Frequently Asked Questions

Pick a question

  1. When will my baby get his teeth?
  2. When will my baby get his baby teeth?
  3. At what ages are my children going to get their permanent teeth in? 
  4. What are Dental Sealants?
  5. Is Nitrous Oxide safe?
  6. What is Gingivitis?
  7. How often should I see the dentist for a check up and cleaning?
  8. How often should I brush my teeth?
  9. How often should I floss my teeth?
  10. How often should I change my toothbrush?
  11. What is Plaque?
  12. How does your mouth affect your overall health?
  13. What is gum disease?
  14. What causes bad breath?
  15. What is Tooth Erosion?
  16. What is Dry Mouth?
  17. What causes Dry Mouth?
  18. What is an Abscessed Tooth?
  19. What is Tooth Decay?
  20. What is a Cavity?
  21. What causes decay?
  22. What is a Veneer?
  23. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
  24. What is Fluoride?
  25. Are silver fillings safe?
  26. What is the difference between a silver and white filling?
  27. What is Calculus?
  28. What is a Dental Implant?
  29. What is Pregnancy Gingivitis?
  30. What is a Biopsy?
  31. What is a Canker Sore?
  32. What causes Canker Sores? 
  33. Canker Sores - When should you see a dentist?
  34. Why is it so important to have good oral hygiene when you are pregnant?
  35. What is TMJ?
  36. What are the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders?
  37. What are Dental Insurance Coverage types?
  38. Dental Insurance - What is Usual, Customary and Reasonable?
  39. Dental Insurance - What is a Yearly Maximum?
  40. Do teeth whitening toothpastes really work?
  41. What is a Periodontist?
  42. What is an Orthodontist?
  43. What is an Oral Surgeon?
  44. What is an Endodontist?
  45. What is a Pediatric Dentist?
  46. What is a Prosthodontist?
  47. What is Bruxism?

  1. When will my baby get his teeth?

    Both baby teeth (deciduous or milk teeth) and permanent teeth have fairly well-defined times of eruption. The ages listed are the normal ages that a baby tooth emerges.
    UPPER ERUPTS BY   LOWER ERUPTS BY
    Central incisor 8-10 Mo   Central incisor 6-9 Mo
    Lateral incisor 8-10 Mo   Lateral incisor 15-21 Mo
    Canine (Cuspid) 16-20 Mo   Canine (Cuspid) 15-21 Mo
    First molar 15-21 Mo   First molar 15-21 Mo
    Second molar 20-24 Mo   Second molar 20-24 Mo

  2. When will my baby get his baby teeth?

    Most babies will start to get their baby teeth between six and 10 months of age.

    Watch for your baby's first teeth to show up in the lower front of his mouth. When this starts to happen, your baby may have some discomfort. The discomfort makes him fussy. The gums may be swollen and tender. He may want to chew things.

    The two upper front teeth will probably be the next teeth to come in. The rest of his teeth will come in slowly. In time, he will have a total of 20 baby teeth.

    Teething sometimes causes a temperature. If your baby has a temperature of 100 degrees or more, call your doctor or clinic. He may be sick and need treatment.

    Gently rubbing your baby's gums with a clean finger, cool spoon or wet cloth can be soothing. You can also give your baby a teething ring or pacifier to chew on.

    Some teething rings are made to be chilled. This cool object against his gums may feel good and make him less fussy. You don't need to put any kind of pain reliever on his gums. These wash away quickly and don't help much.

  3. At what ages are my children going to get their permanent teeth in?

    Both baby and permanent teeth have fairly well-defined times of eruption. The ages listed are the typical ages that an adult tooth has fully emerged.
    UPPER and LOWER ERUPTS BY
    Central incisor 7th Yr
    Lateral incisor 8th Yr
    Canine (Cuspid) 11-12th Yr
    First premolar (Bicuspid) 9th Yr
    Second premolar(Bicuspid) 10th Yr
    First molar 6th Yr
    Second molar 12-13th Yr
    Third molar 17-25th Yr

  4. What are Dental Sealants?

    Dental sealants are a clear and protective coating that is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant protects the tooth from getting a cavity by shielding against bacteria and plaque. Sealants are most commonly placed on children's permanent back teeth because they are more prone to cavities. Most insurance companies pay for sealants on children's teeth. They can also be placed on adult's teeth, however, insurance usually won't cover them.

