F.A.Q.

Your Dentistry Questions Answered

By The Experts

Welcome to Scott Family Dentistry's frequently asked questions (FAQ) page! We understand that visiting the dentist can sometimes be overwhelming, and it's natural to have questions or concerns. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident and informed about your dental care.

On this page, we have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions we receive from our patients. From basic dental hygiene to more advanced procedures, we hope to address any questions or concerns you may have about your dental health.

We believe that the more informed our patients are, the more proactive they can be in taking care of their dental health. If you have a question that isn't addressed on this page, please feel free to contact us directly and one of our experienced dental professionals will be happy to assist you.

Thank you for choosing our dental practice, and we look forward to helping you achieve optimal dental health!

General Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

Click on the appropriate question about Scott Family Dentistry and we'll give you the answer.

  • Are you accepting new patients?

    Yes! We are currently accepting new patients at our dental office in Benton.

  • What types of insurance do you accept?

    The major insurance carriers we accept can be found here. You can also call our office at 501-426-6275

  • What dental services do you perform at your office?

    A complete list of our dental services can be found here.

  • Do I need to arrive early for my appointment?

    If this is your first time visiting our dental office, we highly recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early to fill out our new patient paperwork. You can also download the form here and fax it or bring it in when you arrive.

Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our dental implants. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

    Almost anyone who is missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth are candidates for dental implants. Schedule a consultation appointment with us to make sure.

  • What are the advantages of dental implants?

    There are many benefits to dental implants including lasting a lifetime, improving your appearance, your confidence, and your ability to eat the foods you like.

  • How much do implants cost and does insurance cover them?

    In general, the cost of replacing a single tooth with a dental implant is almost the same as replacing it with a regular fixed bridge. Dental implant treatment may qualify for some insurance coverage, but situations vary. The cost will vary by patient needs, bone quantity, and region. A prosthodontist will make an assessment based on your unique needs.

  • How do I care for my dental implants?

    Well-placed and cared for dental implants have the potential to last for decades. Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth: brush, floss and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

Cosmetic Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our cosmetic dentistry. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What is cosmetic dentistry?

    Cosmetic dentistry is one or more dental treatments that enhance the appearance of teeth. This includes services such as whitening, veneers, implants, bonding, and more. Many times, multiple cosmetic procedures are combined to reach your smile goals.

  • Does dental insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?

    Typically, cosmetic dentistry is not covered by dental insurance unless some dental plans cover the partial cost of the procedure where the primary purpose is to repair a structural issue (such as crowns). Please visit our accepted insurance page and give us a call at 501-426-6275 to see if your insurance covers it!

  • What common dental problems are suitable for cosmetic dentistry?

    If you have broken or chipped teeth, your dentist can correct them through restorative dentistry. However, you may visit the dentist for cosmetic purposes if you have any of the following concerns:

    • stained or discolored teeth
    • gaps in between teeth
    • uneven teeth
    • worn down teeth
    • excess gum tissue

  • Are cosmetic treatments completely aesthetic?

    Some cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as teeth whitening, only have cosmetic benefits, but plenty of other treatments have real benefits to your oral health. When you lose a tooth, your remaining teeth tend to shift into the gap left by the missing tooth, making chewing more difficult and putting your teeth at risk for decay and gum disease. By filling that gap, bridges and implants keep your teeth where they belong and protect them. Implants work double duty, stimulating your jawbone to prevent the bone loss that is caused by losing a tooth. Even veneers, which are commonly applied to patients’ teeth for cosmetic purposes, can work to protect teeth where they have cracked, chipped, or the enamel has worn thin. While all cosmetic treatments do improve or restore the appearance of your smile, many of them also improve, restore, and protect its function as well.

Veneers Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our veneers. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What are the types of veneers?

    Porcelain and composite bonding are the most common veneer materials. Composite veneers are made of a resin that is shaped and bonded to a tooth to enhance the appearance. Porcelain veneers are usually made in a lab and are more resistant to staining, compared to other materials. 

  • Is composite bonding or porcelain veneers right for me?

    Schedule an appointment with us and the professionals at Scott Family Denistry can find which option is best for you.  If the needed changes are minor and the teeth function properly, cosmetic bonding is an appropriate choice.  If teeth are spaced, broken, dark, and/or the patient clenches or grinds their teeth, then porcelain veneers may be the preferred option.

