Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question for us? Then you’ve come to the right place! Below, our own Dr. Jim Miller has answered some of the most common questions our team receives every day. If you have a question we haven’t covered here, be sure to give us a call today.
How often do I need a checkup & cleaning?
The average patient should receive at least two checkups and cleanings every calendar year, or one every 6 months. These preventive appointments, in addition to a consistent oral hygiene routine at home, provide the most effective and conservative way to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease long-term.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed every time I brush?
If your gums consistently bleed every time you brush and floss your teeth, it could be because you’re doing so with too much force, or you might have early-stage periodontal disease. Try cleaning your teeth with a lighter touch for about a week, and if the bleeding persists, be sure to give us a call. The best way to handle periodontal disease is to have it treated early so it doesn’t damage your smile.
Can you help with a dental emergency?
Yes! If you or a loved one are in a lot of dental pain because of a knocked-out tooth or severe toothache, just give our dental office a call, and we’ll work to see you as quickly as possible. We’re often able to see emergency patients the same day that they call in and provide immediate relief!
How long does it take to repair a cavity/damaged tooth?
This answer will be different depending on a patient’s specific situation, but in most cases, we’re able to fully repair a tooth in just one appointment. In the case of a small cavity or slightly damaged tooth, we can usually take care of it with a tooth-colored filling. Or, if a tooth needs to be completely rebuilt, we can help it look and function like normal again using a custom-made crown.
Are root canals painful?
This is actually a big misconception! A root canal is used to repair teeth that have an infection deep within the dental pulp, which is where the sensitive nerve is located. Many people confuse the pain of the infection with the procedure itself. In truth, thanks to modern-day dental techniques, including sedation, our root canal patients report feeling very little discomfort during or after the procedure.
Can you help straighten my crooked teeth?
Yes, and we don’t even need traditional metal braces to do it! With Invisalign or ClearCorrect, we can gently and discreetly shift your teeth using a series of clear plastic aligners. Adult patients love these treatments because the aligners are practically invisible, helping them straighten their smile without anyone noticing. In fact, most of our patients say that their friends and coworkers only notice a difference after the treatment has been completed!
Will you accept my dental insurance?
In all likelihood, yes! We are in-network providers for Delta Dental, Cigna, and Sunlife, and we also accept a long list of other dental insurance plans. We’ll even handle the claims process on your behalf to make it nice and easy to maximize your benefits. To learn more about how we can use your particular plan to help you save, contact us today.