Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Winslow, AZ

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We know all too well that every patient is going to have their own questions about their dental care, and we always take the time to answer your concerns over the phone and at your appointments. You can always reach out to us with any inquiries you have, but to make things a little easier for you, we have listed some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve heard on this page; take the time to review it and see if it covers whatever is on your mind.

How Will I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Gum disease often develops silently, and many patients don’t even realize they have it until the infection is already in its later stages. That said, there some warning signs you might notice, such as red and swollen gum tissue, chronic bad breath, frequent bleeding (especially when brushing or flossing) or teeth that start to look longer than normal as a result of the gums pulling away. Get in touch with us to ask about deep cleaning and other forms of periodontal treatment if you notice any of these warning signs.

How Often Do I Need a Dental Checkup?

It’s normally recommended to see your dentist at least twice a year (or every six months) for multiple reasons. First of all, biannual visits increase the odds of detecting cavities and other oral health issues before they become severe, and they provide a chance to remove tartar that has hardened in place. Second, most insurance plans cover two preventive visits a year, so you’ll get the most out of your benefits by attending these visits. You may have to schedule additional appointments if you have gum disease or another oral health issue that needs frequent attention.

What Can I Do About a Gap in My Smile?

It depends on how large the gap is and how much of a threat it poses to your overall oral health. In extreme cases, you might need braces to close the space in question. However, smaller gaps can be covered with a simple cosmetic procedure such as a porcelain veneer; crowns can also be useful for filling in the space.

Are Sensitive Teeth an Emergency?

If you notice that your teeth hurt whenever you expose them to hot or cold temperatures, you need to figure out the underlying reason as soon as possible. You might have a cracked tooth, or the roots normally hidden under the gums might have been exposed; in both cases, the symptoms might point toward a more serious oral health issue that needs to be addressed.

Do I Need to Replace a Missing Tooth?

It’s a bad idea to leave a gap in your smile alone. Without a full set of teeth, your jawbone will shrink, and your gums will recede. As a result, the remaining teeth will be weaker and more vulnerable to plaque buildup and tooth decay; they might also grow into the gap and become crooked or crowded. Getting a dental implant, a bridge, or dentures is typically crucial for protecting your oral health.

Will You Accept My Dental Insurance?

You can check the list on our insurance page to see if we’re in-network with your carrier. If you don’t see your plan, get in touch with us right away; we’ll let you know if we can accept it. We can also give you an idea of what kind of benefits you can expect during a routine checkup or a more extensive visit.