|
The following information will help answer some of
the frequently asked questions we hear from our patients. However, if
you are curious about something not addressed here, just contact
us and we will be happy to answer your question and provide
you with the needed information.
Q1: I have always had what I considered good teeth since I have never had any pain with them. I finally went to the dentist for the first time a few weeks ago and he told me I have gum disease and some cavities. Why was there no warning?
A: Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. For maximum benefit, a good home care regimen must be supplemented with a professional examination at least every six months. Depending on the status of your oral health, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. Being pain free usually gives us a false sense of security about the status of our teeth. However, the truth is, when teeth or gums starts hurting, it usually signals very severe oral health issues. That is why it is very important to have regular visits to the dentist in order to catch and treat problems before they become serious. There are some warning signs you may notice that might indicate your gums need extra care. They include:
- Tenderness or sensitivity, especially when brushing or flossing
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing
Healthy gums start at home, so pay attention to the signs that your gums may need extra care.
back to top
Q2: If I brush my teeth 3 times a day and floss daily. Will that guarantee healthy teeth for as long as I do that?
A: Most people think that if they take good care of their teeth, they'll keep them for a lifetime. That's only partially true -- good gum care is just as important. The fact is, the leading cause of tooth loss isn't cavities, its gum disease. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease, and if left untreated, it can lead to the more serious condition periodontitis. The result of periodontitis can be tooth loss. To help you keep that smile -- not to mention the ability to bite and chew -- it's essential to keep your gums healthy.
back to top
Q3 My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
A: Yes, bleeding gums should be addressed. This is a definite indicator of periodontal (gum disease) that can get out of control quickly. The good news is that it is treatable. The sooner you visit us to get started on your treatment plan for improving your oral health, the better. Gum disease is not to be taken lightly as many researchers link it to heart disease, underweight babies and more alarming illnesses.
back to top
Q4: At what age should my children first see the dentist?
A: Preventive care is so important - thank you for considering your child's dental health early. We enjoy meeting young patients by their third birthday. This allows us to intercept any dental growth abnormalities and place sealants that prevent cavities, if necessary.
back to top
Q5: My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?
A: Find the tooth and rinse
it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap -- use
just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it
there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can't put the tooth back
in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva,
or water. Get to your dental office immediately. The faster you act,
the better your chances of saving the tooth
Then contact us immediately to see Dr.Huang.
Tell us what happened and our office staff will
help you determine the safest and most appropriate
plan.
back to top
Q6: My teeth seems more visibly yellow than
other people. I have been told my coffee drinking contributes to a large
part of the yellowing, is that true? I have heard a lot about teeth whitening,
can you tell me how that works?
A: Just as people have different skin and hair color,
people also have different tooth color. Some teeth are more yellow, and
some teeth yellow with aging. Natural tooth color can be discolored by
a number of causes. The surface of the tooth can be stained by tobacco,
certain foods and beverages such as coffee, tea and berries, and by deposits
of calculus or tartar. Discoloration of the tooth internally can result
from aging, injury, excessive fluoride, certain illnesses and taking
the antibiotic tetracycline during early childhood. Although teeth whitening
successfully lightens most discolorations, certain types (such as those
caused by tetracycline) are more difficult to remove. There are two types
of teeth whitening procedures: (1) Teeth whitening is done safely and completely
in the dental office (known as chairside
bleaching) or (2) a system may be dispensed by the dentist for the
patient to use at home (nightguard teeth whitening).
back to top
Q7: How can I safely whiten my teeth?
A: We offer Zoom teeth whitening that is fast, safe and effective. Take-home teeth whitening kit is also available. Contact us for an appointment to discuss what teeth whitening options might be best for you.
back to top
Q8: I brush every day, but my breath just isn't fresh. Is there anything I can do?
