FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we’ll let you know. Checkups are important because even if you don’t notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential damage. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we’ll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We’ll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
We follow strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and OSHA. Our practices include sterilizing reusable instruments in an autoclave and sealing them for the next use, disinfecting treatment rooms between patient visits, and using disposable products when possible. We always wear disposable gloves during exams and treatment for your safety. During sedation dentistry appointments, we use EKG monitors and finger pulse oximeters to measure heart rate and blood-oxygen level.
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, also known as gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to alleviate your symptoms and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, respiratory problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to significantly damage your health, so call for an assessment now. We’ll help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
Missing teeth can lead to a host of other problems, including additional tooth loss. Research shows that if a missing tooth isn’t replaced, up to 20% of adjacent teeth will be lost in the next four to eight years. Your remaining teeth may shift, causing spaces between teeth, food impaction, bite collapse, chewing alteration, and TMJ pain. You’re also more susceptible to gum disease, a serious health condition that can significantly shorten your life span.
We offer fixed bridges, partials, full dentures, and dental implant restorations. Learn more about these options on our Restorative Services page, then call for a consultation. With digital X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your smile, Dr. Dandois can help you decide which replacement option is best for you.
Many people fear dental visits. It’s a common phobia. We understand dental anxiety and offer solutions to help you overcome your stress. With nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or IV sedation, we can help you gain full peace of mind and body so that you can receive the dental work you need and deserve.
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn’t! Your smile is unique, and we won’t compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we’ll discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white fillings and crowns, and/or replacement teeth. ClearCorrect clear braces may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we’ll present a treatment plan for your review.
These days, there are a variety of orthodontic solutions available to patients. Many are stronger and less noticeable than the braces of the past. If braces are necessary, Dr. Dandois can apply clear or tooth-colored brackets instead of stainless steel ones. He also offers ClearCorrect clear braces to straighten teeth quickly and comfortably, without wires and brackets. Alternatively, you may opt for porcelain veneers to change the shape and alignment of your teeth. If you’d like to enhance your smile, call us to schedule an appointment. After listening to your goals and concerns, Dr. Dandois can suggest the best solution for your unique needs.
We understand that emergencies arise, and we’re sensitive to these special situations. However, if you miss an appointment without letting us know ahead of time, we reserve the right to bill you a nominal fee to compensate. To avoid a missed appointment fee, simply call us 24 hours in advance so that we can fill your appointment time with a patient who needs to see us quickly. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
We’ve partnered with CareCredit, a trusted name in third-party financing, to make dentistry more affordable. These institutions offer revolving credit, low monthly payments and no interest for patients who qualify. Visit the CareCredit website for more information and to complete an online application.