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PATIENT INFO

PATIENT INFORMATION    •    PATIENT FORMS    •    ACCESSIBILITY    •    FAQ    •    LINKS

Patient Info
PATIENT INFORMATION

Appointment

The first step towards a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment. 

Patient Forms

If you are a new patient to our office, please visit our Patient Forms section to download our new patient bundle with forms that will need to be filled out when you arrive at our office. Printing them, filling them out and bringing them with you will allow us to attend to your medical needs more quickly than completing them on your arrival. 

Payment Options

For your convenience, we accept cash, personal checks, money orders, and most major credit cards. Payment is expected at the time services are performed.  Feel free to contact our office if your treatment plan requires more comprehensive dental work and you want to discuss financial arrangements.

Dental Insurance

We accept the following insurance: 

(Please contact our office for more Insurance details.)

  • Delta Dental

  • Guardian

  • Some Blue Cross/Blue Shield

  • MetLife

  • CIGNA

 

At the end of the day we all have to understand that it is the patients responsibility to understand and know their insurance since this is a contract they have agreed upon along with their employer and carrier. Insurance is only a way to help pay for dental care and every little bit helps. We always are willing to help you navigate through your insurance but we are not responsible for the details and limitations of your plan. Our only responsibility is to prescribe what's best for you.

CareCredit® Dental Financing

We are now able to offer our patients extended monthly payments through Care Credit with six months no interest. 

Our goal is to help you afford your dental choices. We understand that affordability is an important consideration in getting the dental treatment you need and deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click Here to view some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about dentistry and oral health issues.

Interesting Dental Websites

In addition to our own website, there are other sites on the Web that provide interesting and helpful dental information.  Because we are committed to improving the oral healthcare knowledge of our patients, we provide a selection of links to other sites you might find interesting and informative. To view these visit our Links Section.

Patient Forms
PATIENT FORMS

Fill Out Our New Patient Forms Before Your Appointment

 

If you are a new patient to our office, the attached file contains our new patient bundle with forms that will need to be filled out when you arrive at our office. This bundle includes our Patient Welcome Info, Patient Payment Info, Patient Missed Appointment Doc, and Patient Privacy Protection Info. Printing them, filling them out and bringing them with you will allow us to attend to your medical needs more quickly than completing them upon your arrival.  Thank you and please contact our office if you have any questions at all.

NEW PATIENT FORM

Accessibility
ACCESSIBILITY

Fulton NY Dentist – Dr. Yamilka Serrano & Dr. Juan Lopez

Dental Health Solutions – World Class Smiles!


Come experience all that modern dentistry has to offer! At Dental Health Solutions, we provide the whole family with comprehensive dental services in our Fulton-based state-of-the-art facility. It is our goal to help each of our patients achieve and maintain long-lasting dental health, through general, restorative and cosmetic procedures. 

Dental Health Solutions dedication to all of our patients

  • It is the mission of our office to strive for, attain and deliver the highest level of dental care for our patients.

  • We will treat every patient in a caring, concerned, empathetic, understanding, honest and professional manner.

  • We will maintain the highest ethical, personal and professional standards possible.

  • We will strive daily for professional dental excellence through our caring, sincere and professional treatment for each of our patients.

  • We will be measured both personally and professionally through our belief and dedication towards providing each and every one of our patients with the best dental care possible.

  • We will dedicate ourselves towards fostering a friendly, positive, professional, supportive, educational, stimulating and family oriented dental office environment.

 

Our Dental Services

Dr. Lopez, Dr. Serrano, and the staff of Dental Health Solutions are dedicated to improving the quality of life for our Fulton community. We fully support our local economy and all of our labs and restorations are made here in Upstate New York. Our services are wide-ranging and address many oral health needs.

Dental Health Solutions – World Class Smiles!

When you and your family visit our state of the art office in Fulton, NY dentist Dr. Yamilka Serrano & Dr. Juan Lopez your oral health is our top priority. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized, quality dental care that you deserve.

