Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will bleaching really whiten my teeth?
A: Bleaching is highly successful in dramatically whitening the natural shade of your teeth. And, if applied by your dentist, it is totally safe and can last for 3-5 years before needing a touch-up.
Q: Is tooth whitening safe?
A: Research and clinical studies have proven that whitening teeth with a special peroxide solution - under the direct supervision of a dentist - is completely safe for tooth enamel and oral tissues.
Q: Would extra fluoride help my teeth?
A: Many people, children and adults, benefit from daily applications of a prescription-strength fluoride gel. It helps guard against cavities, and it desensitizes areas on the roots of the teeth where there has been dental wear and sensitivity.
Q: How many years will a filling last? When does a filling need to be replaced by a crown?
A: Many fillings will last 10 years or more. When the filling begins to leak as it ages, and if it covers more than half the chewing surface of the tooth, it needs to be replaced by a crown. Any filling, no matter how small, weakens the tooth. By covering the tooth, a crown can save the tooth and help protect it from further trauma.
Q: Why do I need a crown if my tooth is cracked, but it does not hurt?
A: The absence of pain is not an indicator of the health of a tooth. If left untreated, a crack in a tooth can cause irreversible damage and can kill the nerve inside the tooth. Once this occurs, only a root canal can save the tooth to avoid extraction.
Q: Why does my tooth need a crown instead of a filling?
A: If the tooth has an extensive crack, or thin, broken, or eroded enamel, a filling is not strong enough to protect and repair the tooth. Crowns fit over the tooth and are custom-designed for increased strength and protection. Only a crown, placed over the tooth, will prevent further damage and save the tooth.
Q: In the past few years, my front teeth seem to have gotten shorter. What can I do about that?
A: Front teeth become worn a result of a bite that is out of alignment. This is similar to wear on the tires of an automobile that is out of alignment. When a person clenches or grinds their teeth, the teeth wear down. The first step is to adjust, realign, stabilize, and balance the bite. Then porcelain veneers or crowns can be used to correct the appearance and create a beautiful and youthful smile.
Q: Why do I need to get my teeth cleaned every 3 months instead of 6 months?
A: Some people are more susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up and/or have the bacteria that cause periodontal disease in their saliva. This is the same bacteria found in heart disease. Periodontal disease is a silent, painless killer of teeth, bone, and gum tissue. It destroys the bone surrounding the teeth, which hold the teeth in place. There is NO cure for periodontal disease. Only more frequent hygiene therapy and preventive medicines can help control periodontal disease and prevent further damage to the diseased tissues.
Q: Why do I need a full set of x-rays?
A: It is not possible to see with human eyes between the teeth, under old fillings and crowns or the bone under the gum tissue. Therefore, to diagnose thoroughly any current problems or disease that may be present, a complete set of x-rays is necessary. The American Dental Association recommends a complete set of x-rays every 3-5 years, depending on the individual patient’s dental and physical history and current needs.
Q: Why doesn’t my dental insurance pay for all of my dental needs?
A: Most dental insurance plans, unlike medical, cover only a small portion of the treatment you need. Your coverage depends on the type of benefit plan your employer purchased for your level of position within the company. In addition, to encourage greater homecare, cleanliness, and dental health responsibility from you, the patient, the insurance company most often only pays a portion of the fee. Dental insurance was designed to intentionally NOT cover all dental costs.
Remember, dental insurance companies make money by gambling that you will use or need the benefits they offer. It is in their best interest, not yours, to discourage the optimum dental treatment a dentist could provide.
Q: Why does Dr. Rainey need a list of all the medications I am taking?
A: Dental anesthetics and all dental medicines, when used alone, are quite safe. When combined with other medications, the interaction could produce a harmful effect. Always keep Dr. Rainey and your hygienist updated with any change in your medical history and a current list of all medications you are taking.
Q: Why do I need a complete evaluation by Dr. Rainey before getting my teeth cleaned?
A: Depending on the level of disease or health of your teeth, gum tissue, mouth, and jaw joints, different types of cleanings and treatments are necessary. For example, routine hygiene care is inadequate for diseased gums and oral tissues and only a dentist can diagnose dental disease. Therefore, to ensure you receive the appropriate hygiene care and treatment for your individual needs, Dr. Rainey will perform a thorough, comprehensive examination, take the necessary x-rays, and together, you and he will discuss your oral health and your desires for dental care.
If you have a question not listed on this page, click here to email him directly and he will be happy to answer your questions.
