Frequently Asked Questions

X-Rays give us a very precise glimpse at the areas we cannot see such as between the teeth and below the gumline. This allows for better diagnosis of decay, fractures, location of nerves and even bone loss

A bridge is suggested when one or more teeth are missing, usually due to an extraction. When a tooth is not there anymore the surrounding teeth behind it and above it, for example, may drift into this new empty space. Eventually it may lead to loss of these drifting teeth as they move out of the bone. A bridge can replace one or more teeth depending on the situation. Above demonstrates how one tooth is replaced by a permanently cemented bridge that spans the gap with a single piece. It has the “missing” tooth suspended between the two on each side that are hollowed out to allow it to slide on and anchor to the existing teeth on each side 

Preventive dentistry is essential in maintaining oral health. Plaque is a sticky film that is always growing on your teeth. It contains bacteria that could lead to bad breath, cavities, and irritate the gums which is called gingivitis. If it remains, it combines with saliva to harden onto tartar or calculus. It contributes to decay, receding gums and gum disease. This build up cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Don’t worry that‘s what we are here for! 

Plaque and it’s harder sisters, tartar and calculus, build up on teeth over time at the gum line. If not removed it begins to irritate the gums and that first stage is gingivitis. The gums eventually may respond by trying to pull away from the irritant and the bacteria it holds. This next stage is receding gums. As the condition worsens into periodontitis the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets. This could lead to tooth loss, and infection that the body tries to fight. This could effect your general health as your immune system is busy trying to fight this infection. Periodontitis is a risk factor for heart and lung disease. Who knew?

Depending on the severity of the gum disease and how far it has progressed,  we would usually suggest “deep cleanings”. In this procedure the doctor will numb the area usually done in quadrants of the mouth such as upper right, lower left etc. Then he will use instruments to loosen and clean away at these deposits that extend under the gum line. On occasion, a medication may be placed in the area to help with bacteria. If treated early enough the gums may begin to reattach somewhat. This may prevent tooth and bone loss. Preventive measures should be taken like flossing and good oral hygiene. More severe cases may be referred to a periodontist 

We accept insurance that allows you to go to a dentist of your choice. Some insurances have networks and typically you can choose to go in or out of this network. Prices vary per dentist and usually the insurance pays a percentage of the fee. If a filling is $120 and insurance pays 80% you would pay 20% or $24. If the  in-network dentist charges more for this same procedure you will of course pay more. There is usually a deductible on the first non-preventive work. This is usually $50 but could be higher. We do our best to estimate what the insurance might pay though in the event we receive less, the patient is responsible for the difference. Also, there are maximums that you could use per year. There are also limits to what they pay per procedure. And super important to keep in mind is that most people think cleaning are “free”. Now, you may not have any out of pocket expenses but the cost of the cleaning, exam and X-rays will be paid and this amount will be deducted from your maximum allowable benefits per year leaving you with less to use for other restorative treatments. Bottom

line is price matters in addition to insurance coverage. We pride ourselves in keeping our fees reasonable 

Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny holes usually caused by bacteria in your mouth that make acids which attack the enamel. This eats away or decays the tooth. This decayed area needs to be removed to keep it from progressing.  Then a filling material is placed to fill in the removed portion. We place only white fillings, no metal anymore! 

A crown is a typically porcelain “cap” or tooth-shaped cover that is permanently cemented over an existing tooth that is in a weakened condition.  When a tooth has more than 50% missing due to decay or if a tooth is fractured it may require a crown to help keep it from breaking. After a root canal the nerve has been removed so the tooth no longer has it‘s blood supply and therefore can get dry and brittle and prone to breakage, a crown works to protect it. 

Root canal treatment is needed when there is damage to the nerve of a tooth. This can be from decay into the nerve, trauma or spontaneous death of the tooth. The decay, if any, is removed and small files are worked into the canal that house the nerve. The files work to hollow out the canal, therefore removing the nerve. A special

filling material is placed in this newly hollowed area.  The tooth may need a build up if a lot was damaged or simply to help strengthen it. Also a crown is indicated to help prevent possible breakage of this weak tooth 

An implant may be suggested instead of a bridge if the teeth on each side are in good condition and bone loss is in check. It consists of the implant placed in the jawbone and a temporary crown replacing the removed tooth. After healing, a permanent crown is placed into the implant. There is more time, healing and costs in this option. Dr Green places the crown or tooth part after your visit to a specialist for the implant. You and your doctor should discuss your personal situation and budget to determine if you are a candidate for this option 

We use Carecredit for those needing payment options. This is a health, wellness and personal credit option that you can use whenever you’d like. Applying does not effect credit scores and there is no obligation to use it. It will be there when you need it. You can quickly see if you prequalify and apply in office or on your phone and get an instant credit decision. A great payment option to move forward with recommended treatment today! 

https://www.carecredit.com/go/977NTV/