Patients from the Fulton and surrounding area are always welcome. New patients receive a thorough initial exam in order for our staff to fully understand the current oral health condition and to get to know the patient’s health history. Routine cleanings are strongly encouraged to maintain optimum oral health. The procedures performed at Dental Health Solutions are done with the fullest quality, function and aesthetic results in mind. We offer fluoride treatments, white fillings, crowns and bridges, porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dentures and dental implant restorations to maintain a healthy bite over the long-term.


We service patients in need of root canals, help with gum disease, and will provide treatment for TMJ conditions.   

Improving Smiles Every Day!

As a full-service office, smile reconstructions are possible. Drs. Lopez and Serrano will sit with patients and listen to concerns, discuss treatment options and then develop a concise plan to recreate your beautiful smile.

As family dentists, we treat patients of all ages. Whether you are a child, teenager, adult or senior, we can provide you with the best in dental health and wellness. 

To make an appointment, or to discuss any of our services and treatments, please contact us today. We look forward to serving you and your family at our Fulton office. 

New Patients – Download new patient forms, find answers to frequently asked questions, or for more information regarding payment options and appointment procedures.

FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Have Your Dental Questions Answered By Dental Health Solutions


Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about dentistry and oral health issues.  If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.

Click on a question below to see the answer.

Links
  • What should I do if I have bad breath?
    Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning. There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent. What may cause bad breath? Morning time – Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath. Certain foods – Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled. Poor oral hygiene habits – Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth. Periodontal (gum) disease – Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums. Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances – May also contribute to bad breath. Dry mouth (Xerostomia) – May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing. Tobacco products – Dry the mouth, causing bad breath. Dieting – Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat. Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals – Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away. Certain medical conditions and illnesses – Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad breath. Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with you dentist. What can I do to prevent bad breath? Practice good oral hygiene – Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning. See your dentist regularly – Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits. Stop smoking/chewing tobacco – Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit. Drink water frequently – Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria. Use mouthwash/rinses – Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem. In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.
  • How often should I brush and floss?
    Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease. Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease. Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids. Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste. Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums. Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth. Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time. Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands. Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion. Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth. Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss. Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
  • Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
    Over the years there has been some concern as to the safety of amalgam (silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and zinc, bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy is due to claims that the exposure to the vapor and minute particles from the mercury can cause a variety of health problems. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), up to 76% of dentists use silver containing mercury to fill teeth. The ADA also states that silver fillings are safe and that studies have failed to find any link between silver containing mercury and any medical disorder. The general consensus is that amalgam (silver) fillings are safe. Along with the ADA’s position, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization, the FDA, and others support the use of silver fillings as safe, durable, and cost effective. The U.S. Public Health Service says that the only reason not to use silver fillings is when a patient has an allergy to any component of this type of filling. The ADA has had fewer than 100 reported incidents of an allergy to components of silver fillings, and this is out of countless millions of silver fillings over the decades. Although studies indicate that there are no measurable health risks to patients who have silver fillings, we do know that mercury is a toxic material when we are exposed at high, unsafe levels. For instance, we have been warned to limit the consumption of certain types of fish that carry high levels of mercury in them. However, with respect to amalgam fillings, the ADA maintains that when the mercury combines with the other components of the filling, it becomes an inactive substance that is safe. There are numerous options to silver fillings, including composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, and gold fillings. We encourage you to discuss these options with your dentist so you can determine which is the best option for you.
  • How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
