Adult FAQs

Can I get a copy of my dental records?

Yes. Your records legally belong to you.

How much time does it take to get a crown?

A crown requires two appointments. The first appointment is 60-75 minutes long and involves taking a mold of the tooth and placing a temporary crown in your mouth. We call this the “prep” appointment. The second appointment will be to put the permanent crown in your mouth. This is called the “seat” appointment and takes about 30 minutes.

How much time does a hygiene appointment take?

We book hygiene appointments for an hour. The appointment includes a cleaning and exam as well as time with your hygienist to discuss your dental needs.

Do I always need to have a local anesthetic?

Not always. The dentist will discuss with you the option and determine the need for a local anesthetic based on the procedure and your level of comfort.

Why should I get my teeth cleaned twice a year?

Preventative dental care for healthy teeth and gums requires professional removal of plaque build-up.

My hygienist suggested I get my teeth cleaned four times a year due to periodontal (gum) disease, why?

Clinical research has shown that bacterium that causes bone loss comes back every ninety days in levels that the body can not combat on its own.

Why do X-rays need to be taken?

X-rays are a way of checking your dental health.

Is there a radiation risk when x-rays are taken?

We use the highest speed of film which lowers the amount of radiation a patient is exposed to.

What are the benefits of a fluoride treatment?

Teeth are mineral. Fluoride is proven to strengthen the mineral.

What is scaling and root planing?

The process of removing plaque, calculus and stain from teeth at, and below, the gum line. This is usually done by quadrants.

Why would someone need to have scaling and root planing?

When there is an excess buildup of plaque due to a lack of dental maintenance, homecare, or the inability to access areas in the mouth, professional scaling is required.

What is Arestin and how does it work?

Arestin is an antibiotic, in powder form, that is placed in a periodontal -pocket to help shrink the pocket by killing bacteria that causes periodontal disease.

What is a periodontal-pocket?

A space between the tooth and gum that is deeper than 3mm.

How often should I brush my teeth?

It is recommended that you brush two times a day for two to three minutes each time.

Why does Atkins Dentistry recommend using a Waterpik?

Flossing can only clean the tooth 3mm below the gum. A Waterpik on a low setting will clean more thoroughly and deeply.

Does Atkins only recommend ADA approved products?

Yes.

Why do I need an exam by the dentist after the hygienist has completed my teeth cleaning?

Atkins Dentistry works on the philosophy that four eyes are better than two. The hygienist will note any problem areas during the cleaning, but it is the dentist that must make the final diagnosis. The dentist is the only legal entity that can diagnose. The dentist also performs a thorough exam of the throat, tongue, neck, thyroid, and an oral cancer exam.

What is the recommended way to floss?

Measure a piece of floss from your elbow to the tip of your finger. Wrap the floss around your middle fingers until about an inch is visible. Using your thumbs, work floss in between teeth, wrapping the floss around each tooth front and back in the shape of a “C” and then gently up and down under the gum.

How often should I floss?

Every twenty four hours.

How do I know if I have gingivitis?

Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Another sign of gum disease is gums that have receded or pulled away from your teeth, giving your teeth an elongated appearance. Gum disease can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gums, where plaque and food debris collect. Some people may experience recurring bad breath or a bad taste in their mouth, even if the disease is not advanced.

How and why does fluoride help teeth?

Fluoride is nature's cavity fighter and, along with proper home care, is one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay and improving oral health for people of all ages. For children, fluoride works by making tooth enamel harder and more resistant to the acid that causes tooth decay It's very important for parents to ensure that children are receiving the recommended amount of fluoride. For adults, fluoride helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before it becomes visible in the mouth, a process known as remineralization.