FAQs

Some people think they should only visit the dentist if they have a problem, such as a painful tooth. But regular visits to your dentist’s office help prevent these problems from starting in the first place. Dental exams give us a chance to maintain your oral health, which benefits your whole-body health, and to provide treatments that are less involved than if problems spread and worsen. Also, our team can help you reach dental goals if you have any, such as straightening or whitening your teeth, or filling in tooth gaps.

We recommend following the standard of twice-yearly exam and cleaning appointments. These routine visits are generally covered by dental insurance plans, and they provide preventive care. During these appointments, our dentists check for oral cancer and dental problems. Also, our team provides a professional cleaning that removes buildup and keeps it from turning into tooth decay or gum disease. This recommendation applies to all members of your family, including children, teens, adults and seniors. Then, additional visits may be needed for treatments or extra services, depending on your situation.

While we recommend regular checkup visits every six months, our team also encourages you to make an appointment if you have symptoms. Signs of a problem include severe pain or ongoing pain in your mouth, swollen gums, bleeding gums or bad breath. Your teeth might feel sensitive to hot or cold food or beverages. You may also notice a tooth that is chipped, cracked or otherwise damaged. Overall, any change to your teeth, gums, jaw or mouth area is cause for scheduling an appointment. The sooner you come in, the sooner our dentists can perform an exam and get the issue under control faster, more affordably and with the minimal treatment possible.

A regular at-home hygiene routine is one of the most important steps to keeping your mouth clean and free of decay, infection and disease. Our office follows the standard recommendation to brush and floss at least twice per day, ideally using toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen the tooth enamel. Keeping your oral health in good shape also includes a focus on your lifestyle. You can prevent dental problems by not using tobacco and by cutting back on sugar, or at least cleaning your mouth after consuming it. You may also choose to prevent damage by avoiding hard foods and reduce discoloration by minimizing dark foods and beverages like red wine and coffee.

During an exam visit, your designated dentist looks for health concerns. We take a look at the teeth, gums and mouth, using tools and technology to gain a better view. The check also includes your tooth placement and bite. Your dentist may also feel your lymph nodes around your neck and your facial muscles to check for signs of dental concerns. It’s important for you to share information with our dental team, including your dental history, the risk of certain diseases and symptoms you experience. Your dentist combines signs and symptoms they notice with information you share to gain the best idea of the situation and provide the right diagnosis and treatment. Make an appointment for a checkup or dental service with us by calling 614-799-9500.