Q. How often should I see a dentist?
A. The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. Our office also recommends a minimum of two visits per year.
Q. What should I expect during my first appointment?
A. Your initial comprehensive exam will last approximately one hour. One of our staff members will compile your medical and dental history during your first visit. This visit will help us get acquainted with each other and learn about your goals and desires for your dental treatment. Generally, X-rays may be taken allowing Dr. Rogers to examine the jaws' structure, teeth position and teeth decay. We will evaluate your oral condition by doing the following:
- an oral cancer screening
- temporomandibular joint examination
- caries (decay) exam
- periodontal (gum) exam
- occlusal (bite) exam
- digital photographic exam
We will note existing dental restorations and problems then propose any treatment recommendations.
During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, clean your teeth and make plans for treatment, as needed. We will discuss any pain or problems you may be experiencing and answer any questions you may have.
Q. What if I have an emergency?
A. Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will be glad to work you in to our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. After hours, over the weekend and during holidays, please call our office for Dr. Rogers’ emergency contact numbers.
Q. Are payment plans available for my dental treatment?
A. Yes. We offer third-party payment options and also accept most major credit cards. If you have dental insurance, we will process your claim for you electronically so your reimbursement is expedited.
Q. Can the dentist whiten my teeth?
A. There are several methods available for bleaching the teeth: in-office, overnight or daily. One session of in-office bleaching generally lasts one and a half to two hours, and you can read or relax during the treatment.
For overnight bleaching, we make an impression of your teeth and create a mouthguard that fits your bite. Each day you fill the mouthguard with a small amount of bleaching gel and wear it overnight or for a few hours during the day. The overnight bleaching process takes approximately two weeks.
Other over-the-counter daily bleaching products are available, but it is important to only use these bleaching products under the supervision of a dentist. To achieve the whitening results you desire, the ADA recommends that you seek the professional advice of a dentist, including examination and diagnosis of the cause of tooth discoloration, before you begin any bleaching program.
Q. What if I have a gap in my teeth, a chipped tooth or teeth that do not respond to normal bleaching methods?
A. We have many different procedures that can help these problems. Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Porcelain veneers can be positioned to close gaps. Bonding utilizes a composite resin material to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth.
