How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two (2) visits per year.

What should I expect during my appointment?

One of our staff members will compile your medical and dental history during your first visit. We will then examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, and make X-Rays of your teeth as needed. After we review your dental profile, we will discuss a diagnosis with you. If treatment such as a root canal (endodontics), brace (orthodontics) or oral surgery is needed, we will plan to treat you in our office or refer you to a specialist. We will discuss your options for treatment and fee payment and help you determine the best plan to fit your needs.

What if I have an emergency?

Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will be glad to work you into our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. After hours, over the weekend and during holidays, please call our office for the doctor's emergency contact number.

Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?

Yes. We accept many types of dental insurance and will process your claim for you upon receipt of your co-payment. We accept most major credit cards, including Master Card, Visa and Citi Health dental charge card, which you can obtain (upon credit approval) by applying in our office

What if I have a gap in my teeth or a chipped tooth?

Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually and permanently attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Bonding utilizes a composite material made of plastic to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth.

How can I stop the spread of gum disease?

Periodontal disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Early and moderate periodontal disease may exhibit few, if any, symptoms. However, warning signs of advanced periodontal disease may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; permanent that are loose or seperating; or changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

During each routine checkup, your dentist will examine you for periodontal disease. A periodontal probe is used to determine if there is any breakdown in the gum tissue attachment or if pockets have developed between your gums and teeth.

How can I prevent tooth decay?

Tooth enamel is hard yet porous. Plaque on the surface of your teeth caqn produce acids that seep into the pores of the enamel. This process, called desmineralization, can create a weak spot on the surface of the tooth that may become a cavity if left untreated.

To help strengthen weak spots and exposed roots and prevent the early stages of tooth decay, brush regularly with a fluoridated toothpaste. Regular flossing and fluoride mouth rinses, as well as regular profesional cleanings, will help prevent cavities and preserve your oral health.

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a well-established procedure in cosmetic dentistry. Furthermore, carbamide peroxide, the active ingredient, has been safely used for many years in the treatment of gums and other oral soft tissue.

The whitening process is effective on most discolored teeth. Darker stains, such as those caused by anti-biotics, may take longer to respond to treatment. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the duration of time that the system is used.

What is Root Canal treatment?

In healthy teeth, the interior of the tooth is filled with tissue (pulp). Once the tooth is injured, cracked, or decayed, it is necessary to open the tooth and clean out the infected tissue in the center. This space is then filled and the opening sealed. During the procedure the area around the tooth is frozen. Sometimes, difficulties may be encountered during or after root canal treatment. This may require the use of medication or involve further treatment. A crown or cap may be necessary to protect the tooth, once the root canal treatment has been completed.

What is a Crown/Cap?

A crown or cap is a cover that fits over a properly prepared tooth that has been damaged by decay or accident, or is badly stained or shaped.

A crown can be made of acrylic, metal, porcelain, porcelain and metal, or resined metal. All-porcelain crowns look more like your natural teeth, and therefore are usually used for front teeth, while porcelain with metal underlay has more strength and is good for crowns in the back of the mouth. Sometimes all-metal crowns are used for back teeth because of the metal's strength.

Will I be comfortable throughout treatment?

The days of people having negative experiences at the dentist are virtually over. No more scary "needles" or pain. Today's advanced technologies assure your complete comfort.

Those patients who choose conscious sedation actually "sleep" during almost the entire procedure. You can smile and eat with confidence. Our team will provide you with all the support and comforts to make your experience a great one.

Why is it important to use Dental Floss?

Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the gums. Also, when plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it hardens and turns into calculus (tartar).