    You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits. 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 and checked for cavities. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health. These include: Medical history review: Knowing the status of any current medical conditions, new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your overall health and also your dental health. Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions. Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer. Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease. Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments. Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc. Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for sometime and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental instruments. Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease! Teeth polishing: Removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during toothbrushing and scaling. Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed (electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, fluorides, rinses, etc.). Review dietary habits: Your eating habits play a very important role in your dental health. As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves quite a lot more than just checking for cavities and polishing your teeth. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular check-ups and cleanings.
  • How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?
    Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist. Periodontal disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage. Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease: Smoking or chewing tobacco – Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers to form plaque and tartar on their teeth. Certain tooth or appliance conditions – Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria. Many medications – Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives. Some medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty – Can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins. Systemic diseases – Diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc. Genetics may play role – Some patients may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums. Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen. Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss. Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth. New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss. Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone). Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present. Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth. Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth. Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
  • Why is it important to use dental floss?
    Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth. Unfortunately, our toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the gums. Also, when plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it hardens and turns into calculus (tartar). This will further irritate and inflame the gums and also slowly destroy the bone. This is the beginning of periodontal disease. How to floss properly: Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands. Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion. Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth. Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss. Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!
  • How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?
    If you’re feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth, or just want to improve your smile, cosmetic dental treatments may be the answer to a more beautiful, confident smile. Cosmetic dentistry has become very popular in the last several years, not only due to the many advances in cosmetic dental procedures and materials available today, but also because patients are becoming more and more focused on improving their overall health. This includes dental prevention and having a healthier, whiter, more radiant smile. There are many cosmetic dental procedures available to improve your teeth and enhance your smile. Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full mouth make-over. Ask your dentist how you can improve the health and beauty of your smile with cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic Procedures: Teeth Whitening: Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or discolored by age, food, drink, and smoking. Teeth darkened as a result of injury or taking certain medications can also be bleached, but the effectiveness depends on the degree of staining present. Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings: Also known as “bonding”, composite fillings are now widely used instead of amalgam (silver) fillings to repair teeth with cavities, and also to replace old defective fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are also used to repair chipped, broken, or discolored teeth. This type of filling is also very useful to fill in gaps and to protect sensitive, exposed root surfaces caused by gum recession. Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin custom-made, tooth-colored shells that are bonded onto the fronts of teeth to create a beautiful individual smile. They can help restore or camouflage damaged, discolored, poorly shaped, or misaligned teeth. Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal tooth structure to be removed from the surface of the tooth. Porcelain Crowns (caps): A crown is a tooth-colored, custom-made covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. Crowns protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. They are ideal for teeth that have large, fractured or broken fillings and also for those that are badly decayed. Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial roots that are surgically placed into the jaw to replace one or more missing teeth. Porcelain crowns, bridges, and dentures can be made specifically to fit and attach to implants, giving a patient a strong, stable, and durable solution to removable dental appliances. Orthodontics: Less visible and more effective brackets and wires are making straightening teeth with orthodontics much more appealing to adult patients. Also, in some cases, teeth may be straightened with custom-made, clear, removable aligners that require no braces. Thanks to the advances in modern dentistry, cosmetic treatments can make a difference in making your smile shine!
  • What are porcelain veneers and how can they improve my smile?
    Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very durable and will not stain, making them a very popular solution for those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile. Veneers may be used to restore or correct the following dental conditions: Severely discolored or stained teeth Unwanted or uneven spaces Worn or chipped teeth Slight tooth crowding Misshapen teeth Teeth that are too small or large Getting veneers usually requires two visits. Veneers are created from an impression (mold) of your teeth that is then sent to a professional dental laboratory where each veneer is custom-made (for shape and color) for your individual smile. With little or no anesthesia, teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the front surface of the teeth to allow for the small thickness of veneers. The veneers are carefully fitted and bonded onto the tooth surface with special bonding cements and occasionally a specialized light may be used to harden and set the bond. Veneers are an excellent dental treatment that can dramatically improve your teeth and give you a natural, beautiful smile.