    Dental sealants are a great way to protect your child's permanent teeth from cavities.

  5. Is Nitrous Oxide safe?

    Nitrous oxide is very safe, because it's easy to inhale and mild. Nitrous oxide is not addictive. While inhaling nitrous oxide, you remain fully conscience and aware of your surroundings. After coming off of the gas, the effects of it are gone.

    If you have respiratory problems or other breathing problems, such as asthma, you should talk with your dentist to see if you are a candidate for nitrous oxide.

  6. What is Gingivitis?

    Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, which can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. The signs and symptoms are red, swollen and puffy gums that bleed easily. If treatment is not received, gingivitis could progress into periodontitis, an advanced and more serious stage of gum disease which includes bone loss and is not reversible. Gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in adults and has also been linked to heart attacks and strokes.

    Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, regular dental checkups and dental cleanings are the best preventions against gum disease.

  7. How often should I see the dentist for a check up and cleaning?

    Most children and adults should see their dentist for a regular cleaning and check up every six months. People at a greater risk for oral diseases should have dental check ups more than twice a year. Tobacco and alcohol use, diabetes, pregnancy, periodontal and gum disease, poor oral hygiene and certain medical conditions are some of the many factors that your dentist takes into consideration when deciding how often you need your dental cleaning and check up.

    Going to your regular check ups will help to keep your gums and teeth healthy as well as detect any early problems such as gum disease, oral cancer and cavities. The best way to maintain good oral health is to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

  8. How often should I brush my teeth?

    According to the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing your teeth helps to remove plaque which causes tooth decay and can lead to gum disease.

    Always use a soft bristled toothbrush with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Make sure that the toothbrush fits inside of your mouth so that you can easily reach all areas. When brushing, use gentle back and forth strokes, brushing all sides of the teeth. Always brush your tongue to remove any bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

  9. How often should I floss my teeth?

    You should floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing in between your teeth removes food debris and plaque from in between the teeth that a toothbrush can't reach. Plaque causes tooth decay and can lead to gum disease. Another great reason to floss is that recent studies have shown that flossing helps to prevent a heart attack or stroke.

    When flossing, be sure to gently insert the floss in between the teeth, without snapping, which could damage the gum tissue. Gently move the floss up and down into the spaces between the gum and teeth. Floss the sides of all of your teeth, even if there isn't a tooth next to another one. There are a number of dental products available that are designed to make flossing easier, such as disposable dental flossers.

  10. How often should I change my toothbrush?

    Adults and children should change their toothbrush every 3 months because they become worn out and are not as effective as they once were. Exceptions to this would be if you were using an electric toothbrush, and the manufacturer states otherwise. Some electric rechargable toothbrushes have very good brush heads that only need to be changed every 6 months. If you have gum disease, you should change your toothbrush every 4 - 6 weeks because bacteria can harbor in the bristles. You should always rinse your toothbrush out with hot water after every use and change it after you have been sick.

  11. What is Plaque?

    Plaque is the soft and sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth from food debris and bacteria. Plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing thoroughly. If plaque is not removed, it can lead to gum disease and cavities. Regular dental check ups, brushing twice a day, flossing daily and eating nutritional snacks will help to prevent plaque from forming on the teeth.

  12. How does your mouth affect your overall health?

    In the past, oral health has been associated only with the mouth. New research has found that the advanced stage of gum disease, periodontitis, is linked with health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Some researchers have even suggested that periodontitis can cause premature birth, low birth weight, pancreatic cancer, high blood sugar levels and even bacterial pneumonia.

    Even though studies have linked gum disease to many health problems, the American Dental Association states that, "just because two conditions occur at the same time, doesn’t necessarily mean that one condition causes the other." Much more research is needed on this subject.
    Bacterial endocarditis is a common risk associated with periodontal disease. Bacterial endocarditis is an infection in the lining of the heart or heart valves, which could damage or destroy these valves.