  • How long do dental veneers last?

    Typically, a veneer lasts approximately 5-10 years. They do not require any special care other than regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the prosthodontist. If they are properly cared for then they can last much longer. Professional cleanings every 6 months and yearly exams are highly recommended.

  • How do I get veneers to match my other teeth?

    This concern will be addressed by your local dental clinic, Scott Family Dentistry. Most people get their veneers in a whiter shade than their natural teeth and then undergo tooth whitening to create a matching aesthetic.

Teeth Whitening Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our teeth whitening process. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • Is teeth whitening safe?

    Yes. Many people are under the mindset that teeth whitening is not safe, which is far from the truth. When done professionally, teeth whitening is very safe. What is important to understand is that overdoing it can be harmful. The enamel is temporarily stripped during the whitening process which, if overdone, can be harmful to the teeth long-term.

  • Will teeth whitening results last forever?

    Sadly, no. Teeth whitening results can, however, last up to five to 10 years. Patients that practice good oral health routines are more likely to see results that last longer. Brushing the teeth after every meal and avoiding drinks and foods that are heavily dyed can all aid in making the results last.

  • Is sensitivity normal from teeth whitening?

    Yes. Teeth whitening is known to cause minor sensitivity during and after the procedure. The products used for whitening contain peroxide, which is used to strip the enamel. When the enamel is stripped of the stains, the teeth are more vulnerable, which can cause temporary sensitivity to hot or cold items.

  • How often can teeth whitening be done?

    Professional teeth whitening should be done in moderation. Most dentists will recommend the procedure be done every five to six months, depending on the patient's situation. Overdoing it can cause long-lasting sensitivity, as well as unhealthy teeth.

Teeth Fillings Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our filling process for teeth. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • Are Teeth Fillings Safe?

    Of course! All filling materials must be approved by the fda in order to be used as a restorative product. So, yes, dental fillings are safe!  However, there is always a risk of a sensitivity to any product used in the restoration process. Any concerns or known sensitivities should be discussed with your dentist before the procedure to ensure the best choice possible is made for your specific situation.

  • How much are dental fillings without insurance?

    Dental fillings are usually some of the least expensive dental procedures. The type of filling material used will determine the cost. The amount of surfaces that need to be restored on a tooth is the biggest determining factor in cost.  A small cavity on one surface of the tooth will cost less that a filling that covers large areas on the top and down two sides of a tooth. Please contact our office and we will be happy to give you an estimate on dental filling costs.

  • What happens if a filling falls out?

    Fillings and crowns can sometimes become loose and fall out.  This is rarely an emergency situation, but the exposed tooth may be sensitive and you should contact the dentist as soon as possible. If decay is undetected and gets underneath a filling or crown it can change the shape of the tooth and as a result the filling or crown will no longer fit the tooth properly. Thus it can become loose and eventually fall out. If a filling falls out, a new filling will need to be placed in the tooth to ensure as perfect a fit as possible to prevent decay from getting under it.

  • How are dental fillings done?

    If a cavity is detected and treated before it gets too close to the root of the tooth, it is generally a simple and straightforward procedure. You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the area surrounding it. Then the decayed or damaged tooth material is removed from your tooth.  If the dentist is putting a resin filling in, your tooth will then be treated with an acid gel to prepare the tooth surface for the filling material. After this is washed away the filling will be placed into the tooth. It will be shaped to match your surrounding teeth and then cured hard with a special light. The dentist will then check your bite making sure it is not too high and smooth out the surface of the filling.

Short Term Braces Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our teeth alignment process. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • How do these braces work in only 6 months?

    Our clear braces are safe, comfortable, and provide quick results. Using proven techniques and materials, the braces have been specifically designed for adults with crooked, spaced, or misaligned teeth.


    6 months is the average treatment time. Most patients finish around 6 months, but treatment times may range from 4-9 months.


    See how it works →

  • Do I need to see a dentist for this procedure?

    Yes! This is not a DIY (Do it yourself) type of treatment. Trained Doctors follow your case from the beginning to end to track your progress and make adjustments along the way to give you the best possible results. This is the safest, most effective and quickest way to progress through treatment.

  • Are retainers required?

    Yes, as with all orthodontic treatment, a retainer is necessary to maintain the new, straight position of your teeth. There are a variety of retainer options the dentist will recommend depending on your situation.

