Frequently
Asked Questions


Root canals are like fillings inside of the nerve chamber. They are used when an infection has reached deep into the tooth. Simply covering that infection with a filling or crown would trap it in place, causing repetitive abscesses. The only option other than a root canal is to have the tooth extracted.
When can a tooth no longer have a filling but need something more complex like a crown? When there is no longer enough tooth structure to “fill.” Having enough healthy enamel to support the filling during everyday use is essential, otherwise the tooth will break apart and be non-restorable. Crowns cover the entire tooth and help even very weak teeth to last several more years.
If you have evidence of deep gum pockets, a deep cleaning is essential. Regular home care will not reverse this phase of gum disease on its own. By removing buildup from these deep areas, you can prevent tooth and bone loss.
Adult teeth have very thick dentin below the enamel. By nature, dentin is yellow in appearance, giving adult teeth a different color than baby teeth (which have very little dentin, and are consequently very white in color.)
Sometimes this happens, but it is nothing to be alarmed about. The permanent tooth usually begins to push the baby tooth out of place until it becomes loose and falls out on its own.
Absolutely. Our gels use natural ingredients that lift stain particles from the pores of the teeth, providing straightforward results that are extremely noticeable. Click here to learn more about our teeth whitening services.
Low radiation digital x-rays are an important part of assessing your oral health and screening for complex dental problems. Most adults require bitewing x-rays once a year, or a full mouth series of films every 3 to 5 years.
Most healthy patients are candidates for sedation. We will review your medical history with you prior to recommending the treatment. One of the most common contraindications for nitrous sedation is a blocked airway due to sinus infections.
We’re always here to help. If you don’t see an answer to your oral health question, please call us.

Although we provide post-op instructions at the time of your appointment, you may find that you forgot something or have a question about your treatment once you get home. Here are a few important things for you to keep in mind after particular types of procedures:
Rinse with warm salt water every hour as needed to reduce inflammation. Over the counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen may be needed during the first day after your procedure.
Some teeth may be sensitive or sore after their treatments. Ibuprofen and a warm compress can help alleviate discomfort.
Hypersensitivity may be noticeable after whitening. To discourage this, use sensitivity toothpaste or a fluoride rinse at least once a day.
Avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, carbonated beverages or hard foods for the first 2-3 days after your extraction. Otherwise, a dry socket may develop. Keep gauze against the extraction site, changing it out regularly until bleeding stops. A tea bag can also be used as a compress to encourage blood clotting.
After your root canal therapy, you may experience some soreness from the injection site or from having your mouth open for a longer period of time. Apply a warm compress to the side of the face and take ibuprofen as needed.
Questions or concerns? Call us anytime.
