Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - E.P. True Dental - West Des Moines Family Dentist Office

Cosmetic Dentistry

I have a space between my two front teeth. How can this be corrected?

As individual circumstances make every case unique, there are several ways in which this could be corrected.

Bonding can correct mild discoloration and shape of teeth and is usually accomplished in one visit. This type of restoration is totally reversible.
Porcelain veneers can correct more dramatic color imperfections and shape of teeth, and may last longer. This process requires two visits. This type of restoration is irreversible.
Orthodontics is the most permanent correction for straightening an uneven smile. However, this treatment does not change the color or shape of any tooth.

Again, every situation is unique. Please consult with a dental professional as to which treatment is best for you.

If I require restorations, which type is best?

In the past, silver and gold were all that were used for restorations on back teeth, modern science has improved materials and procedures allowing dental professionals to frequently place bonded (tooth colored) restorations throughout your mouth. The advantage is more than just aesthetic; we believe these bonded restorations to be strong and less damaging to your natural tooth structure over time.

I have a crown in front that doesn't match my other teeth—it looks fake. What can be done?

A skilled aesthetic dentist can make a crown look just as natural as the tooth before it. This is accomplished by proper preparation, attention to shape and contour of adjacent teeth, and very precise shade matching.

Why should I spend money on a root canal treatment? I just want to have it extracted.

Removing a tooth is not just the end of this inconvenience, but rather, the beginning of multiple situations that will need attention in the future. The extraction of a tooth will affect your physical appearance, and typically leads to more lost teeth. Investing in the tooth now seems expensive, however, it will be more cost effective and time efficient in the long run.

I have a missing tooth and wear a removable partial. I constantly worry about it being noticeable or breaking. Is there something better to replace this tooth?

There are more permanent and natural alternatives to partial dentures. Depending on your unique situation, it is possible that a fixed bridge or even an implant would be great options. Though, more expensive than some partial dentures, these alternatives are worthwhile investments in your smile.

Home Care & Maintenance

What is the recommended regimen for brushing and flossing?

Your hygienist will give you the best regimen for you as an individual. Here are some typical guidelines for a healthy mouth:

Brush teeth two times daily, morning and night.
Floss teeth at least once daily, most effective at night.

That said, this is a great time to explain why these guidelines apply. Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque produces byproducts that irritate periodontal tissue and cause tooth decay. it takes approximately 24 hours for plaque to harden and turn into tartar, which you will be unable to remove by brushing and flossing. A daily regimen of proper home care will help you keep your teeth healthy.

My gums bleed when I brush or floss. Is this normal?

Healthy periodontal tissue does not bleed. Bleeding typically indicates irritation and infection, an early stage of periodontal disease. Please schedule an appointment with a dental professional. This condition, left untreated, may lead to tooth loss.

How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

Every individual has unique needs based on body makeup and home care habits. Healthy individuals typically visit dental professionals twice a year, while some require more frequent maintenance appointments.

Whitening

My teeth are not as white as I would like, will bleaching work and is it bad for them?

The results of whitening are never certain until completed, however, yellow and brownish stains typically whiten better than grayish colored stains. Whitening does remove microscopic amounts of enamel, which can be regenerated in time. Manufacturer instructions should be followed carefully. There are several options available to whiten teeth, please consult a professional for your best option.

I have bonding on some front teeth, they are starting to look brown and chipped. What can be done to whiten these teeth?

Unfortunately, composite (bonding) restorations will not whiten from bleaching. Simply polishing the restorations will remove some surface stains. It may be time to replace the bonding, or consider porcelain veneers as a longer lasting restoration. If you intend on whitening the rest of your smile, you should complete this before replacing your bonding.

Does bleaching last forever, or will I need to bleach again?

Typically, an initial whitening treatment takes a couple of weeks. After a minimum of six months, a touch-up whitening may be necessary. Touch-up whitening will vary depending on your daily habits, but usually takes just a couple of days. Prevent new stains by limiting coffee, tea, soda, red wine and tobacco. It is also helpful to rinse with water or brush after consuming these beverages.