FAQ

Sensitive teeth often come from gums that have slightly receded. This recession allows the underlying dentin to show through, giving water and food easier access to the nerve. To manage this, there are several toothpastes, gels, and professional dental treatments that can help. Speak with us in more detail if you experience ongoing sensitivity.

Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to care for your teeth and gums consistently. Keeping a daily routine helps minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria surround the teeth and enter the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed, and may bleed. Regular hygiene visits are essential to prevent the condition from worsening. During your visit, our hygiene team will demonstrate proper flossing and home care techniques to help prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is a silent condition that begins with little or no symptoms. It’s caused by bacteria that infect the gums and surrounding tissues. The early stage is called gingivitis. If left untreated, the gums become irritated and inflamed, leading to more serious symptoms such as:

• Bad breath
• Gum recession
• Gum sensitivity to acidic foods
• Abscesses
• Tooth pain
• Tooth loss

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires immediate attention. Through a series of periodontal cleanings, root planing and scaling, laser therapy, and localized antibiotics, this condition can be managed. Periodontal surgery is only necessary for advanced cases.

Silver fillings, also known as amalgam, have been used for decades and are made from a metal alloy. The metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, helping seal the tooth and prevent bacteria from entering. White fillings, or composite restorations, are made from durable resin materials that blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. These fillings provide strong, aesthetic results while protecting your tooth from decay.

Today’s dentistry offers several ways to enhance your smile, including:

• Tooth whitening
• Bonding
• Porcelain veneers
• Porcelain crowns

We can customize a treatment plan to meet your goals and help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

Tooth whitening is a safe, affordable way to enhance your smile. Modern formulas include fluoride to reduce tooth and gum sensitivity. Whitening treatments should be done under professional supervision after a cleaning and exam. With proper care, results can last for years—though beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can reduce longevity.

Bonding is a simple, cost-effective procedure used to close gaps, repair chips, and change tooth color. Results are immediate, often completed in a single visit. However, bonded areas can darken over time from coffee, tea, or wine—similar to natural enamel.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-crafted shells that bond directly to your natural teeth to change their size, shape, and color. This two-visit procedure can transform darkened, worn, or uneven teeth, helping you achieve a more youthful, radiant smile.

Crowns are durable restorations that completely cover a tooth, improving both function and appearance. In as few as two visits, crowns can restore strength to damaged teeth while achieving a natural look that blends seamlessly with your smile.

A dental implant is a titanium replacement for a missing tooth root. Placed gently into the jawbone, the implant fuses with bone over time to create a strong foundation for a custom crown. The procedure involves minimal discomfort and offers a permanent, natural-looking solution for missing teeth.

• Dental implants look and function like natural teeth.
• They’re a permanent, long-term solution for missing teeth.
• Routine dental hygiene keeps them healthy and strong.
• They help prevent bone loss and tooth shifting.
• They eliminate the need for removable dentures.
• They don’t require altering adjacent teeth like traditional bridges.

With today’s advancements, most people are candidates for dental implants. Exceptions may include those with chronic illness, heart disease, or severe osteoporosis. A consultation will determine if implants are the right choice for you.

The average dental implant process takes three to four visits. First, we take X-rays and impressions for a surgical guide. The implant is then placed into the jaw under local anesthesia. After a few months of healing, we’ll create and attach your custom porcelain crown, completing your restoration with a natural, lasting result.

Costs vary depending on your individual needs and the complexity of treatment. We recommend scheduling an implant consultation to review your options, procedure details, and full cost estimate.

With routine hygiene visits and good home care, dental implants can last 30 years or even a lifetime.

Yes! Please contact our office to learn more about the flexible financing options available to help you achieve your perfect smile today.