Choose a question to read the answer:
How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll take measures to make sure your gums stay healthy and strong.
What do you do to maintain a safe and sterilized environment?
Your safety is important to us, so we sterilize our reusable instruments in an autoclave and use disposable products as often as possible. Each of our treatment rooms is cleaned thoroughly between patient visits. We adhere to guidelines set by the CDC and OSHA and perform weekly tests on our sterilization equipment.
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
I have been told that I grind my teeth while I sleep, and/or I clench my teeth a lot. Is this harmful?
Absolutely. Grinding and clenching teeth actually has a name; the condition is called bruxism. It can cause tooth wear and damage, like cracked and chipped teeth. These problems lead to pain and can also negatively affect how your upper and lower teeth fit together, which is known as occlusion. When occlusion is off, the jaw joints, or TMJ joints, can become stressed, which may lead to additional pain problems. Instead of dealing with all of these potential problems, let us create a custom oral appliance to stop your bruxism. Simply wear the appliance while you sleep or when you tend to grind your teeth. If you experience pain or occlusion problems, we can restore your teeth and bite, as well. Call today for a consultation!
My jaw pops and clicks. What's going on?
When the jaw joints are out of alignment, you may experience clicking and popping when you open and close your mouth. Jaw joints are clinically referred to as temporomandibular joints, and when they do not function properly, the condition is known as TMJ dysfunction. Patients experience a myriad of problems, from chronic headaches, migraines, and earaches to face, head, shoulder, and neck pain. Oral function may also be inhibited, and patients with TMJ dysfunction tend to grind their teeth. Fortunately, the condition can be corrected, in most cases, with a simple oral appliance called a nightguard. As another option, the dentist can rebuild worn teeth to correct the occlusion (how upper and lower teeth fit together) and reposition the jaw joints. Sometimes stress-relieving exercises or habit changes are beneficial, as well.
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
Our patient library is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our services page for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call us. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
What are mini dental implants?
MDIs are dental implants that hold dentures in place, and they can be surgically implanted in one day. Implant-supported dentures create a reliable hold and freedom from messy adhesives! Learn more about MDI on the Imtec website.
What are my options to replace missing teeth?
We offer bridgework, dentures, mini implants, and traditional implants to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our services page, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, the dentist can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes! Our administrative team has experience working with dental insurance and maximizing patients' benefits. We will file your claim for you, electronically when possible. Please prepare to pay your copay or deductible at your visit.