proper care—brushing, flossing, and occasional touch-ups—your teeth can stay brighter. Touch-up products are available for purchase in our office.
Are spin style toothbrushes really better for brushing?
Spin brushes are great for adults and children, but once again it’s the time you spend brushing. If brushing is fun, the brushing time is increased.
Why do my gums bleed?
Bleeding is a sign of gum disease. There are many factors that cause bleeding, from stress to hormonal changes to build up of the plaque and calculus on the teeth.
Radiographs (X-rays) are necessary because not everything can be seen clinically. They help us evaluate bone levels, decay between teeth, tooth roots, extra or missing teeth, root canals, posts, the apex of the root, restorative materials, and normal or abnormal anatomical features of the oral structures. Without radiographs, it is difficult to make accurate diagnoses and provide proper treatment.
Why do I need an X-ray?