|
| Easy Access to Fundamental Issues
|
|
| We want to provide convenient, clear answers to all of your questions, so we've compiled this list of frequently asked questions and answers about our practice, philosophy, and procedures. If there's anything we've left out, feel free to contact us by phone or email.
|
 |
| How does Dr. Goodman keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials?
|
|
| Dr. Goodman subscribes to the latest industry journals to keep tabs on research and development in the dental industry, and takes time on a regular basis for continuing education and hands-on programs. Not only does he share this information with our entire staff, but each team member keeps up with their own areas of expertise through continuing education as well.
|
|
| How can I have whiter teeth?
|
|
| We are pleased to offer a simple, effective at-home supervised program. This ADA accepted system offers several concentrations, allowing us to tailor it to each individual's whitening needs. Further, its adhesive-type gel can provide results in just days, rather than in weeks as experienced with other systems. So if you're interested in finding out what whitening could do for you, we'll first evaluate your potential for based on the current color of your teeth, and the causes of any discoloration. Next, we'll fabricate your own custom whitening trays, provide you with complete instructions on effective gel application and session lengths, and send you home to get started. Most patients can expect to end up with teeth approximately 2 shades brighter on the dental shade chart.
|
|
| Crowns, Veneers, Onlays, Inlays and Partials…how can I learn more about these procedures?
|
|
| With today's technology, materials, and advanced techniques, we have many options for restoring weak, broken, chipped, discolored, and/or missing teeth…bringing your smile back to it's original shape and function. For example, we can apply an all-porcelain crown, somewhat like a 'cap', to cover the entire outside of the problem tooth. Crowns are also helpful to cover large areas of decay after they've been filled. Or, for smaller areas of decay, we can apply all-porcelain onlays or inlays… similar to crowns, but retaining more natural tooth structure. For unattractive front teeth, we can create pretty, natural shapes and shades by applying paper-thin porcelain veneers to the fronts. For patients who are missing a number of front/side teeth, we can create a removable partial denture, designed for either the upper or lower jaw, made of all acrylic or all metal. They're attached to existing teeth by means of precision acrylic clasps, and must be removed for cleaning after eating, as well as for sleeping. For more information on any of these procedures, please feel free to talk with Dr. Goodman during your visit.
|
|
|
|
|
| Do you accept referrals?
|
|
| We’re happy to accept referrals from other dental offices as well as from recommendations by our patients to their family and friends. We request that a patient evaluation form be completed prior to the first visit; we also appreciate all recent records and x-rays to be forwarded to our office.
|
|
| Do you accept my insurance plan?
|
|
| Our office accepts nearly all of the major insurance plans. Also, we’re well-versed in the latest coverage trends, and are more than happy to discuss the particulars of your plan with you prior to any treatments you may undergo.
|
|
| What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
|
|
| In case of a true dental emergency, please contact our office voice mail and let us know the nature of your condition. We’ll return your call right away, give you helpful information over the phone, then determine if you need to be seen immediately. One of our staff is always available to help with such situations
|
|
| Is there a way I can ask the Doctor questions directly?
|
|
| We encourage our patients to have open, direct communication with Dr. Goodman. Therefore, he’s available daily to answer your questions either via e-mail or voice mail. Depending on office traffic and the complexity of your questions, he strives to respond within 1-2 business days.
|
|
| What is halitosis?
|
|
| More than 90 million people suffer from chronic halitosis or bad breath. In most cases it originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by bacteria from the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth, and poor oral hygiene. The decay and debris produce a sulfur compound that causes the unpleasant odor.
|
|
| Does bad breath come from other sources than the mouth?
|
|
| Bad breath also may occur in people who have a medical infection, gum disease, diabetes, kidney failure, or a liver malfunction. Xerostomia (dry mouth) and tobacco also contribute to this problem. Cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy may experience dry mouth. Even stress, dieting, snoring, age and hormonal changes can have an effect on your breath.
|
|
| How do I control bad breath?
|
|
| It is important to practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. To alleviate the odor, clean your tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper, a plastic tool that scrapes away bacteria that builds on the tongue. Chewing sugar-free gum also may help control the odor. If you have dentures or a removable appliance, such as a retainer or mouthguard, clean the appliance thoroughly before placing it back in your mouth. Before you use mouth rinses, deodorizing sprays or tablets, talk with Dr. Goodman because these products only mask the odor temporarily, and some products work better than others.
|
|
|
|
| What should I be concerned about?
|
|
| Researchers are finding possible links between periodontal infections and other diseases throughout the body. Current studies suggest that there may be a link between periodontal (gum) disease, heart disease and other health conditions. In fact, research suggests that gum disease may be a more serious risk factor for heart disease than hypertension, smoking, cholesterol, gender and age. New studies suggest that people who have gum disease seem to be at a higher risk for heart attacks, although no one is certain how this relationship works. Your oral health affects your overall health, but the studies that will find exactly why these problems are linked are still underway.
|
|
| How can gum disease affect my overall health?
|
| The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and irritate your gums might travel to your arteries. Researchers are unsure what causes the bacteria to become mobile, but it has been suggested that bacteria can be dislodged and enter the bloodstream during tasks as simple as brushing, flossing or even chewing.
|
|
| Research shows that risk varies according to the level of gum infection. The worse the infection, the more likely the bacteria are to become blood-borne. Infected gums bleed, making it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If bacteria become dislodged, the bacteria enter through cuts or sores in your mouth and travel to other parts of the body through your bloodstream. Once bacteria reaches the arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they irritate gum tissue. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate in the arteries, which can cause hardening and block blood-flow. Compromised blood-flow to your heart can cause a heart attack. Also, arterial plaque can come loose and travel to other parts of the body. If blockage occurs in the brain, it can cause a stroke. Your dentist may use a special rinse immediately after dental procedures to neutralize these bacteria, but your best protection is to maintain a healthy mouth.
|
|
| What should I do?
|
|
| Keep your mouth healthy! See your dentist at least twice a year for periodic maintenance. Gum disease is a serious gum infection that should always be taken seriously. Although gum disease can often show few or no symptoms at all, watch for gums that are red and irritated, or gums that bleed easily. There are many new treatments available to control and help reverse gum disease.
|
|
| Sources: The American Heart Association, JADA (Journal of the American Dental Association) American Dental Hygienists' Association, CDA Journal v. 28, No. 3, March 2000 National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research.
|
