What is Gum Disease?
There are 2 main forms of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease.
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums (or gingiva) caused by the bacteria in plaque. Red, puffy gums that bleed easily and are often tender are symptoms. If gingivitis is not taken care of, it will lead to periodontal disease. Proper treatment is provided by your dentist or hygenist.
Periodontal Disease is the breakdown of the supporting structures surrounding the teeth. The gums detach from the teeth, creating a pocket. As the bone & support tissues of the teeth are destroyed, the pockets deepen which can result in loose teeth or even tooth loss. The damage from periodontal disease is not reversible, but can be stopped, and the remaining tissue can be maintained with adequate home care and treatment from your periodontist.
What can I do to keep a healthy mouth?
There are 3 essential things to do for a healthy mouth:
- Eat right.
- See your dentist regularly.
- Maintain good home care.
Good home care can consist of different things for different people. Usually brushing and flossing are recommended for everyone. Your dentist or hygienist may also want other cleaning devices to be used daily (such as proxy brushes, rubber tip stimulators etc.) Following the advice from your dental health care provider will help you achieve and maintain healthy gums, bones, and teeth.
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a pediatric dentist by their first birthday. Since dental problems can start early, the earlier the dental visit the better.
How often should I have my teeth cleaned and examined?
For most people with healthy gums and teeth, a dental cleaning and exam every 6 months is adequate. Some people may need more frequent visits if recommended by their dental healthcare provider.
My gums are bleeding, should I stop brushing and flossing that area?
No! Gums bleed because of irritants contacting the gums (plaque, bacteria, or food caught under the gums, etc.). Contact your general dentist for an appointment right away. Bleeding gums are signs of gingivitis.
What should I do if I have a toothache?
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any food that might be trapped between the teeth. Contact your general dentist as soon as possible for an appointment.
Can I have my teeth aligned without having braces glued to my teeth?
Yes, if you are an adult with between 1 and 6 millimeters of crowding or spacing of your front teeth and no missing or severely tipped teeth. A series of 3-D computer generated invisible aligners made by InvisalignTM may allow creation of a beautiful smile for you without braces. This advanced technology is not for growing children and does not correct bites that are due to jawbone malpositioning. Be aware that in 2002, Invisalign began licensing this technology to dentists who have "no prior orthodontic experience". We urge you to select a provider with orthodontic training and experience to provide your Invisalign treatment. Many patients will receive a superior result with a combination of a short period of traditional braces to correct problems Invisalign has trouble correcting followed by Invisalign aligners to complete tooth alignment.
What type of sterilization techniques does your office practice?
Our sterilization program operates with the philosophy, use as many disposable items as possible. Prophy cups, water sprayers, suction tips and the like are single-use only and thrown out after each patient. The chair and other areas in the treatment room are cleaned with a sterilant/disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses. All items that cannot be disposed of, such as handpieces and instruments are rinsed, scrubbed with a brush and placed in an ultrasonic cleaner to remove debris. After the debris has been removed, they are placed in one of our two steam autoclaves that sterilize using extremely high temperatures and pressure.
When do we have to cancel an appointment by to avoid being charged?
24 hours prior to your appointment time by phone or email.
What if I do not have dental insurance? Do you have alternative pricing?
- We have designed the Family Dental Center "In Office" Dental Savings Program specifically for people who do not have the support of dental insurance.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We have numerous ways to make any dental treatment affordable for you. We offer the payment options of: Cash, Personal Check, Credit Card, or financing arrangements. We off the CareCredit® Interest Free Patient Payment Plan. We also offer the Dental Free Plan which is also interest free based on credit.
What is the CareCredit® financing program?
Our practice offers a flexible payment program called CareCredit. We can pre-approve you for the program and start treatment immediately. The minimum fees we can finance is $300. Our financing options for you are:
- $300 to $699 - three months interest free
- $700 to $999 - six months interest free
- $1,000 and above - twelve months interest free
Extended financing for 24, 36, or 48 month terms is also available for treatment fees over $1,000 at an interest rate of %1.56 per month.