Dental FAQs Galveston, TX

Dental FAQs in Galveston, TX

Read answers to common questions our dental patients ask at Broadway Dental:

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through, which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are several toothpaste, gels, and even some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.

What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?

Great tooth and gum care starts at home. Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums continually. By keeping to a daily routine, you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is caused by bacteria surrounding the teeth and entering the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed, and often bleed. To prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our Hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and oral hygiene protocol for home care.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surround the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis.’ The gums become irritated, inflamed, and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear. They include:

  • Bad Breath
  • Gum Recession
  • Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
  • Abscesses
  • Tooth Pain
  • Tooth Loss

How do you treat periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. This condition can be controlled Through periodontal cleanings, root planing & scaling, laser therapy, and local antibiotics. Periodontal surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

What is the difference between a white and silver filling?

Silver fillings, known as amalgam, have been around for decades. They are made from a metal alloy and were, for a long time, the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts based on the temperature of the food and drink you consume. This allowed little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled, keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White fillings, or composites, are made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that looks and feels like your tooth structure. This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay. The composite color will match the tooth color rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth.

How can I improve my smile?

There are several ways in today’s dental world to enhance your smile. Certain procedures include:

  • Tooth Whitening
  • Bonding
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Porcelain Crowns

We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is a cost-effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Over the years, fluoride has been added to the whitening product. This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity. 

Tooth whitening must be monitored by your dentist only after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.

The whitening process can last for several years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it would stain your smile!

What is dental bonding?

Bonding is a cost-effective procedure used to fill gaps in front teeth and to change a tooth’s color. The immediate results are amazing. Within a few hours, you will have a great smile! Bonding, like tooth whitening, may change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola, and wine.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your natural teeth. This entire procedure can take as few as two visits. Veneers change a patient’s tooth size, shape, and color. This procedure repairs fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Patients often ask for porcelain veneers to feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

What are dental crowns?

Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth. Dental crowns will change the tooth’s size, shape, and color in as few as two visits.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a few months, the dental implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants:

  • Look and function like your natural tooth.
  • Are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
  • Are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
  • Decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
  • Replace the need for a removable full or partial denture.
  • Focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

With major advancements in dentistry and dental implants, most people are candidates for dental implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.

What does the dental implant procedure Involve?

The average dental implant procedure takes 3 – 4 visits. The first visit is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a temporary prosthesis to cover the implant.

The next visit is to place the implant. We apply local anesthesia to the area (any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist). The dentist will then make a minor incision to place the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area will then be covered with sutures. The procedure is usually completed with little to no pain.

You will return in approximately three months to begin creating the porcelain crown to place over the implant.

How much does a dental implant cost?

Implant costs vary from dentist to dentist. Always schedule an implant consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.

How long does a dental implant last?

With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, a dental implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.

Does your office offer financing for services provided?

Please get in touch with us to discuss our available options to make your perfect smile today!