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

FAQ'S

Financial Options:

We at E.P. True Dental are excited to offer many payment options to assist you with obtaining the dental treatment you need. Dr. Olberding does not want the fear of unknown costs to delay or prevent you from seeking the treatment you want. After your initial evaluation by Dr. Olberding, you will be given a written treatment plan with the estimated fees listed. In addition, we offer the following services:

Cash, Check, Mastercard, Visa and Discover are accepted for our patients who wish to arrange easy, budgeted monthly payments with their credit card company.
Apply for CareCredit online. (www.carecredit.com) Care Credit is a popular option that allows our patients to proceed with the dental treatment they want now, while paying an affordable (no interest) monthly payment. (restrictions apply). CareCredit is a personal line of credit for healt care treatments and procedures for your entire family.
Dental Benefit Plans (dental insurance)
We accept most private care dental benefit plans. As a courtesy, we will file current dental claims for reimbursement.

Cosmetic Dentistry

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

Bonding can correct mild discoloration and shape of teeth and is usually accomplished in one visit.
Porcelain veneers can correct more dramatic color imperfections and shape of teeth and may last longer. This process requires two visits.
Orthodontic aligners are the more permanent correction for straightening an uneven smile. This treatment does not change the shape or color of the teeth.

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

We can make a crown look just as natural as your original tooth. This is accomplished by proper preparation, attention to shape and contour of adjacent teeth, and very precise shade matching.

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?

Yes! There are more permanent and natural alternatives to partial dentures. Depending on your unique situation, it is possible a fixed bridge or implant would be a better option. These alternatives may be a worthwhile investment in your smile. Please ask for more information during your next visit.

Home Care & Maintenance

What is the recommended regimen for brushing and flossing?

Our hygienists 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 gums (periodontal tissue) don't bleed! Bleeding typically indicates irritation and infection, an early stage of periodontal disease. Please schedule an appointment with us. 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 a dental professional 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 my teeth?

The results of whitening are never certain until completed. However, yellow and brownish stains typically whiten better than grayish ones. Whitening does remove microscopic amounts of enamel, which can be regenerated in time. Manufacturer instructions should be followed carefully. There are several options available in our office to whiten teeth. Please ask an E.P. True Denal 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 twelve 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.