Frequently Asked Dental Questions – San Marcos, TX

Shining a Light on Oral Healthcare

You may be curious about the details surrounding a specific treatment option. Or you might want to know why your dentist must see you every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Countless questions may be running through your mind as you look for a dentist you can trust, which is why we at San Marcos Gentle Dental are here to shine a light on oral healthcare. Review the questions and answers provided below and call us if you would like to discuss this information further.

Are six-month dental checkups and cleanings required?

Yes, they are required if you want to make sure that your teeth and gums avoid cavities, gum disease, and other bite alignment issues. The American Dental Association (ADA) and most dentists suggest that patients keep six-month visits so that professional instruments and trained eyes can review, examine, and monitor changes inside the mouth that could present more serious issues if left undetected or untreated.

What options do I have if I’m missing a tooth?

Typically, there are three options available for patients with missing teeth: dental bridges, dentures, or dental implants. While not all practices provide the latter, these prosthetics are becoming more popular among those living with a complete set of teeth. No matter which option you choose, though, these tooth replacement solutions make it possible to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling again.

Are there ways to reduce my dental anxiety?

Yes, we are pleased to provide sedation dentistry. Whether it is oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide, we can help to create a more calming and relaxed environment. Instead of patients fearing their visit and being worried about the potential discomfort, sedation dentistry can help to create a sense of comfort, making it easier for our team to complete the work, while the patient remains completely at ease.

Why is Invisalign better than DIY aligners?

Invisalign is a professional clear aligner system that is overseen by a trusted dental professional. Regular follow-up appointments are required to ensure that your teeth are moving in the right direction, at an appropriate speed. With DIY aligners, you are not only responsible for taking your own impressions, but you’re unlikely to have a professional closely monitoring your progress. Not to mention, if an emergency arises, your DIY solution will be unable to help.

What should I do if I face a dental emergency?

When faced with a dental emergency, you should first call our office and let a member of our team know that you are suffering from a dental injury. We will survey the severity of your issue and work to get you on the same day for treatment. Depending on the type of accident you sustain, you’ll need to follow various first-aid tips provided by our team to avoid harming your smile further.

Will you take my dental insurance?

We are not in-network with any dental insurance company, but we will do our best to help you get the maximum reimbursement. Our team will be happy to assist in making this process less stressful for you, and we’ll go the extra mile to help you save however we can.