  • What can I do about stained or discoloured teeth?
    Since teeth whitening has now become the number one aesthetic concern of many patients, there are many products and methods available to achieve a brighter smile. Professional teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel, and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter products are also available, but they are much less effective than professional treatments and may not be approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel wears away, eventually revealing a darker or yellow shade. The color of our teeth also comes from the inside of the tooth, which may become darker over time. Smoking, drinking coffee, tea, and wine may also contribute to tooth discoloration, making our teeth yellow and dull. Sometimes, teeth can become discolored from taking certain medications as a child, such as tetracycline. Excessive fluoridation (fluorosis) during tooth development can also cause teeth to become discolored. It’s important to have your teeth evaluated by your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for bleaching. Occasionally, tetracycline and fluorosis stains are difficult to bleach and your dentist may offer other options, such as veneers or crowns to cover up such stains. Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is also important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. before bleaching begins. Once the bleaching is done, your dentist can match the new restorations to the shade of the newly whitened teeth. Since teeth whitening is not permanent, a touch-up may be needed every several years to keep your smile looking bright. The most widely used professional teeth whitening systems: Home teeth whitening systems: At-home products usually come in a gel form that is placed in a custom-fitted mouthguard (tray), created from a mold of your teeth. The trays are worn either twice a day for approximately 30 minutes, or overnight while you sleep. It usually takes several weeks to achieve the desired results depending on the degree of staining and the desired level of whitening. In office teeth whitening: This treatment is done in the dental office and you will see results immediately. It may require more than one visit, with each visit lasting 30 to 60 minutes. While your gums are protected, a bleaching solution is applied to the teeth. A special light may be used to enhance the action of the agent while the teeth are whitened. Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity after having their teeth whitened. This sensation is temporary and subsides shortly after you complete the bleaching process, usually within a few days to one weak. Teeth whitening can be very effective and can give you a brighter, whiter, more confident smile!
  • What are my options if I have missing teeth?
    With many state-of-the-art dental treatments and prevention options available in dentistry today, there are fewer reasons for having to extract (remove) teeth. When something does go wrong with a tooth, we try to do everything possible to restore the tooth to its original function. Removing a tooth is the last option because we know that removal may lead to severe and costly dental and cosmetic problems if the tooth is not replaced. Losing a tooth can be a very traumatic experience and it’s very unfortunate when it does happen. Injury, accident, fracture, severe dental decay, and gum disease are the major reasons for having to remove a tooth. If teeth are lost due to injury or have to be removed, it is imperative that they be replaced to avoid cosmetic and dental problems in the future. When a tooth is lost, the jaw bone that helped to support that tooth begins to atrophy, causing the teeth on either side to shift or tip into the open space of the lost tooth. Also, the tooth above or below the open space will start to move towards the open space because there is no opposing tooth to bite on. These movements may create problems such as decay, gum disease, excessive wear on certain teeth, and TMJ (jaw joint) problems. These problems and movements do not result immediately, but will eventually appear, compromising your chewing abilities, the health of your bite, and the beauty of your smile. Options for replacement of missing teeth: Removable bridges - This type of bridge is a good solution for replacing one or more missing teeth, especially in complex dental situations where other replacement options are not possible. They are usually made of tooth-colored, artificial teeth combined with metal clasps that hook onto adjacent natural teeth. Removable bridges are the most economical option for replacing missing teeth, but may be the least aesthetically pleasing. This is because the metal clasps on the appliances are often impossible to completely conceal. Fixed bridges - This type of bridge is generally made of porcelain or composite material and is anchored (cemented) permanently to a natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth site. The benefit of this type of bridge is that it is fixed (not removable) and it is very sturdy. The disadvantage is that in order to create a fixed appliance, two healthy, natural teeth will have to be crowned (capped) to hold the bridge in place. Dentures - This type of tooth replacement is used when most or all of the natural teeth are missing in one dental arch. Dentures are removable artificial teeth that are made to closely resemble the patients’ original teeth. Implants - Are a great way to replace one or more missing teeth. They may also be great to support ill fitting dentures. A dental implant is an artificial root that is surgically placed into the jaw bone to replace a missing tooth. An artificial tooth is placed on the implant, giving the appearance and feel of a natural tooth. Implants are very stable, durable, and are the most aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement option. If you are missing teeth, ask us if they need replacement and what options are available to you. Together we will select the best replacement option for your particular case. Prevention and early treatment is always less involved and less costly than delaying treatment and allowing a serious problem to develop.
  • What can be done about old, unattractive, or discolored fillings?"
