Do
you take my insurance?
While we recognize the valuable aid insurance
can be with dental treatment, our recommendations
are based on medical and dental need not insurance
coverage. The office staff will be happy to file
claims on your behalf and do their best to maximize
the use of your benefits. As with any business,
we ask for payment at the time of service. For
your convenience, we accept Visa, MasterCard,
Discover, checks and cash. For extended payment
plans, financing can be arranged with CareCredit
Corp. They offer low and/or no interest payment
plans and applications can be made by phone or
internet.
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Why replace silver fillings?
Silver fillings have served the dental community
well for a number of years. Amalgam (silver fillings
contain approximately 50% mercury, 20% silver
and smaller amounts of copper, tin and zinc) had
been the best material available. However, over
time as the metal expands and contracts, it can
cause the tooth to crack and require a more costly
crown. Today, composite resins allow dentists
to place biocompatible fillings that expand &
contract less and are kinder to the natural tooth
structure. This more conservative restoration
is also tooth colored for an undetectable appearance.
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What is TMD?
TMD stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It is
the joint of the jaws. When the joint is misaligned,
it can cause headaches, popping or clicking, tingling
hands & fingers, ringing ears and sore neck
and shoulders. TMD dysfunction can be caused from
traumatic injury, abuse or stress. Dr. Pater-Ladd treats the TMD patient
with a non-invasive, orthopedic appliance. Computerized
diagnostics are used to establish the optimal
jaw position. Then an orthopedic appliance is
constructed and worn to retrain the muscles of
the jaw. This therapy is the most cost-effective
non-invasive treatment for TMD available.
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Why would I need antibiotics for tooth
cleaning?
When cleaning your teeth it is possible to introduce
bacteria into your bloodstream. Under normal circumstances,
this presents no problem, however, if you have
had a joint replacement, rheumatic fever or heart
problems, your physician will require you to take
an antibiotic prior to your dental treatment.
The antibiotic protects the weakened area and
prevents a bacterial infection. Remember, an ounce
of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
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Is bleaching my teeth safe?
In today's market, several over-the-counter bleaching
products are available. When used according to
the manufacturer's recommendations they are safe
and effective, but require multiple applications
daily over periods of weeks. However, the whitening
process offered by C.A.R.E. Dentistry can bring
about a dramatic change in the appearance of your
smile in one appointment. Laser whitening is safe,
fast and affordable. Let us rejuvenate your smile!
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How can xylitol taste sweet and be good
for my teeth?
The acid that is produced when the bacteria in
your mouth and sugar combine causes cavities.
Bacteria in your mouth can't break down xylitol
so no acid is produced. Xylitol is a natural sweetener
found in strawberries, plums and pears. Candy
and gum manufacturers now use it in their products.
Xylitol also encourages salivation, which washes
the mouth and helps prevent cavities. Be a label
reader!
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What can I do about snoring?
Dental professionals can now offer relief from
snoring with the use of a snore guard. A snore
guard is a custom fabricated acrylic appliance
(similar to an athletic mouth guard) worn during
sleep to help keep your airway open. You can obtain
a more restful sleep and so can your family!
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Why does the dentist use a laser?
There are many advantages to using a laser over
conventional instruments. First is patient comfort.
The laser does not transmit heat and vibration
like a dental drill. It also reduces swelling,
bleeding and post-operative pain. Laser-trained
dentists and hygienists can treat targeted areas
while leaving surrounding areas unaffected. Laser
cavity preps increase bond strength of tooth-colored
restorations for longer lasting fillings. Lasers
also mean fewer shots and less anesthesia, so
for many procedures there are no needles and no
numb lip!
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When should I bring my infant to the dentist?
Dental professionals & pediatricians now recommend the first dental exam be completed no later than age 18 months. Early detection of dental problems and establishing healthy dietary habits as well as good oral hygiene are the key components to toddler care. The staff of Care Dentistry is pleased to offer "Teeth for Today & Tomorrow," a dental care program for toddlers and young children. Call today for details.
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