  • Will my insurance cover the cost of my braces?

    Some dental and healthcare insurance plans may cover a portion of Six Month Smiles treatment. It's best to contact your insurance provider based on your specific policy.

Crowns and Bridges Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our crowns and bridges. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What is the difference between crowns and bridges?

    A crown is a whole covering, commonly made of porcelain, metal or ceramic material, that replaces the enamel layer of the tooth. It is bonded on top of a healthy rooted tooth that needs strengthening and protection. A bridge is a device that uses two crowns to fill in a gap in the smile from a missing tooth. The crowns cover the two adjacent teeth, called abutments. The center of the bridge called a pontic, is a false tooth that is designed to fit in with the rest of your smile.

  • Who is a good candidate for crowns?

    Since a crown is only a superficial covering, the inner parts of the tooth have to be healthy to support it. A dentist must examine the inside of the tooth using X-rays to confirm that the tooth is healthy enough for a crown. Patients who have root canal therapy are also candidates for crowns.

  • Who is a good candidate for bridges?

    Someone who has one or two missing teeth and wants a reasonably secure and semi-permanent solution may benefit from bridges. The bridge is needed to help make it easier to process food, maintain the structure of the jawline and give the patient a smile to be proud of. The abutment teeth have to be healthy enough to support a crown. Generally, a good candidate for a crown will likely also be a good candidate for bridgework.

  • How long will these dental solutions last?

    A crown or bridge can last for between five to 15 years or even longer if you take care of your teeth. But no worries, because when the time comes your dentist can redo the crown or bridge and give you another 15 or more years to enjoy your new smile.

Endodontics (Root Canal) Treatment Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our root canal procedures that we perform in Benton, AR. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What is endodontic (root canal) treatment?

    “Endo” is the Greek word for “inside” and “odont” is Greek for “tooth.” Endodontic treatment treats the inside of the tooth. Root canal treatment is one type of endodontic treatment. To understand endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of the tooth. Inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue and creates the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during development. The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root. The pulp is important during a tooth’s growth and development. However, once a tooth is fully mature it can survive without the pulp, because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.

  • What are the signs of needing a root canal?

    Signs to look for include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling, drainage and tenderness in the lymph nodes as well as nearby bone and gingival tissues. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.

  • Is a root canal painful?

    Root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain, it relieves it. The perception of root canals being painful began decades ago but with the latest technologies and anesthetics, root canal treatment today is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. In fact, a recent survey showed that patients who have experienced root canal treatment are six times more likely to describe it as “painless” than patients who have not had root canal treatment. Most patients see their dentist or endodontist when they have a severe toothache. The toothache can be caused by damaged tissues in the tooth. Root canal treatment removes this damaged tissue from the tooth, thereby relieving the pain you feel For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Follow your endodontist’s instructions carefully. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure or pain that lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.

  • Can all teeth be treated endodontically?

    Most teeth can be treated. Occasionally, a tooth can’t be saved because the root canals are not accessible, the root is severely fractured, the tooth doesn’t have adequate bone support, or the tooth cannot be restored. However, advances in endodontics are making it possible to save teeth that even a few years ago would have been lost. When endodontic treatment is not effective, endodontic surgery may be able to save the tooth.

Dentures and Partials Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our dentures and partials. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • How do I care for my dentures or partials?

    Whitening: It is not possible to whiten dentures like natural teeth because dentures are made of plastic. To minimize staining, properly clean your dentures daily to remove food and plaque bacteria. Brushing with a denture brush or soft toothbrush will prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained and keep your mouth healthy. Moisten the brush and apply a non-abrasive soap or denture paste (regular toothpaste is too abrasive). Brush every surface, inside and out, scrubbing gently. A variety of over-the-counter denture cleanser products may be safely used (by following the manufacturer’s instructions) to remove most stains. Do not use bleach on your dentures unless your dentist or prosthodontist gives you special instructions on using bleach. Dilute household bleach can be used to clean and disinfect your dentures, but don’t use bleach until you see your prosthodontist for instructions. More stubborn stains may require removal by your prosthodontist.


