Oral Health Care Maintenance
Why do I need to have my teeth cleaned 2, 3 or more times per year?
Why do I need to have an exam when I just want to come in for a cleaning?
Why do I have to brush and floss so often?
Dental Procedures
Do you offer teeth whitening?
Is teeth whitening bad for my teeth?
Why do I need x-rays? How often?
What should I do to fix bad breath?
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Financing and Forms
What payment options do you offer?
Why do I have to give you all this health information?
Anxiety Issues
How do I know my visit to your office will be better than experiences in other dental offices?
Children"s Dental Questions
How can I prepare my child for a dentist visit?
When will I know if my child need braces?
Why are sealants a good idea for my child?
Oral Health Care Maintenance
Why do I need to have my teeth cleaned 2, 3 or more times per
year?
Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of
your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned, polished and checked for cavities. For most patients
a cleaning every 6 month is adequate. Some patients may require cleanings every 3 or 4 months due to periodontal
health concerns.
Why do I need to have an exam when I just want to come in for
a cleaning?
We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular check-ups as well
as cleanings. It allows an opportunity to detect any tooth decay or gum problems early, which can avoid more serious
issues later.
Why do I have to brush and floss so often?
Good oral hygiene is necessary to prevent tartar build-up and plaque which is the major cause of cavities, gum disease,
gingivitis and even tooth loss. Brushing at least twice a day helps reduce chances of lingering food particles
and massages the gums to keep them firm. Flossing also helps prevent the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Daily
habits are easy to establish and if your take good care of your teeth, your teeth can take good care of you!
Dental Procedures
Do you offer teeth whitening?
Yes, we offer a professional system of tooth whitening that is safe and gentle.
Is teeth whitening bad for my teeth?
Tooth whitening does not weaken tooth structure but temporary sensitivity may occur.
Why do I need x-rays? How often should I have x-rays? How much
is too much exposure?
Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs) are essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions. The frequency of necessary x-rays depends on each individual
and the overall state of the patient's health. The radiation exposure is very minimal, however if you have a
concern about having x-rays taken, please discuss this with Dr. Hartigan.
What should I do to fix bad breath?
Underlying causes of bad breath may be related to decay and infection. We will screen for these concerns.
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Only a dentist can diagnose gum disease or periodontal disease. Bleeding of gums or loose teeth are indicators of
potential problems.
Financing and Forms
What payment options do you offer?
We accept many insurance payments, in addition to cash, credit cards and personal checks. We offer "Care Credit" for
financing.
Why do I have to give you all this health information?
Your medical history review is a complete picture of your health. Knowing the status of any current medical conditions,
new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your overall health including your dental health.
Anxiety Issues
How do I know my visit to your office will be better than experiences
in other dental offices?
Please come by our office to visit with us about your previous medical oral health experiences. We will make every
effort to ensure a comfortable, and an anxiety free visit as we provide dental services to you.
Children"s Dental Care
How can I prepare my child for a dentist visit?
We hope your child will view the dental team as people who take gentle care of their family's teeth. This positive
feeling starts at home with parents and siblings doing their best to say positive things about teeth being "shiny
and clean". Let them know we have great books and toys to explore as well as their very own toothbrush to keep.
When will I know if my child need braces?
With each cleaning and examination your child's oral health will be carefully monitored. If braces are recommended
you will be referred to an orthodontist when appropriate.
Why are sealants a good idea for my child?
Sealants are a wonderful idea for your child's adult molars and have been proven to prevent cavities with proper
brushing and cleaning.