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FAQ

Dental Checkups

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

It’s important to schedule an appointment with a trusted dentist as soon as possible after their first baby tooth erupts (usually between 6-12 months), so they can begin learning healthy habits early in life that will help ensure lifelong oral health! Dr. Pham will review basic oral hygiene techniques with you and your child at this appointment. She will also provide preventive care, such as examining their mouth for potential problems like cavities or misalignment of their bite.

How do dental cleanings work?

During a professional dental cleaning, the hygienist will use specialized tools to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along your gum line. They may also floss between each tooth before polishing them with special instruments that help make them feel smooth and shiny. In some cases, they might also apply fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel and protect against tooth decay.

Are dental cleanings covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans will cover all or part of the cost of routine preventive care, such as professional teeth cleanings and comprehensive exams. Additionally, many plans also include coverage for additional treatments such as X-rays or fluoride treatments when necessary. Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details related to your plan.

How often should I see the dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends that all patients visit their dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and professional teeth cleanings. However, every smile is unique. Depending on your individual oral health needs, Dr. Pham may recommend more frequent visits for further treatment and follow-ups.

Do dental cleanings hurt?

Generally, no, a dental cleaning shouldn’t cause you any pain. During a cleaning, your hygienist may use a special tool to scrape away any tartar buildup on your teeth and along your gum line. This process may cause a slight sensation due to the pressure that is being applied to your teeth, but it should not be uncomfortable. If you experience pain during a cleaning, tell your dentist right away.

Crowns & Bridges

Does it hurt to get a crown?

Getting a dental crown does not hurt since local anesthesia is used beforehand to numb any pain during the procedure itself. However, it may cause some minor discomfort afterward which usually goes away after taking over-the-counter pain relievers until fully healed within 1-2 weeks. The same applies when getting dental bridges - although temporary soreness may occur after each visit due mainly due only because it takes time for your mouth (and gums) to adjust to new surface areas modified after every stage towards the completion process that includes grinding down neighboring healthy adjacent teeth on each end which holds bridge itself firmly in place over time.

Can my child get a dental crown?

Children can get crowns too! If your child has a cavity that is too large for a filling but not damaged enough yet for extraction then they may be recommended a dental crown instead so they can preserve their original tooth structure while avoiding extraction altogether. Crowning kids' baby teeth aren’t always ideal since those baby teeth aren't permanent but depending upon the situation it might be necessary when there are no other options left available due to extensive cavities or decay.

How long does a crown or bridge last?

The lifespan of a crown or bridge varies depending on several factors, such as overall oral health, how well you take care of your teeth, and the quality of materials used. A good rule of thumb is that most crowns last 10-15 years, while bridges typically last 7-10 years with proper maintenance and regular dental checkups.

How much does a crown or bridge cost?

When it comes to the cost of either restoration, this will depend on various factors, such as the type of material used (porcelain vs. metal) and where it is in your mouth. Generally speaking, porcelain crowns tend to be more expensive than metal ones since porcelain has more aesthetic appeal than metal-based materials like gold alloys. When it comes to bridges, the cost may increase if you need additional crowns that the two main ones already placed for anchoring purposes. Your dental insurance plan can help with part of these costs depending on what type of coverage you have.

Veneers

Do veneers hurt?

During the procedure, local anesthesia is usually administered in order to reduce discomfort during the preparation process, where some amount of enamel needs to be removed from each tooth before placing the new ones over them. Once all steps have been completed, patients typically don’t report feeling any pain since all changes have already been applied and adjusted accordingly by their dentist beforehand.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, dental veneer longevity can be up to 20 years or more, depending on the material used in their construction and your oral hygiene habits. Ceramics are known to be stronger and more durable compared to other materials and treatment options. Regular dentist appointments should also be scheduled as needed in order for your dentist to check the condition of your dental work, including any signs of wear or damage that need attention.

What are veneers made out of?

Veneers are most commonly made from either porcelain or composite resin materials. We make our veneers out of ceramic. Cosmetic ceramic veneers are strong and highly stain-resistant, withstanding decades of use without losing their luster.

How much do ceramic veneers cost?

The cost of veneers can vary depending on the type, quality, and the number of veneers needed. Compared to other cosmetic dental treatments, veneers are typically more expensive than treatments such as whitening. They may require several visits to a dentist. Insurance plans do not cover the cost of cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers, so it is important to speak with a dentist about payment options prior to getting veneers.

Pediatric Dentistry

How can I teach my child good brushing and flossing habits?

