FAQ

Yes. We encourage you to try to make it to your appointment 10 minutes early. We want to make sure we have all the required paperwork so your visit will be a great experience.

Please bring your insurance information and any other important documents that we may need.

We prefer that the parent or legal guardian be present at least during check-in.

We do ask that you pay for your portion at the time of service.

Cleanings usually last 1 to 1.5 hours. The average time for other visits will depend on the treatment you are receiving.

We do have a play area for children. We just ask that children not receiving treatment are supervised at all times.

Flossing reduces the bacteria in your mouth. Brushing removes some bacteria, but flossing reaches the areas a toothbrush can’t. Skipping flossing lets plaque build up between teeth and eventually harden into tartar, which only a dentist can remove.

Lead by example and make it enjoyable. Children want to do the things their parents do — if your children see you brushing and displaying good dental habits, they will follow. Starting at an early age helps too.

Brush and floss consistently every day, limit sugar intake, and keep up with regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money, and often unnecessary discomfort.

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and in water. It’s important to dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by making your tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks.

Sealants are a thin coating painted on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They act as a barrier, protecting your teeth against decay-causing bacteria.

Saliva is the mouth’s natural mouthwash, and it slows while you sleep — which is why most people experience morning breath. Bacteria on the teeth and tongue break down food particles, producing sulfur compounds.

Certain foods and drinks stain teeth. Hot coffee and tea are particularly problematic because temperature changes cause teeth to expand and contract, allowing stains to penetrate. Acidic foods also open the pores of tooth enamel, making staining easier.

The short answer is maybe. Rinse the tooth without scrubbing, place it in your mouth between cheek and gum or under your tongue, and do not force it back into the socket. See a dentist immediately. If you can’t store it in your mouth, wrap it in a clean cloth and immerse it in milk.

Try a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. If gentle brushing and desensitizing toothpaste don’t help, see your dentist — in-office compounds can be applied to the tooth roots, and high-fluoride home care products may also be recommended.

Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which if left untreated can cause permanent jaw bone destruction and possible tooth loss. It has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, low birth weight, pre-term delivery, and respiratory disease.

Bleeding gums typically indicate gingivitis or early periodontal disease. It may be uncomfortable, but continued gentle brushing helps reduce inflammation. Schedule a visit for a periodontal screening so we can determine the level of disease and the right treatment.

In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.

Results vary. Some whitening toothpastes don’t change the intrinsic color of the tooth, and effective stain-removing toothpastes may use harsh abrasives that damage enamel and increase sensitivity with repeated use. We endorse KöR Whitening, and recommend consulting your dentist before trying a whitening toothpaste.

Pregnant women can experience pregnancy gingivitis — swelling, bleeding, redness, or tenderness in the gum tissue. Keeping up with your hygiene visits during pregnancy is especially important; let us know and we’ll tailor your care accordingly.

Yes — denture wearers may not worry about decay, but ill-fitting appliances and mouth sores can develop. We recommend an annual visit (or sooner if soreness develops) to prevent small problems from becoming complicated ones.