12 Questions to Ask Your Dentist
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. Aside from the unappealing appearance of silver
fillings, they can cause teeth to fracture over time. As a general
rule, if the filling is small it is better to use tooth-colored material
called a composite. As fillings get bigger, inlays and onlays are
needed. These types of restorations support your teeth through bonding.
They also hold up to chewing pressure, don't leak, and look like
your real teeth.
Why are my gums inflamed and
bleed when I brush and floss?
Inflammation is caused by our body's response to bacteria found
in the crevice between our gums and teeth and is observable as bleeding
by the patient. If this inflammation is not treated and controlled,
it can lead to deterioration and breakdown of the supporting tissues
of your teeth. This can lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss, so
early detection and correction is important. Balancing the PH, bacterial
levels and nutrition to your gums and bone can literally save your
teeth. We have natural, non-surgical treatments that will restore
the balance of your mouth and the health of your gums.
I saw something on T.V. about a problem
with water lines in Dental Offices,
is this true?
We do not use tap water. We have individual distilled water containers
for each patient. This eliminates the bio-film that builds up in
ordinary water lines.
How do you sterilize your
instruments?
Our sterilization methods meet or exceed the standards set by the
Center for Disease Control. All instruments are washed, scrubbed,
placed in an ultrasonic disinfectant solution, then placed in the
sterilizer at high temperatures.
I am nervous about dentistry,
what can I do?
The first thing you will want to know about all of our dentists is that they are very gentle and understanding. We also provide different means of ensuring that you have a relaxing experience, like stereo headphones for listening
to music. We also have homeopathic remedies and specific protocols and medications that can help to relax even the most nervous and anxious
of
us all.
Why does the gum around crowns look purple?
This can occur for several reasons: the crown may not fit well,
it may be too far under the gum, or it may have a metal base that
blocks light. Teeth are like little fiber optic units. When light
hits them, it illuminates the teeth and the surrounding gum tissue
to give it that healthy pink glow. Metal blocks the light, causing
the tissue to look dark. Non-metallic crowns are best for a natural
appearance.
How long will aesthetic dental treatment last?
Longevity varies from person to person depending on oral habits
like clenching and grinding, how clean you keep your teeth and gums,
and the PH of your saliva. We do our best to deliver high-quality
treatment that will last many years.
How can I close the gaps between my
teeth?
Gaps can be closed with bonding or veneers in some cases or require
orthodontic treatment in others. This will depend on the individual
proportions of the patient.
How can I whiten my teeth?
There are two main methods of whitening teeth; at-home bleaching
or in-office bleaching. In-office bleaching uses gels very similar
to the at home bleaching techniques, but is faster because intense
light from an argon laser is used.
The at-home bleaching technique uses a custom made tray that fits
exactly to your teeth and holds a very viscous gel which whitens
the teeth. This technique will get your teeth just as white as the
more expensive in office bleaching, but it will take longer to achieve
the desired result. Most patients notice a change within one day
but final results usually take about ten days to two weeks. For home
bleaching we use only the best whitening gels that contain no ingredients
like fluoride or glycerin that can dry out your gums and cause sensitivity.
Are any of the procedures covered by insurance?
Insurance usually covers situations involving fractures, breakage
or decay. Because there is such a discrepancy between the amounts
that insurance companies pay, we ask that all services be paid for
at the time services are performed. We do accept most major credit
cards and we will help you to submit your insurance claim forms.
What if I can't make my appointment?
In order to be fair to all of our patients, we must ask you to call
our office no less than 24 hours and preferably 48 hours before any
appointment you cannot make. A $50.00 charge may be applied to your
account if you miss an appointment, reschedule or cancel your appointment
without sufficient notice.
Dr. O'Rielly is willing to answer any question you might have about
Holistic Dentistry. Call us today at (760) 632-1304.
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About Holistic Dentist Carey O'Rielly 