Developing good oral hygiene habits should be something you emphasize from an early age with your children. Show them how to brush and floss properly, and make sure to explain why it’s important. You can help them by setting realistic goals such as brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing once a day. It may also be helpful to set up a rewards system to encourage them to keep up with their brushing and flossing routine. Lastly, don’t forget to lead by example – brush your teeth alongside your children! This will make the process feel more like quality time together and will help reinforce the importance of good oral hygiene habits. 

When should my child start seeing the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that all children visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever happens first. Establishing a relationship between your child and the dentist early on in life is important so that it becomes a normal part of growing up for them.

How can I help my child prevent cavities?

Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing at least once, are essential in helping children avoid cavities. Additionally, limiting sugary snacks and drinks will also go a long way in preventing them from developing cavities. Regular trips to the dentist for checkups and dental cleanings can also help keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.

How often should my child see the dentist?

Generally speaking, children should visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This is important to help prevent tooth decay, gingivitis, and other dental issues from occurring. Depending on your child's age and health history, your child’s dentist may recommend more or less frequent visits.

Teeth Whitening

How long does teeth whitening last?

The length of time that professional tooth bleaching results will remain visible will depend on several factors, such as how often you consume staining foods and drinks (e.g., coffee and red wine), whether you smoke cigarettes, and how well you care for your newly brightened smile. That said, typical results from professionally administered tooth bleaching should last anywhere from 6-12 months, depending on these criteria. However, it’s always best to speak directly with your dental provider so they can advise you further based on their knowledge of your unique situation.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

While most patients do not experience pain during professional tooth bleaching procedures, some may notice an increase in sensitivity due to strong bleaching agents used during treatment. If this occurs, it is usually only temporary and can often be managed successfully by taking breaks between sessions or using special toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth. However, you should always discuss any concerns regarding pain or discomfort with your dental provider before beginning treatment so they can address them accordingly and ensure you have a pleasant experience throughout the process.

How long does teeth whitening at the dentist take?

Generally speaking, the time required for professional teeth whitening at the dentist will depend on several factors, including what type of treatment you have chosen and how severely stained your teeth are. Laser treatments typically take between 15-45 minutes per session, while tray-based treatments may require multiple appointments over a period of weeks or even months, depending on your individual needs. Before undergoing any type of professional tooth whitening, it’s important to discuss all available options thoroughly with your dentist so they can provide an accurate timeline for completion. 

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, professional teeth whitening is generally considered safe when it is performed by a qualified and experienced dental professional. However, it is important to note that there are potential side effects that should be discussed with your dentist beforehand. These could include increased sensitivity in your gums and/or tooth enamel due to strong bleaching agents used during treatment; these effects are usually temporary and can often be minimized by taking breaks between bleaching sessions or using a special toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

How much does teeth whitening cost?

The cost of professional teeth whitening at the dentist will vary depending on your unique cosmetic needs and goals. For example, you may need repeated sessions if you are dealing with extensive staining. Additionally, if you need additional dental work before whitening, such as filling cavities or replacing old crowns, that could increase the cost of treatment. It is best to speak to your dentist about the costs associated with specific types of teeth whitening treatments.

Emergency

Are dental emergencies expensive?

The cost associated with a dental emergency will depend on several factors, including the severity of your condition as well as the type of treatment required. Generally speaking, though, most treatments for dental emergencies are much more cost-effective than treatments for long-term conditions due to their immediacy and accuracy.

Can I go to the emergency room if something is wrong with my tooth?

Generally speaking, the emergency room is not equipped to handle dental emergencies. While they may be able to provide some temporary relief from pain or minor treatment for facial trauma related to an accident, they will typically refer you to your family dentist for further care. In some rare cases, they may even recommend hospitalization if there are signs of a serious infection or other complications requiring specialized care. However, Fulton Dental Associates should always be your first choice for emergency care.

Do I really need to see a dentist during a dental emergency?

Yes! Although it can be tempting to try to treat a dental emergency on your own with home remedies such as hot/cold compresses or over-the-counter medications, visiting an experienced professional is always recommended. An emergency dentist has the tools and expertise needed to properly diagnose and treat your condition without compromising long-term oral health. 

What counts as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any type of severe pain or infection in the mouth, jaw, or teeth that requires immediate attention. Examples of common dental emergencies include toothaches, chipped or broken teeth, lost fillings, trauma to the face or mouth, fractured jaw, abscesses (infections) in the gums and/or teeth, gum swelling and pain, and wisdom tooth issues. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to call your dentist right away. 

At Fulton Dental Associates, we believe that everyone deserves to smile with confidence. Schedule your next visit with us and let us help you achieve your best oral health.