A: Our first suggestion would be for you to contact us so we can further talk with you about your specific instance. Many factors, from diet to gum disease to tooth decay, can play a part in bad breath. We understand that few things are as embarrassing and frustrating as perpetual bad breath so, as needed, we introduce patients to the BreathRx solution. We look forward to exploring the best options for your case soon.
back to top
Q9: How often do I need to visit the dentist?
A: All adult patients are advised to return every six months for dental cleanings and then x-rays are updated yearly. This is in an effort to identify warning signs of possible problems and ultimately create the best prognosis for any treatment procedures. Preventive care is so important for your long-term health to be accomplished with minimized problems and expenses. So, we have business systems in place to help ensure you clearly understand what visit interval is best for you. For example, our state-of-the-art computer systems are able to track and monitor each of our patients for dental needs and easy reminders. We also carefully inform you about a three-step home care regimen which includes daily brushing, flossing and oral rinsing to help you achieve a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
back to top
Q10: How does Dr. Huang keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?
A: He is a current member of the American Dental
Association, California Dental Association, Santa Clara County Dental
Society and Academy of General Dentistry. Over the past ten years and
continually, Dr. Huang pursues expert training in all aspects of cosmetic
and esthetic dentistry. He has spent countless hours in seminars, study
clubs and other continuing education courses to stay aware of the latest
advancements for patient benefit.
back to top
Q11: What payment options do you provide?
A: We understand there are multiple factors in your life affecting your feelings about finances. So, our fees are realistically structured to reflect the premium quality of care, actual time, materials and laboratory work required for treatments. We offer a variety of payment options, which include cash, checks and credit cards (e.g. Visa, Master Card, and American Express.) Three different flexible payment plans are also available through Capital One Dental Fee Plan, Care Credit and Wells Fargo Health Advantage. These patient payment plans allow you to finance 100% of you dental care with no initial payment, no pre-payment penalties, low monthly payments, and easy application process. Interest free options are also available. So, you can begin your treatment today and conveniently pay with low, monthly payments
We also accept most major insurance plans and will assist you in obtaining the maximum benefits offered by your plan. Our patients are informed of estimated insurance benefits prior to starting any treatment. We are pleased to process your insurance claim for you and will also estimate the portion that is not covered by insurance. Our fee estimates are based on the information you provide regarding the benefits of the insurance plan you or your company have chosen.
back to top
Q12: What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
A: You have every right to expect complete safety
in every procedure we perform. In this office we use a variety of barrier
techniques for your individual protection. These techniques include latex
gloves, masks, protective eye shields and coverings, protective clothing,
and specialized intra-oral devices. Cups, gloves and hand towels are
used only once before they are thrown away. Furthermore, we employ a
combination of methods to ensure the surgery environment achieves the
highest level of clinical sterility. After every patient, all instruments
are sterilized with the latest vacuum and ultrasonic sterilizers, and
other surgical items are supplied ready-sterilized and disposed of after
use. Our staff regularly attends meetings on safety standards and we
implement all of the latest OSHA standards and recommendations of the
American Dental Association. Your safety is of utmost importance, so
rest assured that we're taking that into account every step of the
way.
back to top
Q13: You claim to treat patients as "prestigious guests." What's so special about your service?
A: Our service is special because every action we
take and every decision we make first takes your comfort into consideration.
For just a few quick examples, we implement an online New
Patient Form for
express new patient check-in. We also offer Saturday appointments and
are committed to a short waiting time. We do not want a patient to wait
any longer than ten minutes after check-in to be seated. We also shorten
treatment time by using digital x-rays, eliminating film-development
time and reducing radiation. All patients' requests or questions are
addressed within 24 hours. Warm towels are available after treatment.
TV/DVD/Music
entertainment units are available in each treatment room while patients
in the reception area enjoy snacks, beverages, fresh flowers and aroma
candles. Digital patient charting in each treatment room enhances front
and back office communication efficiency and allows for your express
checkout. We respect your time and comfort and, through our quality services,
you will experience superior care at Alpine Dental Care. Take advantage
of this opportunity and see for yourself. We welcome the opportunity
to serve you.
back to top
|
