Dental FAQs
Below is a list of frequently asked dental questions, along with the answers. Please contact our office if you need further information or don’t see the answer to your question.
What is dentistry?
Dentistry involves treating and preventing disorders anddiseases of a patient’s teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Quality dental servicesare necessary for complete oral health and can significantly impact thepatient’s overall health.
What is a dentist?
A dentist is a specialist trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Our doctors have completed many years of medical schooling to practice dentistry. After schooling, a dentist can receive a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). Some doctors specialize in pediatric dentistry to work with children from infancy through teenage years.
There are other specializations that a dentist may go to school for, including:
- Oral and maxillofacial (includes pathology, radiology, and surgery)
- Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
- Endodontics (specialization in root canals)
- Periodontics (specialization in gum disease)
- Prosthodontics (specialization in dental implants)
Are regular dental cleanings necessary?
Scheduling a bi-annual cleaning at Zsambeky, Chaney, & Associates is highly recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene, remove plaque and tartar buildup, and catch problems before they become costly and painful. We may suggest more frequent visits based on your oral health needs.
Do I need to see a dentist even if my teeth feel fine?
Yes, our doctors highly recommend scheduling regular cleanings and checkups at least twice a year. Not all dental problems have obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. Professional exams can help us catch issues early, saving you money and hassle.
What’s a dental cleaning like at Zsambeky, Chaney, & Associates?
Our amazing hygienists will perform regular cleanings to remove tartar, debris, and plaque from your mouth. This appointment will include a complete oral examination, oral cancer exam, professional x-rays to catch cavities, and expert brushing and flossing using special tools.
Our doctors and hygienists will coordinate and recommend a treatment plan for any problems discovered during your oral exam. We’ll also recommend any cosmetic treatments to improve your smile.
At what age should I bring my child to see the dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), dental checkups for children should begin as early as six months. On average, this is when a child’s primary teeth begin to erupt. Our doctors can examine the health of your child’s first few teeth to ensure they’re healthy and make recommendations if necessary.
When should I change my toothbrush?
Our doctors recommend getting a new toothbrush at least every three months. You may not have to change the head of the brush often if you’re using an electronic toothbrush, but make sure to check the recommendation of the type you have. Gum disease patients should change their brush more frequently.
After brushing, it’s imperative to wash and rinse your brush with hot water and store it upright to air-dry between uses. Doing this will kill germs and bacteria, keeping your toothbrush clean.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Plaque and bacteria naturally form in a patient’s mouth. Neglecting proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings will cause them to build up, eventually leading to periodontal (gum) disease. Risk factors for gum disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, certain medications, and genetics.
Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease are:
- Abscessed teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth and or loss of teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Receding gumline
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us as soon as possible.
What is the difference between periodontitis and gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, presenting itself as red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Plaque and bacteria buildup from poor oral hygiene cause gingivitis, but professional dental cleanings and improved habits can treat it.
Periodontitis is the most advanced form of gum disease. Depending on the stage of the disease, it can be treated surgically (pocket reduction or guided tissue regeneration) or non-surgically (antibiotics or deep cleaning). When left untreated, periodontitis can destroy the jawbone and lead to tooth loss.
Do you accept dental insurance?
We accept most insurance and PPO plans but encourage you to check with us before scheduling an appointment. Make sure to have your information ready and plan to pay your co-pay or deductible at the time of service.
Please visit our insurance page or call our office at (704) 782-2214 for more information.
What payment methods do you accept?
For your convenience, we accept cash, check, cashier’s checks, Visa, Master Card, Amex, and Discover. If none of these payment methods suit your needs, we also offer payment plans through our office and third-party financing through *CareCredit®. Our office provides discounts for those able to pay in full at the time of service.
Please visit our insurance page or call our office at (704) 782-2214 for more information.
*Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. Visit www.carecredit.com for details.
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