    Most of us have fillings in our mouths that date back many years and some may have even been placed during our childhood. These fillings may now be old, dark, and unattractive, making us feel self-conscious when we smile, laugh, and talk. Old fillings are not only unattractive, they may also be defective. When a filling is old, the margins (space between the tooth and filling) may eventually open and allow bacteria and food debris to enter, potentially causing dental decay. Your dentist can check your fillings and evaluate if they are defective and need replacement. Also, if you simply want to replace fillings that are unattractive, you and your dentist can decide which ones should be replaced first and what replacement options would best suit you. There are many state-of-the-art dental filling materials and procedures available today that are quick, painless, and cost effective for replacing old, unattractive or defective fillings. Options for replacing old, unattractive, or discolored fillings: Composite (bonding) fillings - These are tooth-colored fillings that can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth. They are particularly well suited for use in front teeth or visible parts of teeth and are one of the best ways to improve the health and beauty of your smile. Crowns (Caps) - These types of restoration are used when a tooth is too damaged and cannot be repaired with a filling or other type of restoration. A crown is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens the remaining tooth structure and can be made of gold, porcelain, and other tooth-colored materials. Inlays/Onlays - These restorations are custom made fillings. They can be made of composite resin, porcelain or gold and are made by a dental laboratory and placed by a dentist. Inlays/onlays are usually best for the posterior chewing surfaces of teeth and are utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective/unattractive fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. Porcelain veneers - Used primarily in the front teeth, veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted and permanently cemented to the front surface of teeth. They are a great solution for fixing discolored, pitted, shipped, malformed, or slightly crooked teeth. Veneers are also used if you have unwanted spaces. Veneers are very durable, natural looking, and do not stain. This makes veneers a very popular solution for restoring a smile impaired by old, unattractive fillings. As you can see, there are various options for replacing old, unattractive fillings. These treatments will provide strong, natural, and long-lasting replacement solutions to enhance the health and beauty of your smile.
  • What does heart disease and other medical conditions have to do with periodontal (gum) disease?
    Many people are unaware that having periodontal disease (the destruction of gum tissue and bone that hold our teeth in place) can affect your overall health. Periodontal disease is one of the most common infections; often more prevalent than the common cold! Periodontal disease is not only the number one reason people lose teeth; it can also affect the health of your body! Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, and in its earliest stages, it’s called gingivitis. It starts when an accumulation of plaque (a colony of bacteria, food debris, and saliva) is NOT regularly removed from the gums and teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins/acids that irritate and infect the gums and eventually destroy the jaw bone that supports the teeth. When periodontal disease is not treated it can eventually lead to tooth loss! There are numerous studies that have looked into the correlation between gum disease and major medical conditions. These studies suggest people with periodontal disease are at a greater risk of systemic disease and indicate that periodontal disease may cause oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to major organs and begin new infections. Research suggests that periodontal bacteria in the blood stream may: Contribute to the development of heart disease Increase the risk of stroke Compromise the health of those that have diabetes or respiratory diseases Increase a woman’s risk of having a preterm, low-birth weight baby Researchers conclude there is still much research to be done to understand the link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases, but enough research has been done to support that infections in the mouth can play havoc elsewhere in the body. To ensure a healthy, disease-free mouth, we recommend the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings, which include a periodontal evaluation. Also, diligent home care and a proper diet can help reduce the plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Remember….the mouth body connection! Taking care of your oral health may contribute to your overall medical health!
  • When are sealants recommended?
    Although thorough brushing and flossing remove most food particles and bacteria from easy to reach tooth surfaces, they do not reach the deep grooves on chewing surfaces of teeth. More than 75 percent of dental decay begins in these deep grooves (called pits and fissures). Toothbrush bristles are too large to possibly fit and clean most of these areas. This is where sealants play an important role. A sealant is a thin plastic coating that covers and protects the chewing surfaces of molars, premolars, and any deep grooves or pits on teeth. Sealant material forms a protective, smooth barrier covering natural depressions and grooves in the teeth, making it much easier to clean and help keep these areas free of decay. Who may need sealants? Children and teenagers - As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16. Infants - Baby teeth are occasionally sealed if the teeth have deep grooves and the child is cavity prone. Adults - Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions that are difficult to clean. Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental hygienist and the process only takes minutes per tooth. After the chewing surfaces are roughened with an acid solution that helps the sealant adhere to the tooth, the sealant material is “painted” onto the tooth surface, where it hardens and bonds to the teeth. Sometimes a special light will be used to help the sealant material harden. After sealant treatment, it’s important to avoid chewing on ice cubes, hard candy, popcorn kernels, or any hard or sticky foods. Your sealants will be checked for wear and chipping at your regular dental check-up. Combined with good home care, a proper diet, and regular dental check-ups, sealants are very effective in helping prevent tooth decay.
  • What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
