[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.76″ background_layout=”light” border_style=”solid”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I really don\u2019t like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I really don\u2019t like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Many people are uncomfortable with visiting the dentist. Your comfort is our highest priority, and our office is designed so that you can enjoy a relaxing dental visit.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I brush every day, but my breath is just not fresh. Is there anything else I can do?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I brush every day, but my breath is just not fresh. Is there anything else I can do?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Millions of people struggle with halitosis, (bad breath) , despite daily teeth brushing. Here is a checklist of procedures that can eliminate the problem: twice daily brushing, daily flossing and tongue cleaning; regular professional cleanings and careful cleaning of any dentures or removable dental appliances. However, if your hygiene is meticulous and if the problem persists, we can offer several additional solutions.<\/p>\n
First, we can recommend a plastic tool called a tongue scraper that cleans away bacterial build-up on your tongue significantly alleviating odors. We can also recommend a specially prepared rinse or toothpaste designed to actually break down the odor-causing sulfur bonds that cause bad breath. Finally, if we suspect a systemic or internal problem such as an infection or underlying condition, we may recommend a visit to your family physician or specialist in order to identify the cause.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What is a crown, and why might I need one?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What is a crown, and why might I need one?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: If your doctor has recommended a crown to you, it is likely either to correct a broken tooth or to repair a tooth that has deteriorated due to cavities (decay). The decay in your tooth eats away at healthy tooth structure much like rust eats away at metal. If not removed, decay will deteriorate the tooth to the point where extraction is the only viable treatment option. Sometimes, decay is removed leaving healthy tooth structure, but not much of it. A crown can then be placed, restoring the look and function of your tooth, while allowing you to keep your natural, underlying tooth structure. Most crowns are precision-milled porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), or full metal (gold or silver) and are individually customized for each application in each patient, giving you a natural, long-lasting smile.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What is a crown, and why might I need one?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What is a crown, and why might I need one?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: If your doctor has recommended a crown to you, it is likely either to correct a broken tooth or to repair a tooth that has deteriorated due to cavities (decay). The decay in your tooth eats away at healthy tooth structure much like rust eats away at metal. If not removed, decay will deteriorate the tooth to the point where extraction is the only viable treatment option. Sometimes, decay is removed leaving healthy tooth structure, but not much of it. A crown can then be placed, restoring the look and function of your tooth, while allowing you to keep your natural, underlying tooth structure. Most crowns are precision-milled porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), or full metal (gold or silver) and are individually customized for each application in each patient, giving you a natural, long-lasting smile.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I know I need X-rays, but I\u2019d prefer to not be exposed to unnecessary radiation. Do you offer digital X-Rays?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I know I need X-rays, but I\u2019d prefer to not be exposed to unnecessary radiation. Do you offer digital X-Rays?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Yes, we do offer digital X-rays. Digital X-rays use less radiation and are safer for you than traditional film X-Rays. You will find that in our dental practice, we research the latest trends in technology to find the solutions that best promote your overall health, safety, and comfort.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: How does fluoride help my teeth?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: How does fluoride help my teeth?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Research shows that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and adults by halting tooth decay. It also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay becomes visible. Interestingly, many people continue to be misinformed about fluoride and fluoridation. Fluoride is a safe chemical component when used correctly. When your dentist applies fluoride to your teeth, usually in the form of a fluoride varnish, gel, or foam, that fluoride is more concentrated than the fluoride contained in toothpaste or mouthwash. The ADA recommends that dental professionals use any of the professional strength, fluoride varnish, gel or foam products carrying the ADA Seal of Acceptance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I just want my smile to look good. What are some options to help the appearance of my smile?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I just want my smile to look good. What are some options to help the appearance of my smile?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: You are not alone. Most people want to have a nice smile since it is the first thing others notice about them. You may be interested in a few minor adjustments or you may have concerns that need more attention. Some smiles can be enhanced with simple whitening or bonding treatments. Other smiles need porcelain veneers, crowns or bridges; gum contouring; periodontal therapy or a combination of all these techniques. Dr. Rutledge will suggest a treatment plan for you based on your goals, on your areas of concern and on the overall condition of your oral health.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Dr. Rutledge has a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth without the use of unsightly 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 talk with you further about the option that best suits your individual situation.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: How can losing a back tooth affect my smile?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: How can losing a back tooth affect my smile?