    Brushing: Do not brush your dentures with normal toothpaste. Toothpastes are designed to be used on teeth, and they often contain materials and chemicals that help whiten and strengthen teeth, but may harm dentures, which are made of a very durable plastic. Even though the plastic is strong, it is not as strong as the enamel of teeth and may be scratched by using toothpaste to clean your dentures. You should use a dish washing liquid and a special denture brush to clean your dentures by hand every day. After rinsing them thoroughly, soak your dentures in water-based cleaning solution overnight.


    Repairing broken dentures: The best solution is to return to the prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the cracked denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The prosthodontist also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it is repaired. The denture may be too old and may no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new denture.

  • Can I sleep in my dentures or partials?

    Yes, you can wear your dentures or partials at night but it is preferred that they be removed. You should remove your dentures at night and this will give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the denture during the day. If you need to wear your dentures for social reasons or to prevent your jaws from over closing, you should find time during the day to properly clean your mouth and your prostheses. You should never wear your dentures 24 hours a day without preforming proper oral hygiene. Dentures should be cleaned at night and stored in water during the night.

  • Can I eat normally with dentures?

    Most patients need to learn how to use dentures properly and as a result, it takes a little time to get used to them. After a while, you should be able to eat fairly normally, but it may take more time to get comfortable with harder foods or sticky foods. Using a small amount of denture adhesive (no more than three or four pea-sized dabs on each denture) may help stabilize the dentures and help hold them in place while you learn how to get comfortable with them and may make the learning process easier.


    Chewing gum: Dentures and chewing gum do not usually work well together, no matter which brand of chewing gum you decide to try. The gum typically sticks to the acrylic plastic in the denture and may break a seal on the dentures, which will loosen them as a result. Gum may remain stuck to the denture and eventually harden and discolor. Ultimately, if you wear dentures, you should avoid chewing gum.

  • Is it possible to perfectly color match my partial denture to my remaining natural teeth?

    Prosthodontists and their teams are highly trained in the art of color and shade matching. Assuming it is a new partial denture, they can work to produce a match to your remaining natural teeth. If it is an existing partial denture, we would recommend having a new one made, as the expense would be about the same to recolor the old one.

Gum Disease Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about gum disease. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What are the stages of gum disease?

    Periodontal disease is broken down into different stages, each of which is characterized by a set of symptoms that help the periodontist understand how far it has progressed.  The three main stages of gum disease include: 


    Gingivitis – Early stage symptoms include inflammation of the gums, but the bone and connective tissue are not affected.

    Periodontitis – Gums are irreversibly damaged, but further damage can be prevented.

    Advanced periodontitis – Gums are destroyed, and teeth are beginning to shift or loosen

    The more advanced periodontal disease becomes, the more complex the treatment will be to restore oral health. 

  • Is gingivitis reversible?

    Gingivitis is the only stage of gum disease that can be reversed.  By working closely with a dentist or periodontist, and following their instructions for a proper oral hygiene routine, most people can restore the health of their gums. When left untreated and the gum disease progresses, however, the gums become irreversibly damaged.

  • What are the different types of periodontitis?

    Periodontitis is a broad term that is characterized by damage to gums and periodontal tissue.  There are different types of periodontitis, some classified by the rate of advancement and others by the specific associated symptoms. The four different types of periodontitis include:


    Chronic periodontitis – characterized by gradual pocket formation and bone destruction

    Aggressive periodontitis – characterized by rapid loss of gums and bone deterioration

    Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic disease – common in people suffering from certain systemic diseases, such as heart disease, leukemia, and diabetes 

    Necrotizing periodontal disease – characterized by the death of gum tissue, rapid periodontal destruction, and bone loss often due to the deprivation of nourishment; typically involves intense pain

    It’s important to work closely with a periodontist if you have any type of gum disease. It will not go away on its own, but a periodontist can help restore your oral health. 

  • How does a periodontist treat gum disease?

    Your periodontist will first instruct you in good oral hygiene. In cases of mild gingivitis, improving your dental hygiene can actually reverse the condition and improve the health of your gums. If the disease has progressed to periodontitis, treatments might include scaling and root planing, laser treatment, and various surgical treatments.

Orthodontics Teeth Straightening FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our six month smile and clear correct orthodontic program. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • How does your teeth straightening program work in only 6 months?

    Our clear braces are safe, comfortable, and provide quick results. Using proven techniques and materials, the braces have been specifically designed for adults with crooked, spaced, or misaligned teeth.