    Bacterial endocarditis can also occur in patients who have minor heart valve problems, especially if periodontal disease is present. The consensus is that bacteria can get into the bloodstream from infected gums, which can activate infection in the bloodstream within the heart.

    According to the American Heart Association, bacterial endocarditis happens when bacteria in the bloodstream, called bacteremia, lodge on heart tissue that has been damaged or on abnormal heart valves.

  13. What is gum disease?

    There are two major stages of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. Periodontitis is the serious and advanced stage of gum disease, which includes bone loss and is irreversible. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of periodontitis.

    Common symptoms of gum disease are:

    • Frequent bad breath
    • Red and swollen gums that bleed easily
    • Gums separating from the teeth
    • Loose teeth
    • Change in your bite
    • Change in the way partials or dentures fit

     

    While gum disease is a serious problem, it can be easily prevented. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily and regular check ups with your dentist are the best ways to prevent gum disease, thus protecting your overall health.

  14. What causes bad breath?

    According to dental studies, about 85% of people with persistent bad breath (also known as halitosis) have a dental condition that is to blame. These conditions could be one or more of the following:


    If bad breath is the cause of a dental condition, mouthwash will only mask the odor and not cure it.

    Bad Breath Prevention

    Regular dental check ups & cleanings, flossing daily, and brushing your teeth and scraping tongue twice a day can greatly reduce and possibly eliminate bad breath.

  15. What is Tooth Erosion?

    Tooth erosion is the wearing away of tooth enamel by acid, or abrasive brushing. The enamel is the hard calcified tissue that covers and protects the outside of the tooth. It is the hardest substance in our bodies.

    The saliva in our mouth contains calcium which helps to strengthen and remineralize the teeth, however, remineralization can not occur when a great deal of acid is present.

  16. What is Dry Mouth?

    Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is the reduced flow of saliva. Sufficient saliva is needed in the mouth to wash away food debris and reduce plaque by neutralizing the acids that plaque produces. 

    Gingivitis, gum disease and severe tooth decay often occur if dry mouth is left untreated.

  17. What causes Dry Mouth?

    While anyone get dry mouth, also called xerostomia, it is a common problem among older adults. In fact, the Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that 20% of elderly people suffer from dry mouth and this condition is also a hidden cause of tooth loss and gum disease in 30 percent of adults.

    Dry mouth, which is the reduced flow of saliva, could be a symptom of a particular medical condition or a side effect of certain medications. Sufficient saliva is needed in the mouth to wash away food debris and reduce plaque by neutralizing the acids that plaque produces.

  18. What is an Abscessed Tooth?

    An abscess of the tooth is an infection. An abscess can include pus and swelling of the soft gum tissues surrounding the tooth. An abscess can develop from tooth decay or tooth trauma, such as a broken tooth. If there is an opening in the enamel of a tooth, such as a cavity, bacteria can get in and infect the pulp (center) of the tooth and cause an abscess.

    Once an abscess happens, the infection could spread throughout the mouth and body. A root canal is usually the only option to save a tooth once it has become abscessed. If you suspect that you have an abscessed tooth, you should see your dentist right away.

  19. What is Tooth Decay?

    Decay is the destruction of tooth structure. Decay occurs when plague, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and / or starches of the foods that we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

    If decay reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.

    Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks and drinks that are high in sugar are also ways to prevent decay.

  20. What is a Cavity?

    A cavity is a hole in the tooth that is caused by decay. Decay occurs when plague, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and / or starches of the food we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is brushing twice a day, flossing daily and going to your regular dental check ups. Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks and drinks that are high in sugar are also ways to prevent decay.

  21. What causes decay?

    Decay occurs when plague, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and / or starches of the foods that we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Eating healthy foods and avoiding snacks and drinks that are high in sugar are also ways to prevent decay.

  22. What is a Veneer?

    A veneer is a thin shell made out of porcelain or composite material. They are custom made and cemented to the front side of the tooth. A veneer can be used to treat dental conditions such as a slightly crooked tooth, discolored teeth, chipped teeth or they can even be used to cover spaces in between the teeth.

    A veneer can be made by the dentist or in a dental laboratory, depending on the materials used and the preference of the dentist.

  23. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?

    According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should visit a pediatric dentist when their first tooth comes in or no later than their first birthday.

  24. What is Fluoride?

    Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. It occurs naturally in all water sources. Studies show that fluoride reduces cavities in people of all ages and is effective and safe when used correctly. The correct use of fluoride has been said to have dramatically reduced tooth decay over the past few decades.

  25. Are silver fillings safe?

    Silver (Amalgam) filling material contains about 50% mercury and 50% of various other metals. While there have been no conclusive studies relating the mercury in amalgam to any dangers, mercury by itself is very toxic.

    With the introduction of new filling materials, amalgam is not used as often as it once was. More than 70% of all fillings today are placed in the tooth by the dentist with resin or composite materials. Amalgam has been deemed safe by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the FDA and the US Public Health Service. Important Update - June 2008 The FDA Admits Silver Dental Fillings May Not Be Safe.

    In light of this recent information, the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) still does not recommend having amalgam fillings removed and The American Dental Association continues to stand their ground that amalgam is a safe and durable filling material.

  26. What is the difference between a silver and white filling?

    The main difference between silver and white dental fillings is the material that they consist of. Silver (amalgam) fillings, are made up of 50% mercury and 50% of other various metals. White (composite) fillings are made up of acrylic and various glass particles. Other differences in silver and white fillings are cost, strength and the way they look.

  27. What is Calculus?

    Calculus, also known as tartar, is the hardened residue that forms on your teeth when plaque is not removed. Plaque can be removed by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. If tartar is allowed to remain on the teeth and below the gumline, it can lead to chronic infection and inflammation. The only way to remove tartar is to have your teeth professionally cleaned at your dental office.

  28. What is a Dental Implant?

    A dental implant is a metal device designed to replace missing teeth. The device is usually made out of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Unlike a dental bridge, an implant is permanent.

    A dental implant is designed to act as the tooth root and can anchor an artificial tooth or teeth such as a crown, bridge or denture.

  29. What is Pregnancy Gingivitis?

    When I was pregnant, I woke up one morning with red, puffy and very tender gums. I had pregnancy gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis is a condition caused by increased hormone levels that can cause swollen, red and tender gums. It is often accompanied with bleeding when you brush your teeth.

    According to the American Academy of Periodontology, about 50% of women experience pregnancy gingivitis. This condition is most common between the second to eighth month of pregnancy. If you experience the symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis, be sure to visit your dentist to see if you need more frequent dental cleanings or other treatment.

    The best way to prevent pregnancy gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene and to visit your dentist and dental hygienist for regular check ups and cleanings. While good oral hygiene is important to everyone, it is even more so with pregnant women.

    Be sure to floss everyday, brush your teeth at least twice a day and use an antimicrobial mouth rinse such as Listerine or Crest Pro-Health Rinse.

  30. What is a Biopsy?

    A biopsy is the process of removing a small piece of tissue for a pathologist to determine, under microscopic examination, if it is cancerous. A soft tissue biopsy is the most common type of biopsy used in detecting oral cancer.

  31. What is a Canker Sore?

    Many people often wonder exactly what are canker sores?

    Canker sores, also known as Aphthous Ulcers, are small lesions that occur inside the mouth, and are not contagious.

    Symptoms

    One to two days before appearing, a burning or tingling sensation may be present in the area of the mouth where the lesion is developing. Rarely, a fever might present itself when developing a canker sore.

    Canker sores appear inside the mouth as round or oval sores typically with a red border and yellow or white center. Canker sores typically develop:

    • On the top surface of the tongue and the tip of the tongue
    • Underneath the tongue, on the floor of the mouth
    • The inside of the cheek and lip
    • On the gum tissue


    Canker sores do not develop on the external surfaces of the lips and are not to be confused with coldsores. 

    Types of Canker Sores

    Canker sores may be classified as:

    1. Minor - Although painful, minor canker sores are often fully healed within two weeks after onset. The size of a minor canker sore varies, but typically stays under 1/3 inch to 1/2 inch.
    2. Major - Canker sores that appear larger that 1/3 inch to 1/2 inch, last longer than two weeks, and appear to have irregular margins -- oddly shaped -- may be classified as major. Rarely, this type of canker sore may leave behind a scar. Common in immuno-suppressed patients.
    3. Herpetiform Canker Sores - A cluster of several tiny lesions that appear to form one larger sore. This type of canker sore may last from one week to one month.


    Canker sores may become painful, especially when eating, drinking, and talking.

    The cause of canker sore development varies from person to person, with an exact cause unknown.

    Treatments for canker sores also vary depending on the suspected cause.
It is recommended that you seek treatment from your dentist if you have recurrent canker sores and/or canker sores that do not heal after 14 days.

  32. What causes Canker Sores? 

    We know what canker sores are, but the exact cause is still unknown. Women statistically suffer from canker sores more often than men. Canker sores are typically seen in people between the ages of 10 and 40, although they have been known to show up at any age.

    There is reason to believe that certain types of bacteria and/or viruses are responsible for the painful mouth sores. Canker sores are not contagious and are not related to the herpes simplex virus, also known as cold sores.

    Canker sores are caused by:

    • Injuries to the mouth, as seen frequently by contact sports players. Accidentally biting the inside of the cheek or lip may also result in a canker sore
    • Temperature hot food or drink may cause a canker sore in the area of the mouth that was essentially burnt by the offending substance
    • Spicy and/or acidic foods often produce a canker sore as a response to the irritation these spices and acids create in the mouth
    • The use of chewing (smokeless) tobacco will often cause a canker sore to develop in the area of the mouth where the tobacco is held, due to the irritating chemicals found in the addictive product
    • Poor-fitting, complete or partial dentures may cause canker sores in the area of the mouth where the denture may rubbing on the tissue. The development of a canker sore is often one of the first signs that indicate the need for a denture reline or adjustment by your dentist or denturist
    • Orthodontic brackets, bands, and various other orthodontic attachments will often cause canker sores to develop in area of the mouth where there is constant friction on the oral tissues. This is common when orthodontic treatment first begins and may occur after each subsequent adjustments, throughout each stage of treatment
    • Allergies to metals such as nickel may become evident in the mouth of a person wearing orthodontic devices necessary to move the teeth. Canker sores may begin to appear adjacent to the metal attachments. This is often referred to as contact dermatitis.
    • Broken teeth are often sharp and may rub on the oral tissues to produce painful canker sores. Broken restorations may also cause a similar effect on the oral tissues
    • Emotional stress has been identified as a possible trigger that may cause the development of canker sores
    • Bacteria responsible for peptic ulcers known as Helicobacter pylori, has been linked to canker sore occurrence
    • Vitamin deficiencies, specifically vitamin B12, foliate (folic acid), and iron, may trigger canker sore development
    • Hormonal changes, notably during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, have been linked to canker sores
    • Canker sores often run in families. Genetics my be a factor for many canker sore sufferers
    • Allergic reactions and sensitivities to certain foods may cause a canker sore to develop. Allergic reaction to certain types of bacteria found in the mouth may also result in this type of mouth ulcer
    • Celiac disease sufferers may experience canker sores. Gluten may be associated with the development of canker sores in those with celiac disease
    • Information associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often will list canker sores as a complication associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
    • Mouth sores are a common occurrence observed in immuno-suppressed patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS
    • Behcet's Disease, a rare autoimmune disease that damages the body's blood vessels notes mouth sores, more specifically canker sores, as a one of the four most common symptoms of the disease
    • Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in toothpaste and had been associated with the development of canker sores


    Treatment is generally not necessary for most canker sores as they tend to heal quickly on their own. If canker sores persist for longer than 2 weeks, see the dentist. The dentist will have some topical medication to apply or use of a laser for treatment.
    See your dentist immediately if canker sores:

    • Become unusually larger than normal
    • Are extremely painful, interfering with eating, drinking, and talking
    • Begin to appear more frequently than normal
    • Do not heal after 14 days
    • Are accompanied by a high fever
    • Appear to become infected

  33. Canker Sores - When should you see a dentist?

    Canker sores are very common and they are not contagious. These irritating little sores will normally go away on their own in about one to two weeks.

    Even though treatment is usually not necessary for a canker sore, you should see a dentist if one or more of the following occur: 

    • The canker sores persist more than two weeks 
    • The canker sore is unusually large (more than one centimeter in diameter)  
    • A persistent high fever accompanies the sores.  
    • The pain from the canker sore is unbearable  
    • You experience difficulty drinking with the sores


    A dentist can easily diagnose and recognize the type of sore in your mouth based on where its located and how it looks.

  34. Why is it so important to have good oral hygiene when you are pregnant?

    Pregnancy is a very exciting and busy time. There are so many changes going on in your body and your mouth is no exception. Good oral hygiene is extremely important during pregnancy because the increase of hormone levels during pregnancy can cause dental problems to be intensified.

    One of the most common dental problems associated with pregnancy is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis, which usually occurs during the first trimester. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis are usually bleeding, swollen, red and tender gums.

    Good oral health during pregnancy could also be important to your fetus. Some researchers have suggested that the serious stage of gum disease, periodontitis, could cause premature birth and low birth weight.

    The tips listed here can help you maintain good oral health throughout your pregnancy. 

    1. Visit your dentist for regular check ups and cleanings. This is the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene.
    2. Brush your teeth properly at least twice a day to remove plaque.
    3. Floss your teeth daily. Flossing will remove food debris from in between the teeth that a toothbrush can't reach.
    4. Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse. Antimicrobial mouth rinses can help prevent gingivitis.
    5. Brush or scrape your tongue daily to help remove bacteria.
    6. Eat nutritious meals and healthy snacks.

     

    Now that you know what to do to protect your oral health, sit back, relax and enjoy this beautiful time in your life. 

  35. What is TMJ?

    The temporomandibular joint, also known as TMJ, is the ball and socket joint that connects the lower jaw to the bone on each side of the head. The temporomandibular joint is stabilized by muscles that make it possible to open and close the mouth. The pain, discomfort or tenderness in or around these joints are referred to as TMJ disorders.

    According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders are more common in women and usually in the 28-40 year range than men and over 10 million people are affected by TMJ disorders.

  36. What are the signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders?

    The pain, discomfort or tenderness in or around the temporomandibular joints are referred to as TMJ disorders.

    Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders can include:

    • Tenderness or pain in the face
    • Pain in the jaw
    • Pain in or around the ear
    • Pain in the neck area
    • Ringing in the ears
    • Headaches, usually above ears or behind eyes
    • Clicking or Popping in the Joint

  37. What are Dental Insurance Coverage types?

    According to most dental insurance companies, dental procedures are broken down into three categories:

    1. Preventative

      Most insurance companies consider routine cleanings and examinations as preventative dental care, however, X-rays, sealants and fluoride can be deemed as preventative or basic, depending upon the specific insurance carrier.

    2. Basic or Restorative

      Basic or restorative dental treatment usually consists of fillings and simple extractions. Root canals can be considered basic or major. However, the majority of dental plans list root canals as major.

    3. Major

      Crowns, bridges, dentures, partials, surgical extractions and dental implants are dental procedures that most dental insurance companies consider as a major procedure.

      Since all dental insurance carriers are different, it is important to clarify which dental procedures fall under each specific category. This is important because some insurance plans don't cover major procedures and others have waiting periods for certain procedures.

  38. Dental Insurance - What is Usual, Customary and Reasonable?

    Almost all dental insurance companies use what is called a "usual, customary and reasonable" (UCR) fee guide. This means that they set their own price that they will allow for every dental procedure that they cover. This is not based on what a dentist actually charges, but what the dental insurance company wishes to cover. For example, your dentist may charge $100 for a dental cleaning, but your insurance company will only allow $75 because that is the UCR fee that they have set.

  39. Dental Insurance - What is a Yearly Maximum?

    The yearly maximum is the most money a dental insurance plan will pay out within one full year. A yearly maximum could run on a calendar year (January to December), or on a fiscal year, depending on the dental insurance company.

    The yearly maximum will automatically renew every year. If you have unused benefits, these will not roll over. Most dental insurance companies allow an average yearly maximum of $1,000.

  40. Do teeth whitening toothpastes really work?

    Teeth whitening toothpastes seem to be popping up everywhere and you've got to wonder if they really work.

    Whitening toothpastes, like all other toothpastes, contain mild abrasives to remove surface stains. Teeth whitening toothpastes may have additional polishing agents and special chemicals that are more effective against stains than regular toothpastes. While whitening toothpastes can make your teeth appear a little lighter, by getting rid of stains, they do not actually bleach your teeth.

  41. What is a Periodontist?

    A periodontist is a dental specialist that has not only completed 4 years of dental school, but has also completed an additional 2-3 years of specialty training in diagnosing, preventing and treating gum disease. Periodontists can also place dental implants as well as perform cosmetic periodontal treatments.

    A periodontal evaluation is sometimes the only way to detect gum disease. Your dentist can refer you to a periodontist, or you can make your own appointment for an evaluation.

  42. What is an Orthodontist?

    An orthodontist is a dental specialist that has not only completed college and 4 years of dental school, but has also completed an additional 2 to 3 years residency program accredited by the ADA of advanced education in orthodontics.

    After receiving the additional years of training and education, an orthodontist has learned the skills that are required to treat the misalignment of teeth and facial development with braces, headgear, retainers and other methods.

    Only a dentist that has completed the additional years of training and education after dental school is an orthodontist.

  43. What is an Oral Surgeon?

    Oral surgeons, also known as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are dental specialists who have not only completed 4 years of dental school, but have also completed at least four years of a surgical hospital residency. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained to treat and diagnose defects, injuries and diseases of the mouth, jaw, teeth, neck, gums and other soft tissues of the head.

    Wisdom teeth removals, facial pain, TMJ, dental implants and removal of tumors and cysts are problems commonly treated by oral surgeons. Oral surgeons are also able to offer reconstructive surgery where facial trauma has been involved or for other esthetic reasons.

    Oral Surgeons provide a very high quality of care and their advanced training in anesthesia allows them to provide an extreme level of patient comfort in the safety of their office. 

  44. What is an Endodontist?

    An endodontist is dental specialist that has completed 4 years of dental school along with an additional 2-3 or more years of specialty training in endodontics (root canals). In other words, an endodontist is a root canal specialist.

    With the lengthy education that an endodontist receives, they are able to perform all aspects of root canal therapy including routine as well as complex root canals, retreatments and endodontic surgery.

  45. What is a Pediatric Dentist?

    A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist that has not only completed 4 years of dental school, but has also completed an additional 2 to 3 years of specialty training to treat children only.

    Many general dentists treat children as well as adults, but a pediatric dentist only treats children.The goal of a pediatric dentist is to teach children the importance of oral hygiene, how to take care of their teeth and to help children feel comfortable about visiting the dentist.

    Many pediatric dentists do not allow parents to go back in the treatment rooms with the children. If this is a big issue for you, be sure to ask this question if you are looking for a pediatric dentist. 

  46. What is a Prosthodontist?

    A prosthodontist is a dental specialist who is skilled in the replacement of missing teeth and the restoration of natural teeth. A prosthodontist has graduated from dental school and usually will have three or more years of continuing education after that.

    This type of dental specialist is trained to deal with complicated and simple restorations of the whole mouth as well as treating facial deformities. Common procedures treated by a prosthodontist may include dentures, partial dentures, fixed bridges, crowns, implants, veneers and more.

  47. What is Bruxism?

    Bruxism is the clenching and / or grinding of your teeth, especially at night. Clenching refers to tightly clamping your top and bottom teeth together The force of clenching causes stressful pressure on the muscles, tissues and jaw. Jaw disorders, jaw pain, soreness, headaches, earaches, damaged teeth and other problems can result from bruxism. If clenching causes jaw pain, it can disrupt sleeping and eating, lead to other dental problems or create TMJ problems. Nightly grinding can also disturb sleeping partners. Your dentist can make a clear night guard for you to sleep in to alleviate the clenching or grinding.