Frequently Asked Dental Questions – New Bedford, MA
Answers to Your Dental Questions
From routine care to emergencies, there are many different aspects to dentistry. It’s only natural, then, that our patients would have a lot of questions when it comes to the services that we provide. No matter what your concerns are, we will take all the time we need to address them; you should never feel pressured to move forward with your dental care until you have all the answers you need. Before you call our dental office, see if you can find the answers to your dental questions listed below.
How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?
At least two dental examinations and checkups are recommended each year regardless of your age. These visits help prevent cavities and gum disease, and they allow us to diagnose oral health issues before they have a chance to reach their advanced stages. If you’re at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease, we might ask you to come in more often.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
This is a question you should be asking if you’ve lost any number of teeth or are expecting to have teeth removed in the near future. In order to receive dental implants, your gums must be free of infection, and your jawbone must be strong and dense enough to successfully support and fuse with the posts. The good news is that bone grafts and other procedures can be performed to address potential problems before implant surgery, so even if you’re not currently a candidate for dental implants, you could potentially be one with the right preparations.
Do I Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are used to protect weakened or damaged teeth, hold broken dental structures together, support dental bridges, hide misshapen or discolored teeth, cover dental implants, and make any number of cosmetic changes. We can determine whether a crown is right for your particular situation after a thorough examination. Regardless of the reason you need a crown, we’ll be sure to carefully personalize your restoration so that it matches the rest of your smile.
Will I Know if I Have Gum Disease?
Sometimes it’s possible to identify gum disease in its earliest stages. You might notice that your gums are redder and more swollen than they were before, or you might experience bleeding whenever you brush your teeth. However, gum disease often develops silently to the point where you don’t realize anything has gone wrong until it puts your teeth and your overall oral health at risk. Your best option for identifying gum disease early is continuing to attend your regular dental checkups.
What Can I Do If I’m Unhappy with My Smile?
Do you want to cover all of the cracks and stains on your teeth at once? You might consider getting veneers. Do you have smaller changes in mind? We also offer direct bonding as a quick solution. Are you specifically bothered by severely discolored teeth? One of our take-home whitening kits can help. Let us know what part of your smile you’re dissatisfied with, and we’ll help you find a solution.
Am I Eligible for Financing?
Patients who cannot pay the entire price of care out of pocket all at once should consider dental financing. We can discuss the options that are available and help you pick a plan that works for your financial situation.