    6 months is the average treatment time. Most patients finish around 6 months, but treatment times may range from 4-9 months.

  • Am I still a candidate for this type of teeth straightening even if I have an overbite or underbite?

    As a professional and trained six month smiles provider, we will asses your needs during a consultation and determine if you are a candidate for the program.

  • Do these type of braces hurt?

    In our opinion, braces don't hurt. What most patients describe is mild temporary discomfort for a few days after the clear braces are placed and maybe after some adjustments, but people don't complain of anything more than that. Think of it like going to the gym: you maybe be a bit sore at first but you will eventually feel better.


  • Are retainers required?

    Yes, as with all orthodontic treatment, a retainer is necessary to maintain the new, straight position of your teeth. There are a variety of retainer options the doctor will recommend depending on your situation.

Tooth Extractions FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about tooth extraction. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What does a tooth extraction involve?

    The extraction process is different depending on the severity of the dental problem. The procedure can either be simple or surgical. Simple extractions are straightforward and easily performed. The dentist will numb the gum with local anesthesia and using special pliers the teeth will be pulled. The dentist will then sanitize and stitch the gums to facilitate healing. These stitches disintegrate over time and don’t need another dental procedure.

  • How long will it take for my gums to heal from a tooth pulling procedure?

    Though the healing time will depend on the type of surgery and the location of the teeth, you should expect to recover in 7 to 14 days. The recovery time at times can take longer as the bone grows in the gum.

  • What can you do to promote gum healing speed during the recovery process?

    Aftercare will affect your healing time, so follow the dentist’s instructions. Here are a few tips:


    • Take pain relievers
    • Use ice packs to reduce swelling
    • Use saline water to rinse of the gum
    • Don’t use a straw to avoid breaking the blood clot
    • Elevate the head to stop bleeding
    • Eat foods that require less chewing
    • Brush and floss your teeth as you normally do, but avoid the site
    • Limit activity for 24 to 48 hours

Wisdom Teeth Extraction FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our wisdom teeth extraction process. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • Which teeth are wisdom teeth?

    Wisdom teeth, officially referred to as third molars, are usually the last teeth to develop. They are upper and lower teeth whose function is to grind food as part of the digestive process. They are located in the very back of your mouth, next to your second (or twelve year) molars and near the entrance to your throat. They usually complete development between the ages of 15 and 20, a time traditionally associated with the onset of maturity and the attainment of Wisdom.

  • What happens afterwards | What will I feel like?

    Most of the time you will want to maintain a low profile for a few days. We ask that you follow your post-operative instructions closely as they will make you most comfortable during the first few days following your procedure. Please allow the time to let your body begin healing before resuming an active social, academic, or athletic schedule. Most patients feel like they are over the hump in 3-5 days.

  • What does a wisdom teeth extraction procedure cost?

    Because of the different types of impacted wisdom teeth, along with different anesthesia options, it is impossible to give you a realistic estimate of what our services will cost until we have reviewed your x-rays. Every insurance company has a different policy regarding the extent of coverage for a given surgical procedure. We encourage you to check with both your medical AND dental insurance carrier to determine your coverage and out of pocket liability.

  • What is the best age to have to your wisdom teeth removed?

    If it is recognized that you do not have enough room in your mouth for your third molars to erupt, it is advisable to have them removed as soon as it is recognized. In some patients it is as early as 11 or 12 whereas in others it may not be until 17 or 18 years of age. You will heal faster, with more predictable final healing and have fewer complications than an older patient.

Teeth Cleaning FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about teeth cleaning at our office in Benton. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • What should I expect from a teeth cleaning?

    Before the dental cleaning starts, the dentist asks the patient to sit on the dental chair. The dentist will cover the patient’s chest with a protective cloth. Then, the dentist will inspect the patient’s mouth. Dental cleaning begins with the removal of plaque and tartar from the patient’s teeth with an ultrasonic cleaning device or a metal tool. Next, the dentist will use an electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste to clean the patient’s teeth further. The rough sensation will go away after the patient rinses.


    The dentist will then floss the patient’s teeth. This removes any lodged food particles in between teeth. The patient must rinse again after this.

  • How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

    The American Dental Association recommends that both children and adults receive a professional teeth cleaning and exam twice a year. Patients with a history of periodontal disease or another recurring oral disease or condition may require more frequent treatments.

