FAQs
- How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
- When do you like children to have a first dental visit?
- I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
- What is neuromuscular dentistry?
- How can I improve my smile?
- How can I make my smile brighter?
- Are there differences between over-the-counter teeth whiteners and professional teeth whiteners?
How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential problems. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
When do you like children to have a first dental visit?
We want to see your child when they have teeth! Most children respond well to a dental visit around age three, though the ADA recommends children have a first visit at one year of age. Bring your child with you to your appointment so that he or she can become acclimated to the dentist's office. If you notice any development problems with your child's mouth or teeth, call us to schedule a visit immediately. Otherwise, we'd like to begin teaching your children how to care for their teeth and gums when they reach three or four years of age. By age four or five, they can begin hygiene treatments and regular checkups.
I have chronic headaches. Can you help?
Chronic headaches may be a symptom of a misaligned bite, bruxism (grinding), or TMJ disorder. Dr. Amy Crary will carefully examine your occlusion (bite), jaw, head, and neck to determine the underlying causes of your pain. Oftentimes, we can correct the problem with a custom nightguard. Call our office if you have more questions about headache relief with non-surgical therapies.
What is neuromuscular dentistry?
Neuromuscular dentistry addresses the complex relationship between the joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves involved in occlusion (bite) and chewing. With neuromuscular dentistry techniques, Dr. Amy Crary focuses on correcting the misalignment of the jaw and TMJ disorder to restore proper function.
How can I improve my smile?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-porcelain restorations, and/or replacement teeth. Orthodontics may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile.
How can I make my smile brighter?
We offer custom-made take-home trays with professional whitening gel for safe and effective teeth whitening in the comfort of your own home. Home whitening yields excellent results – up to eight shades or better! Two weeks of use produces optimal results, but if your teeth reach the desired shade before then, simply discontinue treatment.
Are there differences between over-the-counter teeth whiteners and professional teeth whiteners?
Over-the-counter whiteners are not as efficient as professional-grade treatments. The whitening kits you buy at the drugstore are not customized to fit the shape of your teeth, making them messy and ineffective. In addition, they typically only whiten two to three shades. With professional whitening you have more options. We offer home teeth whitening kits that are custom designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. Each night for a week or two you’ll need to apply our professional-grade whitening gel to the trays, and then wear them at night. Within just a few days, you’ll notice a difference, and by the time treatment is complete, you’ll smile with confidence.
