FAQ’S (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

Why doesn′t my dentist just accept payment from my insurance company? I don′t have dental insurance and can′t afford to go to the dentist. What can I do and why does dentistry cost so much anyway?
What′s the difference between the bleaching I can do at home with a kit from the store and the bleaching that my dentist does?

In-office teeth whitening is performed by trained dental professionals which means you’ll get safe and reliable results. The results you’ll get from professionally administered whitening tend to be better because dentists have access to higher-concentration bleaching gels.

At-home teeth whitening is a do-it-yourself alternative to professional teeth whitening that typically costs less than professionals solutions you’d get at your dentist’s office. You should be aware that at-home whitening products have lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide so they rarely offer the same degree of shade changes that you would get from whiteners that your dentist uses. If you’re looking for a slight whitening effect, these can help but if you’re looking for a more extreme whitening effect you’re going to be frustrated by the results you get at home.

My dentist is recommending treatment (I know nothing about). What should I do?

The answer to this question is very simple, make inquiries. Simple as it may seem, many people shy away from doing this because they don’t want to look dumb or pushy, which later causes them to have fear and doubt about the dental procedure.

You will notice how simpler it will be to make better decisions when you understand what the recommended dental procedure entails. Additionally, you will feel relaxed and confident when you decide to go in for the procedure.

Do I really have to go to the dentist every six months? Do I need x-rays at each visit?

It takes at least 6 months for clinical or radio-graphic (X-ray) changes to occur on the teeth that are necessary for the accurate diagnosis of decay. Delaying your check up any longer might mean that the disease could be spreading through the teeth and gums. It’s not worth the risk.

So if you’d prefer to avoid complex dental treatment like extractions and root canal therapy as well as saving your time and money, book in for a regular check up with your dentist.

When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?

Your child’s first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child’s age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child proper home cleaning such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child’s dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child’s age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed.