Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Kent, WA
Ask Your Kent Dentist
If you have questions, the best step to take is to contact our dental office. We will always be able to provide you with more precise solutions over the phone or in person. However, we also want to make the information you need as easy to access as possible. That’s why we’ve included the answers to some of the most frequently asked dental questions from our Kent, WA dentistry patients. Read on to satisfy your curiosity!
How often should I get a dental checkup and teeth cleaning?
The American Dental Association and dentists worldwide recommend biannual checkups and cleanings. These appointments allow us to detect and treat any dental issues while they’re still small, preventing you from more extensive and expensive dentistry in the future. Additionally, these routine checkups include oral cancer screenings, making it even more important than you may have thought to visit our dental office twice a year!
Is it a problem if my gums are bleeding?
Have you noticed your gums bleeding when brushing or flossing? Bloody, swollen, puffy, or sensitive gums are common signs of the beginning of gum disease. Contact our dental office if you have bloody gums so we can provide you with a deep cleaning and prevent infection. If you don’t address your bleeding gums and let the disease persist, you may suffer from permanent tissue damage, jawbone deterioration, and even tooth loss.
I’m afraid of the dentist. Can you help?
If you get fearful or anxious when it comes to dental visits, you’re not alone. This is a common problem, which is why we offer sedation dentistry as an amazing solution. We provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild fear, and we have oral conscious sedation for more moderate to severe anxiety. Based on your own comfort level, we can recommend the option that works best.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Our teeth whitening is incredibly effective and completely safe thanks to our advanced technology and Dr. Dhaliwal’s experience. However, we will examine each of our patients’ smiles before recommending teeth whitening as an option. Keep in mind that over-the-counter products do not come with the supervision of a professional, which is why they can often cause irritation and discomfort.
How long will it take to fix my tooth?
If you break, chip, or crack your tooth, call our dental office immediately for treatment. The time it takes to fix your tooth will all depend on the damage. Sometimes, dental bonding can be performed. This treatment uses the same material as tooth-colored fillings to restore tiny chips, cracks, and gaps. However, if your damage is so advanced that it requires a dental crown, it will usually take two separate appointments before you’ll get a permanent restoration.
Will you accept my dental insurance?
If you have a PPO dental insurance plan, we’ll likely accept it! We’re a very dental insurance-friendly dental office and do everything in our power to help our patients maximize their benefits. To learn whether we accept your individual plan, call our dental office today!