FAQ

Even if your teeth feel fine, it doesn’t mean they are healthy. We consume large amounts of sugar and junk food every day, which allows plaque buildup to eat away at healthy gums and teeth. Poor dental hygiene, such as a lack of regular flossing and brushing, can lead to tooth deterioration. By the time you notice tooth pain or other symptoms, you could be dealing with more complex issues. Regular dental visits will keep your teeth and gums healthy, and your dentist can identify symptoms of potentially larger problems that you might otherwise miss. That means greater peace of mind for you — and a healthier mouth.

Yes! Our Grosse Pointe dental office currently offers a special for new patients without insurance. Adult new patients can receive a cleaning, X-rays, and an exam for $150, and child new patients can enjoy the same comprehensive visit for $90. We want our new patients to have something to smile about beyond their first visit, and our close-knit staff is committed to your personal confidence and comfort.

Your body is naturally exposed to small amounts of radiation every day from sources such as sunlight and household appliances. Dental X-rays contribute only a minimal amount to that overall exposure. Thanks to modern technology, today’s digital X-ray machines emit extremely low levels of radiation — far less than older systems.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), lead aprons are no longer required under current guidelines, as the exposure is considered negligible. However, most dental offices still offer protective shielding for additional peace of mind.

All dental X-ray equipment is also regulated by federal law and must be inspected every two years to ensure safety and accuracy. For pregnant patients, the ADA and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) confirm that dental X-rays pose no significant risk to the mother or baby when proper precautions are taken.

As we age, the surfaces of our teeth weaken and lose enamel, making them prone to sensitivity, decay, and disease. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that reinforces the hardened surface of your teeth and fights cavities. With so many things (coffee, sodas, acidic foods) bombarding your teeth, your mouth needs a little help. Brushing and rinsing with mouthwash enhanced with fluoride helps maintain your teeth’s natural resistance to decay. Use a toothpaste rich in fluoride, and ask your dentist if you’re unsure of which brand is best for you.

Different individuals have different dental needs, however, so ask the dentist or a hygienist if a specific type of toothpaste is best for your mouth.

Fluoride is safe for children ages 3 to 6 as long as they don’t ingest it, because higher levels can be harmful or toxic. For children of this age group, the size of a pea is the proper amount of toothpaste to use, but a child’s brushing and use of mouthwash should be monitored at all times to ensure they don’t swallow an excessive amount.

Children younger than 3 should not have their budding teeth brushed with fluoridated toothpaste. A parent should brush the child’s teeth with non-fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-thistle brush. The amount of toothpaste should be no more than the size of a grain of rice.

Absolutely! You should floss once every single day. Brushing your teeth only gets the surfaces. Flossing your teeth is the only way to remove plaque and bacteria between teeth that can lead to dental decay and gum disease.

Dental bonding is a fast, effective, and affordable way to enhance the appearance of your smile. It’s commonly used to repair teeth that are discolored, cracked, or chipped, and can also be used to close small gaps between teeth. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and involves applying a tooth-colored resin that is then carefully shaped and hardened for a natural-looking, long-lasting result.

When they are administered by skilled dentists, whitening treatments can safely brighten your smile. Some over-the-counter treatments may not be as effective and could possibly damage your teeth. If you want to whiten your teeth, it’s important to do so through the dentist’s office.

After a tooth extraction, you will be sent home with gauze in your mouth. Biting down on the gauze helps to form a clot in the area, which aids in healing. You will also be given additional gauze to replace the gauze as needed. You will likely be advised not to spit, smoke, or drink through a straw, as this can lead to a dry socket or other complications. You also should not rinse vigorously in most cases. The doctor may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation. The dentist will explain post-procedure instructions that are relevant in your case, so ask her for additional information as needed.

A dental implant is a strong, long-lasting solution for restoring your smile and improving your bite. Implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth—and with proper care, they can last a lifetime.

The dental implant process takes place in several stages. It begins with a consultation and evaluation, which typically includes X-rays and a thorough examination of the treatment area.

Next, a small titanium post (the implant) is surgically placed into the jawbone. This serves as the root for your new tooth. The bone is then given three to four months to heal and securely fuse with the implant.

Once healing is complete, your dentist will take impressions to create a custom crown that fits seamlessly with your surrounding teeth—usually without the need for additional surgery or anesthesia. The result is a natural-looking restoration that blends beautifully with your smile and provides lasting stability.