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Losing a back tooth will darken your overall smile making it look smaller and narrower. Your smile will appear to stop short, and the look will be exaggerated if your missing tooth has teeth on both sides of it. Function during chewing will be reduced and function of many teeth can be affected by losing just one tooth. When you are missing a tooth, you compensate by chewing differently, putting pressure on different parts of your mouth. This can cause your other teeth to shift, creating gaps and spaces and may even cause fractures that result in additional tooth loss or in the need for restorations.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: By replacing missing teeth either with a bridge or with an implant, you will alleviate the problems associated with missing a tooth and will restore your smile to its beautiful, full appearance. A bridge is one solution for replacing a tooth. By using neighboring teeth as the supportive structure, your dentist places a porcelain restoration into the vacant space, restoring the functionality and look of your smile. A dental implant is also an excellent solution. Dental implants involve the placement of a titanium post directly into the jawbone. Once the post has bonded to the bone, it can act as a new, solid support for a natural-looking, porcelain restoration. Implants can replace a single tooth, or an entire set of teeth, offering more function and permanence than traditional dentures.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What can I expect from my first appointment?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What can I expect from my first appointment?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: During your first appointment, your overall dental and oral health will be assessed with a comprehensive oral evaluation. Upon completion of your medical\/dental health form, we will ask you to tell us your goals regarding your smile, teeth, and gums. Digital photos and X-rays will be taken of your teeth to identify areas of decay, cracked teeth, and malfunctioning restorations. Our goal is to preserve as many of your teeth as possible by catching decay in its earliest stages. We will also assess your gums and will recommend the appropriate hygiene treatment for you.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: Do you accept new patient referrals?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: Do you accept new patient referrals?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Over the years, patients have given us the compliment of referring family and friends to our practice. Our reputation for excellent dental care depends upon two things-our good work and your beautiful smile! Your confidence in our care motivates us to continue to strive for excellence. Thank you for your referrals. Your trust and support are greatly appreciated.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: My teeth keep chipping and cracking. What causes this and what can I do about it?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: My teeth keep chipping and cracking. What causes this and what can I do about it?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Many people who notice chipped or cracked teeth, but who don\u2019t remember when the injury occurred, damaged their teeth while they were sleeping. Grinding or clenching your teeth during the night will cause your teeth to chip, crack, and even break. To keep you from seriously damaging your teeth, we recommend a dental appliance called a night-guard. A custom-fitted night-guard protects your teeth from grinding and clenching in your sleep. Dr. Rutledge takes great care in making sure you have a proper fit to prevent pain in your jaw joint. Do you also suffer from headaches? If so, you may find that a side benefit of your night-guard is headache prevention. Many headaches start during the night, caused by the extreme pressure generated as you grind and clench your teeth. Ask us about having a night guard custom created especially for you.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I want cosmetic dentistry. Does my insurance pay for it?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I want cosmetic dentistry. Does my insurance pay for it?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Dental insurance is designed to assist you in paying for your dentistry. Most procedures are not fully covered by your insurance. Cosmetic dentistry, in particular, is not covered by most dental insurance plans. To help you afford your smile, we offer a variety of payment options, in addition to a monthly payment plan provided by our financial partner, Care Credit\u00ae. We also pay special attention to maximizing the benefits that your insurance does provide. Ask us how you can comfortably afford your dentistry, while maximizing your dental insurance benefits.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What different payment options do you accept?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What different payment options do you accept?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Helping to make your dental care financially comfortable and affordable is important and we proudly offer a variety of options:<\/p>\n
We are happy to estimate fees and insurance reimbursement before starting recommended treatments and will gladly file insurance forms for you.<\/p>\n
Optimal, comprehensive dentistry is what we practice, but we do not base our treatment on what insurance will or will not pay. We base our treatment on what is best for you and any treatment not paid by insurance is your financial responsibility.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I want and need a lot of dental work, but I\u2019m afraid I can\u2019t afford it. Do you offer monthly payment plans?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I want and need a lot of dental work, but I\u2019m afraid I can\u2019t afford it. Do you offer monthly payment plans?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Yes, we do offer monthly payment plans through our financial partner, Care Credit\u00ae.. We provide a variety of ways for you to pay for your treatment so that it fits comfortably into your personal or family financial goals. Our team works with you to create the solution that best accommodates you so you can have the beautiful, healthy smile you have always desired.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: My gums bleed; why is this?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: My gums bleed; why is this?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Gums affected by periodontal disease become red and inflamed, often bleeding during brushing or flossing. Timely treatment can reverse these conditions. However, if these conditions are ignored, your periodontal disease can worsen, becoming a condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis is much more difficult to treat.<\/p>\n