    We’re all at risk for having a tooth knocked out. More than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year! If we know how to handle this emergency situation, we may be able to actually save the tooth. Teeth that are knocked out may be possibly reimplanted if we act quickly, yet calmly, and follow these simple steps: Locate the tooth and handle it only by the crown (chewing part of the tooth), NOT by the roots. DO NOT scrub or use soap or chemicals to clean the tooth. If it has dirt or debris on it, rinse it gently with your own saliva or whole milk. If that is not possible, rinse it very gently with water. Get to a dentist within 30 minutes. The longer you wait, the less chance there is for successful reimplantation. Ways to transport the tooth Try to replace the tooth back in its socket immediately. Gently bite down on gauze, a wet tea bag or on your own teeth to keep the tooth in place. Apply a cold compress to the mouth for pain and swelling as needed. If the tooth cannot be placed back into the socket, place the tooth in a container and cover with a small amount of your saliva or whole milk. You can also place the tooth under your tongue or between your lower lip and gums. Keep the tooth moist at all times. Do not transport the tooth in a tissue or cloth. Consider buying a “Save-A-Tooth” storage container and keeping it as part of your home first aid kit. The kit is available in many pharmacies and contains a travel case and fluid solution for easy tooth transport. The sooner the tooth is replaced back into the socket, the greater the likelihood it has to survive and possibly last for many years. So be prepared, and remember these simple steps for saving a knocked-out tooth. You can prevent broken or knocked-out teeth by: Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports Always wearing your seatbelt Avoiding fights Avoid chewing hard items such as ice, popcorn kernels, hard breads, etc.
  • Why straighten teeth?
    Straighter teeth perform chewing, biting and speaking functions more effectively than crooked teeth. In addition, a straight smile boosts confidence, is aesthetically pleasing to look at, and can help stave off a wide variety of dental ailments. There are several types of malocclusion including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and overcrowding. Each of these alignment problems negatively impacts the functionality and cosmetic appearance of the teeth. Here is a brief overview of some of the main disorders associated with crooked teeth: Periodontitis – Periodontitis or gum disease begins with a bacterial infection. The bacterial infection is caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Crooked teeth are hard to clean effectively, which means that debris, plaque and bacteria can build up in hard-to-reach areas. Straight teeth are much easier to clean and are at less risk of contracting gum disease. Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ) - Crooked teeth can lead to improper jaw alignment, which in turn causes a painful condition known as TMJ. Severe headaches, jaw pain, lockjaw and the grinding of teeth characterize this debilitating disorder. Tooth injury – Straight teeth creates a strong wall, which means injuries are less likely to occur. Crooked teeth are weaker and often protrude, making them far more vulnerable to external injury. Uneven wear – Crooked teeth cause some of the teeth to work harder than others when biting and chewing. Straight teeth share the workload evenly, meaning less risk of injury and better aesthetics. Teeth can be straightened using either orthodontic braces or customized aligning trays. Orthodontic braces are usually affixed to the teeth for a set duration. The brackets and archwires are tightened regularly by the orthodontist and removed when treatment is complete. Fixed braces can be placed on the front side or back side of the teeth and are effective for most types of malocclusion. Aligning trays are fully removable and are used where the malocclusion is less severe, and the teeth need to move a shorter distance. These trays are replaced every few weeks for the duration of the treatment, and have proven to be equally effective for straightening teeth. If you have questions about orthodontics and straightening teeth, please ask your orthodontist.
  • Why doesn't my dental insurance cover all the cost for my dental treatment?
    Dental insurance is not really insurance since its not a payment to cover a loss like you would have if your basement flooded. it is a benefit usually provided in conjunction with your employer to assist you in paying for routine care. the employer selects a plan that they can cover the premiums costs per month. most plans will only cover a portion of the total cost.
  • My plan says that my exams and other procedures are covered at 100%. Why do I still have to pay?
    The 100% percent term refers to the fees dictated by the insurance. lets say they cover an exam up to 60 $. that amount would be there 100% payment meaning their maximum payment. If the cost for the exam is 70 the you have to pay the difference.
  • So why do they say they cover at 100%?
    You always should understand your insurance since this is a contract you entered to with the insurance company. Although we do our best to help you navigate through a contract we did not enter to it is ultimately your responsibility to contact your human resources department for questions regarding your contract.
  • How does my insurance come up with this allowed payments and how come they are different form your fees?
    Our dental fees our purely based on operational costs. Like any small business their is an overhead and commitments we have to meet in a monthly basis. Examples of this commitments that affect our overhead are salaries for employees,RENT, utilities, health insurance, supplies, dental supply companies , loans etc. this is the only determining factor in how a dental office sets their fees. Your insurance sets a fee schedule determined with your employer that is previously negotiated. this listing is based on the cost of premiums and were you are located in your state and city. your employer most likely selected a premium that they can meet in their operational costs. what the insurance calls usual customary and reasonable is truly the negotiated payments that our reasonable for all parties to benefit from the arrangement. Your dentist has no influence or is at any point part of how you and your employer enter into this agreement.
  • Why is their an annual maximum benefit?
    Maximum limits is what the carrier has to cover per year. this once again is another aspect that you our responsible to understand and we can help with. ultimately it is your human resources department that will have all the answers for you.
  • Why do some dentist's appear on a list provided by my insurance and others do not?
    Usually dentist on the list provided by your insurance have agreed into a contact with your carrier. This contracts have restrictions and requirements that all parties have to meet. The fact that your dentist is not in the list does not mean their is something wrong with your dentist. some dentist are simply not comfortable with certain requirements and restrictions provided by the carrier.
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Browse Through These Links For More Information