  • What are the benefits of a dental cleaning?

    Dental cleanings keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, and help you avoid paying for expensive dental procedures in the future. For example, when gum disease is left untreated, you may require deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), gum grafting, bone grafting, or a tooth replacement. Routine dental cleanings can also decrease the chances of cavities as we clean the hard to reach places in your mouth.



  • Do teeth cleanings hurt?

    Professional teeth cleaning is not invasive at all and does not hurt.


    All that patients feel are vibrations and a bit of pressure. The dental staff could always make patients more at ease if ever there is anxiety involved. Patients can signal the dentist to stop in case a cleaning procedure becomes uncomfortable for any reason. This could be a small fidget or a tap.

Dental Exam FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our dental exams. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • Why should I get a dental exam?

    Dental exams give us the opportunity to evaluate your current methods of dental care and provide suggestions for future care in order to protect you from complications such as cavities and gum disease. They also allow us to detect problems early so they can be fixed quickly and easily.

  • What can I expect at a dental exam?

    At a typical dental exam, our team will check for signs of decay or gum disease. An X-ray may be performed to provide a more detailed summary of your oral health and to more closely identify any problems. We will ask you questions about your current methods of dental care, such as how often you brush your teeth, and floss, as well as rinses and toothpastes. With this information in mind, we will demonstrate proper dental care and provide suggestions on how to improve your habits to promote optimal oral health.

  • How often should I get a dental exam?

    Dental exams should generally take place every six months. However, consult with our team to decide how often you should be examined, for we may suggest that you visit more frequently based on factors such as smoking, frequency of cavities and genetic susceptibility to tooth and root decay as well as gum disease.



Teeth Grinding FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about teeth grinding. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • How does a night guard help?

    A custom mouthguard or splint helps reduce the forces placed on the teeth when the patient is grinding their teeth. These appliances look like the mouthguards worn during contact sports. It provides a rubbery barrier that prevents teeth from meeting each other. It is an effective way to prevent the condition from causing severe damage to the patient’s teeth.

  • What are the causes of teeth grinding?

    There is no clear answer to this question. The condition is viewed as a subconscious response to stress or anger. Some people pick it up from taking part in strenuous activities like weightlifting. It starts as a way to concentrate on the task at hand and evolves into involuntary teeth grinding. Some studies also indicate that teeth grinding can be caused by mental health issues like depression and habits like excessive alcohol, tobacco, or caffeine consumption.

  • Is teeth grinding harmful?

    Yes, grinding the teeth leads to excessive forces being exerted on them. This leads to teeth structures breaking apart and biting surfaces being flattened. As a result, the patient might have a hard time grinding chewy foods, and their risk of tooth decay increases because the enamel on some of their teeth has been compromised.

Emergency Dental Work FAQ

We've compiled a few of the most popular questions we get about our emergency dental services. Click on the question below for the answer.

  • I have a broken or chipped tooth. What do I do?

    Even if the tooth is not painful yet, it’s important to make sure you see a dentist right away. The internal and delicate areas of the tooth may now be exposed to different types of bacteria in the mouth. If the tooth is left unprotected, this could quickly lead to new decay, and the dentist has to evaluate right away how serious the problem is.

  • What is categorized as a dental emergency?

    A dental emergency is characterized by pain, any sudden swelling, and a large amount of discomfort. Usually when the patient determines that they cannot help themselves, it is important to understand that oral health problems seldom fix themselves, and they won’t just quickly go away. If you have knots, swelling, or bulges on your gums you also may be experiencing a dental emergency.


  • How can I remove an object stuck between my teeth?

    If you happen to get a piece of food or any other very small object wedged between your teeth, you can try to very gently remove the object with dental floss. You should not use anything that is extremely sharp, like a pin around your teeth as it may cause damage. If what is there cannot be removed by dental floss, contact us to schedule an appointment.


  • What happens if I loose a tooth filling?

    If you rapidly lose a filling, call us and we will get you in as soon as possible. At your grocery or pharmacy, you can find dental cements that are good to use as a temporary gap while you are waiting. You can also use sugar-free gum to cover the cavity, but it is very important to make sure it is sugar-free, because if sugar is introduced into the area around the cavity, it can cause very severe pain.



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