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Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Keller, TX

Get the Answers You Need

The more you know about dental care, the easier it is to take care of your teeth, and the more likely you are to seek treatment when you need it most. That’s why Dr. Walia and the rest of our Ridgepoint Dental staff make patient education a priority. You can always call us with any questions that you have, but to help you get started, we have listed the answers to some of the inquiries that we have heard the most often.

What happens if I don’t have an appointment twice a year?

Some patients think they can get away with waiting to see the dentist until there’s a problem with their teeth. However, biannual checkups and cleanings are essential for locating tooth decay in its earliest forms and removing plaque and tartar from areas you’ve missed while cleaning on your own. These regular visits can greatly decrease the risk of needing more complex, costly care later down the line.

What are my options when teeth are missing?

One option when you’ve lost a permanent tooth is to leave the space empty. Of course, this is generally a mistake since it can lead to further dental damage and oral health issues. Instead, you should talk to Dr. Walia about tooth replacement options. Dental implants are often an excellent choice since they replace the entire tooth structure from the root up and they can last for many decades with minimal maintenance.

Can I do something about unsightly stains or cracks on my teeth?

It’s no surprise that your teeth will tend to look discolored and worn as time goes on, but luckily there are a number of steps you can take to improve the appearance of your teeth. Veneers are often an excellent option for making extensive corrections to your smile since they can cover several flaws at once. Depending on the source of the discoloration, you may want to ask about teeth whitening, which can be performed in-office or via a special kit that you take home with you.

Are braces the only way to straighten crooked teeth?

There are some orthodontic issues that are so severe that metal braces are the only viable option for correction. However, adults with only mild to moderate orthodontic problems can consider Invisalign clear aligners to adjust their teeth and bites without compromising their appearance.

I’m nervous about visiting the dentist; what should I do?

There’s nothing wrong with being afraid of the dentist; in fact, it’s a very common phobia. As such, dentists today are well-versed in helping their patients feel comfortable during all kinds of treatments. Nitrous oxide is usually suitable when you’re only mildly anxious. On the other hand, oral conscious sedation is recommended for more extensive procedures or more severe anxieties.

Is a toothache an emergency?

If a toothache is particularly extreme or lasts for more than a couple of days, it should be considered an emergency. You can try flossing and rinsing with salt water to try cleaning between the teeth (since the pain might be associated with a piece of food that got trapped), but otherwise, you should be examined as soon as possible in case you’re suffering from an infection or a severe crack.

What does it mean if my teeth are sensitive?

Sensitive teeth tend to hurt whenever they’re exposed to hot or cold foods and beverages; they might also feel uncomfortable if they’re exposed to cold air. There are various reasons why a tooth might be sensitive. The enamel protecting it might have worn down, or your gums might have receded and exposed the roots. In either of these cases, you’ll want to see us sooner rather than later so that we can narrow down the root cause.

Is my dental insurance accepted at Ridgepoint Dental?

You can check with our staff to see if your insurance is accepted at our dental office. In addition to that, we can help you figure out how much of your visit will be covered by the policy and how much you can expect to pay out of pocket. We’re also happy to review your benefits with you, and after your appointment, we will file a claim on your behalf.