 

In addition to our own website, there are other sites on the Web that provide interesting and helpful dental information.  Because we are committed to improving the oral healthcare knowledge of our patients, we are providing the following selection of links to other sites you might find interesting and informative.  We have grouped some of the links into various categories to provide quick access to the topics of greatest interest to you.

If you have a suggestion for a new link, please send us an email, as we are always looking for good resources to pass along to our valued patients and visitors to our website.  We hope you find these sites helpful!

 

General Dental Websites

 

The following links provide some good general information on dentistry.

 

  • Academy of General Dentistry
    The AGD’s consumer information section provides information on more than 50 oral dental health topics.
     

  • American Dental Association
    Provides information for the general public including dental care articles, dental insurance information, and information for students interested in dentistry.
     

  • Glossary of Dental Terms
    American Dental Association’s comprehensive reference provides a glossary of dental terms as they relate to the public.

 

 

Oral Health Care & Products

 

Links to sites providing helpful information on oral health and home care products patients can use to maintain optimum oral health.

 

  • Colgate
    Trusted resource for dental health information and oral care products.
     

  • Crest
    One of the world's most trusted brands in dental products.
     

  • Oral-B
    Oral-B developed this learning center for dental health education to promote oral care habits that are essential to the lifelong health of teeth and gums.  The site includes information and advice for children, adults, and dental health teachers.
     

  • Sonicare
    Learn how the Sonicare toothbrush creates an indescribable clean feeling, the benefits you can expect, and even take a factory tour.

 

 

Other Interesting Websites

  • Healthy Smiles 2010
    A program with a goal to combat America’s Oral Health Epidemic by improving the oral health of more than 50 million American children and their families by the year 2010.
     

  • National Museum of Dentistry
    The museum, a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate, is a lively national center where visitors learn the importance of a healthy smile and are fascinated by the rich history of dentistry.

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