1060 Commercial Street, Rockport, ME 04856-3801 Call Us: (207) 594-5500 |
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Dental FAQAre you accepting new patients?Yes! We have three doctors in our practice, and they are all accepting new patients.Do you take insurance?We accept most insurance plans, however we do not “participate” with any insurance company. This means we submit the claims for you and accept assignment of benefits, but any non-covered fees will be the patient’s responsibility.May I just schedule a cleaning?If you are a new patient, it would depend on how long it has been since you’ve last seen a dentist, and what you have for existing records. Typically, we schedule an Initial Exam appointment for most of our new patients. This visit allows us the chance to get to know you and to learn what your individual needs nay be, as well as to update all necessary diagnostic records.Do you see children?Yes, we love to see children. And children enjoy coming here! At three years old, your child will be ready for their first visit. It is a special event, be sure to bring your camera! Of course, if you have a specific concern, please call sooner.Why is visiting the dentist so important?Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:
How often should I see the dentist?Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular check-up at least once every six months - that’s twice a year! Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year. You doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.When should I change my toothbrush?Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth three times a day for two minutes each time. Your dentist recommends that adults and children should change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions as you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently. Patients with gum disease are encouraged to change their toothbrush every four to six weeks in order to keep any bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you’ve been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.What is gum disease?Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not removed in its early stage. Other causes of gum disease include: tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis, or bleeding gums, is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. However, if you have gingivitis and it is left untreated, it may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to bone loss, tooth mobility and tooth loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of gum disease. Common signs of gum disease:
How do I schedule my next checkup?Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know, and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.Do you accept patient referrals?Yes, we love referrals! Our doors are always open to your friends and family, and we look forward to treating them with the same expert care we extend to you.Which sports guard gives the best protection for me or my child?There are several kinds of sports guards available to you; for example, there are stock, boil and bite and custom made ones. The stock or boil and bite, which you will find in stores, tend to be loose-fitting, bulky, and put pressure on the gums. These are often made “one size” fits all. Therefore, many children tend to chew on their guards and not wear them.The custom made guard is the best fitting of all sports guards because it is made accurately to fit your mouth. An impression is taken of your upper teeth, and then the guard is made from the mold. It ensures that it covers all your teeth, does not put pressure on your gums, and it is not loose. The benefits of wearing a sports guard is to protect you from getting a concussion, breaking teeth and better breathing. What are implants?An implant is placed in your jaw by a specialist, such as a periodontist or oral surgeon, to replace the root of a missing tooth. It is usually made of titanium. After the implant has been placed and healed in your jaw, your dentist will be able to make a crown which gives you a natural-looking tooth. Implants can also be used under a denture, giving them much greater retention and stability.Do you offer an at-home teeth whitening program?Yes, we do. Teeth whitening kits from the dentist, versus over the counter, produce faster and more effective results because they contain a stronger peroxide-bleaching agent. Another benefit of trays and gels from the dentist is that the trays are custom made and fit your teeth exactly. Over the counter trays are generic sized and increases the risk of the bleaching agent coming into contact with the gums and causing irritation.All that is required to get started is to have the trays made by taking impressions of your teeth. Then we have you back in to try in the trays and go over the bleaching instructions and get a starting shade of your teeth. Other appointments will be made over a period of weeks, to assess your whitening, until desired shade is achieved. During that period we will help answer any questions or concerns about the progress of whitening your teeth. Do you offer Nitrous Oxide?Yes. For our more nervous patients, we do offer Nitrous Oxide. Nitrous Oxide is a gas that is combined with oxygen to produce a calming effect when inhaled. Unlike other types of sedation, the patient will have a clear head within minutes of stopping of the Nitrous Oxide, allowing them to function normally with no lingering effects. Nitrous Oxide is completely safe and non-addictive. While on Nitrous Oxide, you will remain fully aware of your surroundings and in complete control. |
 Hours Mon Tues Weds Thur Fri 8am to 5pm 8am to 5pm 8pm to 5pm 8am to 5pm By appointment |
