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Common QuestionsPatients
often have questions about dental procedures they have had done or
our office policies, and though we encourage our patients to call
us anytime, we have provided this page of answers to some of the
most commonly asked questions.
How does the
Dr. Carter keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and
materials?
Dr. Carter subscribes to the latest journals to keep current on research
and development in the dental profession. He also takes time on a regular
basis for continuing education, and ensures his staff does the same. As
a team and as individuals, our office makes it our responsibility to be
familiar with the latest techniques and materials available. Can you show
me what my smile can look like ahead of time with imaging software?
We routinely use dental imaging to
help our patients visualize the end results of cosmetic and restorative
work. By simply asking the right questions, taking various photos
of your current smile, and keying in the correct input into the computer,
we will generate a graphic image to demonstrate how your
procedure will affect your smile. Do you accept
referrals?
We are happy to accept referrals from other dental offices as well as
from recommendations by our patients. Your referrals are our best compliments!
How can I
safely whiten my teeth?
There are a number of procedures available
to help whiten your smile. Dr. Carter can help evaluate your potential
for whitening your teeth, based on their current color and the causes
of any discoloration. Once you have decided on the most appropriate
method, you will probably spend anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks undergoing
a series of simple whitening treatments. What precautions
do you take to ensure patient safety?
Our entire practice team is well trained
in state-of-the-art sanitation techniques designed to ensure patient
safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks to prevent
passing germs, and includes a specialized sterilization center. My gums bleed
after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
It is certainly not desirable to have bleeding gums following brushing.
However, the condition may or may not require attention, depending on
the source of the problem. Bleeding gums can be caused by any of the following:
improper, rough, scrubbing instead of gentle, circular brushing motions;
using a hard-bristled toothbrush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or
tartar build-up below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis
or periodontal disease. If this problem persists despite correct brushing
and flossing methods or occurs every time you brush, contact our office
to set up an evaluation appointment. I want my
front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What
would you recommend?
Dr. Carter has a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth
without the use of braces. For slightly crooked or unevenly worn teeth,
a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers may be sufficient
to give them a bright, uniform look. We would be happy to speak with you
further about the option that best suits your individual situation. My spouse
snores and keeps me up at night. I have heard a dentist might be
able to prescribe an appliance that prevents snoring. Can you help?
Snoring is tough on any relationship!
And, since it can be caused by a number of factors, we encourage
you to have your spouse come in for a consultation and analysis with
Dr. Carter to determine the cause. In some cases, a person may actually
stop breathing for short periods during the night -a condition called
sleep apnea. In other cases, snoring can be caused by enlarged anatomical
structures within the mouth and throat. During sleep, the throat
area relaxes, allowing these structures to collapse against one another
and obstruct clear airflow. In the latter situation, we can prescribe
and fit a special appliance called a ‘snore-guard’, which gently
holds the mouth and throat in an open position during relaxed sleep
and thus prevents snoring. What is Smile
Analysis?
Smile analysis determines the proper aesthetics with relationship to
your facial symmetry, lip line and phonetics. Each person has a unique
"perfect" smile; one proportional and flattering to his or her
face. And with Smile Analysis, we will show you what your best smile can
look like. What is Smile
Design?
The highlight of smile design is watching
your eyes light up the first time you look in the mirror at the change
that has taken place. Our experience of watching our guests react
to their new smile is almost overwhelming. We see an immediate change
in their confidence and their interaction with others. The result
is the creation of a beautiful new smile with a comfortable neuromuscular
occlusion. Typically changing the clinical smile
is rewarding, but when clinical changes affect the psychological
and emotional components---that is exhilarating! Most see dentistry
simply as a repair and maintenance facility. But when patient's lives
are changed in such drastic measures, it confirms the reason many
of us got involved in dentistry in the first place, which is to help
others. |
| ©2004 Edward M. Carter, DMD, FAGD :: Site designed and maintained by TNT Dental | |
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