FAQs

We can sum up the difference in one word–commitment. Our team strives to provide each patient with the highest quality dental care and most rewarding experience possible. The doctors invest in many hours of continuing education each year to improve our skills and knowledge as a team. We are committed to excelling in the latest procedures and technology so that we will provide you with the very best care available. Using the finest materials and master lab technicians allows us to deliver the quality we would be proud to offer our own families.

Stains that accumulate because of eating, drinking, smoking, and aging can be effectively removed using three methods:

• In-Office Whitening – We offer the most advanced whitening system on the market – Zoom! Whitening, which lightens teeth up to eight shades in about an hour. The light-activated Zoom! gel penetrates tooth enamel and breaks apart staining compounds without damaging the teeth. Patients who want instant gratification often choose this method.
• Take-Home Whitening – Home whitening kits include custom-made trays and a professional-strength gel only available from your dentist. Wear the trays daily, as directed, for about a week to brighten your smile 6 to 8 shades. Take-home whitening causes very minimal – if any – tooth sensitivity, and it’s a very economical solution for many patients.
• Over-the-Counter Whitening – You’ve probably seen whitening strips, pastes, and trays at your local supermarket. Certain systems can be effective at lightening teeth two or three shades. However, you should always consult your dentist before beginning a whitening regimen, as you could damage your teeth and gums, as well as end up with uneven, splotchy results.

Certain types of stains don’t lighten as well as others, in which case we can recommend whitening alternatives. Ultra-thin porcelain veneers cover discolorations, and the veneers resist staining, so you can continue to enjoy coffee, red wine, and tea without worrying about your tooth color.

Tooth sensitivity can stem from a variety of sources. Sometimes a hairline crack or fracture can cause teeth to become sensitive. Gum disease is another culprit that pushes gums away from the tooth roots, exposing nerve endings to the things you eat and drink. If you grind your teeth at night, this can also create sensitivity. Cavities, old dental work, injuries… the list goes on and on. One thing’s for sure – if your teeth are sensitive it’s probably indicative of a problem, and you should visit your dentist for a diagnosis and custom solution. Sometimes a filling or a nightguard is all it takes to alleviate your discomfort and restore your oral health.

People with healthy teeth and gums need to visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. If gum disease is not present, a healthy mouth cleaning is done. During this procedure, our hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and decaying food particles from teeth. She also polishes the teeth, so they feel smooth and clean. At your healthy mouth cleaning, feel free to ask questions about oral healthcare and homecare tips. Brushing and flossing should be a simple and normal part of your daily life.

Periodontal therapy, or a “deep cleaning,” is intended to heal diseased gums. Early signs of gum disease include bleeding, sensitive, red, or swollen gums. Sometimes patients feel no pain with early-stage gum disease, or gingivitis. The condition can rapidly escalate as bacteria multiply in the warm, wet climate of the mouth. The bacteria create pockets between teeth and gums, breaking down the bond that provides support for your teeth and causing bad breath. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and up to 80% of the population has some level of the disease. If you are advised to have a deep cleaning, don’t delay. Let our hygiene team help you eradicate the bacteria and reverse the damage gum disease has caused in your mouth.

Some people are more prone to gum disease than others. If you smoke, have diabetes, or are over the age of 40, you’re at a greater risk. If left untreated, gum disease can destroy soft tissues, eventually leading to tooth loss. Recent studies have also linked gum disease to heart disease and diabetes, reporting that patients with gum disease are twice as likely to develop more serious ailments. At Southgate Dental Care, we take gum disease seriously and so should you! Visit us regularly, and we’ll monitor your oral health and recommend treatments when necessary. Together, we can prevent gum disease from claiming your smile and your overall health.

We want to see your child when they have teeth! Most children respond well to a dental visit at a very early age, and the ADA (American Dental Association) and the AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) recommend children have a first visit at one year of age or when the first tooth erupts into their mouth. If you notice any development problems with your child's mouth or teeth, call us to schedule a visit immediately.

MDIs are dental implants that hold dentures in place, and they can usually be surgically implanted in one day. Implant-supported dentures create a reliable hold and freedom from messy adhesives! Learn more about MDI on their website or call our office. We’re happy to discuss our dental services with you and help you gain a clear understanding of your options.

We employ a comprehensive dental sterilization program. In addition, our entire staff has completed training with an extensive monitoring program to provide a sterile and safe environment for patients. All procedures comply with guidelines established by the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control to protect you from exposure to infectious diseases. You can be confident we will never compromise when it comes to your health and safety.

Yes, and thank you for your confidence. We appreciate your referrals and promise to extend the same comprehensive, caring service to your friends and coworkers that we give you every time you visit.