DENTAL CARE – FAQs
Have a question about your dental care? Below, we answer a few of the questions our patients most frequently ask. If you don’t find the information you’re looking for below, do not hesitate to contact our staff today!
General Dentistry
How often should I visit the dentist?
Though it varies from patient to patient, we recommend all patients go to the dentist for a regular teeth cleaning and check-up at least twice per year. Some patients, depending on their dental needs and any issues that may arise, may require more frequent visits. Things like smoking, diabetes, orthodontic treatment and gum disease can put patients in this “higher risk” category.
Why are twice annual dental check-ups necessary?
Routine dental exams help you keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. You can’t always see or feel dental problems as they’re happening, and coming in twice a year allows your dentist to find and treat any issues before they have the chance to grow into something more serious.
What are dental X-rays for?
Dental X-rays allow us to examine the growth and development of your teeth in ways that aren’t visible during a regular dental exam. X-rays can also assist in detecting any new cavities and in determining your gum health. We use the latest technology to ensure the X-ray process is safe and comfortable for all patients.
Restorative Dentistry
What are dental crowns? How are they used?
Dental crowns are tooth-like “caps” that are placed over top of a patient’s natural tooth. Dental crowns are often used to restore teeth that have been damaged, broken or are severely discolored.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent option for restoring damaged or missing teeth. However, because dental implants are embedded into the jawbone, a patient must have adequate bone in order to support the implant. If adequate bone is not available, bone grafting is an option. However, most patients can receive dental implants without problems. Schedule a consultation for an evaluation of your unique situation.
Cosmetic Dentistry
What are invisible braces?
Invisible braces are a series of clear, plastic aligners that gradually re position your teeth over time. Dr. Adam Smooke offers Invisalign®, which are virtually invisible and straighten your teeth without disrupting your lifestyle. Invisalign® retainers are also removable, which makes it much easier to brush and floss as normal.
What options do I have for professional-grade teeth whitening?
We offer several options to help patients brighten their smiles. Dr. Adam Smooke offers in-office teeth whitening services, which take about an hour and utilize a light source to accelerate the effects of our whitening gel. We also offer take-home whitening trays so you can use them in the convenience of your own home whenever you would like. We’ll custom-fit your trays to your mouth to ensure they fit your teeth perfectly. Lumineers® are a more permanent option, and involve placing a thin porcelain veneer directly over your teeth.