Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
You probably have a lot of questions about your dental health and the dental care we provide.
We love questions! They mean that you care and that you are invested in your ongoing good health.
Any time you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask us. We welcome your questions and will always do our best to make sure that every question you have is answered before you leave your appointment.
For your convenience, we’ve collected some of the questions we hear the most often here on the FAQs page of our website. Browse through and see if your question is answered here. If it isn’t (or you’d simply like more information), feel free to call us or drop us a line.
I am unhappy with the appearance of my smile. What are my options?
Your smile is your calling card and speaks volumes about who you are. If your smile isn’t looking its best, you might accidentally be sending messages that don’t reflect the real you.
Fortunately, many cosmetic treatments are available to help improve the appearance of your smile. At Azure Dental, we also keep esthetics in mind when we are providing restorative treatment so that your restorations (such as fillings, crowns, and bridges) blend in beautifully. We want people to notice your attractive and friendly smile – not your dental work!
Different cosmetic treatments are available to solve different kinds of problems. Which kind is right for you will depend on a number of factors, including your specific concern, your current level of health, and your budget. Dr. Shah will consult with you to learn more about your goals and provide you with her expert recommendation to help you have the smile you want – one that truly reflects who you are.
Our options range from simple treatments like professional teeth whitening and bonding using tooth-colored composite resin to more extensive treatments like porcelain veneers and crowns and even state-of-the-art dental implants to replace any missing teeth. While dental insurance often does not cover cosmetic dentistry (although it may provide some assistance if we are also treating a functional or health problem like missing or damaged teeth), we can discuss financing options through third parties such as CareCredit and LendingTree.
Call our office today to schedule your cosmetic consultation with Dr. Aditi Shah!
What makes dental implants so special?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, you have several options. Bridges and dentures both help your smile look complete and can make it easier to chew your favorite foods, but dental implants (which can be used to secure bridges and dentures!) have a hidden advantage that you might not be aware of.
Unlike traditional bridges and dentures, which are designed to sit above the gumline and replace the visible portion (or crown) of your tooth, dental implants go a step further and actually replace the missing root.
This is important because, in addition to helping hold your tooth in place, the roots of your teeth serve another crucial function – they provide stimulation to the bone to continue maintaining itself. Once you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw (your periodontal bone) resorbs, becoming weaker and losing density. Over time, this sets off a chain reaction of problems. The shape of your face can change, and you are likely to lose additional teeth.
By replacing the root with a post made of surgical-grade titanium (the same material used in joint replacement and other medical procedures), the bone is once again stimulated to stay healthy, preventing or stopping the chain reaction.
If you are missing teeth, please call our practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aditi Shah and learn more about your options.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Gum disease is incredibly common in U.S. adults. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 50% of all American adults have some level of gum disease. Worse yet, many of these people aren’t even aware that there is a problem!
Gum disease (periodontal disease) causes a host of dental problems and is also linked with several serious systemic health conditions, including stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and even pregnancy complications in pregnant women. As you might imagine, we take gum disease very seriously here at Azure Dental, and we’re dedicated to both preventing gum disease and, if it is already present, identifying it as early as possible so we can stop it in its tracks.
Two important factors play a role in gum disease prevention:
- Brushing and flossing your teeth using good technique
- Visiting our office on a regular basis for professional cleanings and screening examinations
Other factors can also affect your chances of developing gum disease, including genetics, medications, and lifestyle choices. We will review all of these topics with you at your checkups so we can assess your risk.
Why are regular check-ups so important? Not only will cleanings remove the built-up tartar and bacteria deposits that contribute to gum disease, we can also keep a close eye out for the signs that gum disease is developing. In the early stages, these signs are often subtle and easy to miss.
Has it been a while since your last checkup? That’s okay, we understand!
Give us a call today, and we’ll help you get back on track with no judgment, just kindness and caring.
How do I know if 6-Month braces are a good option for me?
Most people, age 15 or more ARE candidates for 6-month braces. If you have spaced, crowded or crooked teeth, this could be a great solution for you. We offer a FREE consultation so call to schedule your complimentary appointment today!