Periodontitis affects your gums, bone and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. To prevent tooth loss, you may require more extensive, specialized treatment from your general dentist or even from a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss \u2013 teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted. If you don\u2019t diagnose and treat periodontitis in its early stages, you may require extensive surgery to save your teeth and may put yourself at risk for other serious health problems.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: 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 \u201cscrubbing’\u201dinstead 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 if it occurs every time you brush, contact our office to set up an evaluation appointment.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: What is periodontal disease?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: What is periodontal disease?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Gums affected by periodontal disease become red and inflamed, often times bleeding during brushing or flossing. If treated in a timely manner, these conditions can be reversed, preventing periodontal disease from developing. Periodontitis, however, is much more difficult to treat.<\/p>\n
Periodontitis affects your gums, bone and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. To prevent tooth loss, you may require more extensive, specialized treatment from your general dentist or even from a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss \u2013 teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted. If you don\u2019t catch periodontitis in its early stages, you may require extensive surgery to save your teeth and may put yourself at risk for other serious health problems.<\/p>\n
According to Caesy Dental Education, \u201cAilments associated with periodontal disease include respiratory disease, pneumonia, strokes, ulcers, difficult-to-control diabetes, low birth weight babies, and infective endocarditis (a dangerous infection of the heart valves). Researchers recently discovered that this chronic infection in your mouth creates an open doorway for plaque bacteria to enter the bloodstream. These bacteria \u2013 streptococcus sanguinis \u2013 may cause blood clots that can block your arteries and even trigger a heart attack.\u201d<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: How do sealants protect teeth?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: How do sealants protect teeth?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: A sealant is a plastic material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teet (premolars and molars). This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids and guarding against disease-causing bacteria.<\/p>\n
Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. However, toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to efficiently extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: Sometimes when I chew I get a sharp pain. What can I do to correct this?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: Sometimes when I chew I get a sharp pain. What can I do to correct this?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Most dental pain brought on by chewing is caused by a fracture, or crack, in the tooth. The pain can be corrected by placing an inlay\/onlay, a crown, or with more advanced treatment. You want to correct the pain as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth. Contact us today to schedule a visit.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: How can porcelain veneers help my smile?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: How can porcelain veneers help my smile?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Porcelain veneers improve your smile by correcting a multitude of cosmetic concerns including: gaps in teeth; chipped and broken teeth; dull or yellowing teeth that cannot be whitened with traditional means; \u201cgummy smiles\u201d (showing too much gum when one smiles); and crooked teeth. Porcelain veneers broaden, straighten, whiten and beautify most any smile. This procedure can be done in as little as two clinical visits. Ask at your next visit about how porcelain veneers can improve your smile or send us an email.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: I want my teeth to be whiter. Do you recommend at-home whitening? ” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: I want my teeth to be whiter. Do you recommend at-home whitening? ” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Dentist directed at-home whitening is an effective ways to brighten your smile. Your dentist customizes the treatment to ensure your happiness with the results.<\/p>\n
Your custom home-whitening kit involves special trays that are customized to fit over your teeth. You also receive prescription whitening gel, which is inserted into the tray before you wear it. Dr. Rutledge and her team give you detailed instructions about how long you should wear the tray each day and you should expect the entire home-whitening process to take between two and four weeks, leaving you with a dazzling smile.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: How can I whiten my teeth?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: How can I whiten my teeth?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: There are multiple ways to whiten your teeth.<\/p>\n
Porcelain veneers are a great way to whiten your teeth in a more permanent fashion. The veneers do not stain with time and also correct many other concerns that you may have including crooked teeth, gaps in teeth and gummy smiles. Most of the smile makeovers you see on television are accomplished with porcelain veneers.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
[\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle admin_label=”Q: As an older adult, do I really need to worry about my dental care?” _builder_version=”3.0.76″ title=”Q: As an older adult, do I really need to worry about my dental care?” open=”off” icon_color=”#910e37″ border_style=”solid” saved_tabs=”all”]<\/p>\n
A: Yes. No matter what your age, you deserve to look and feel healthy. A strong, beautiful, and functioning smile plays a major role in the quality of your life as you age. You will appreciate a better diet, a younger appearance, and greater confidence. Perhaps you have put dental care off for so long that you believe it no longer matters. Not true! We can treat and improve virtually any dental condition. Some conditions are even reversible-even in mature adults!<\/p>\n
Even though there are few limitations on how old you can be to receive restorative dental care, it is always best to act sooner rather than later. You may enjoy your new, healthy smile ten 20, or 30 years or more, and you can save yourself from having to undergo more complicated, intrusive care down the road.<\/p>\n
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