Frequently Asked Questions

Answer: You are not alone. Most people want to have a nice smile since it is the first thing others notice about you. You may be interested in a few minor adjustments or 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. Johnson will suggest a treatment plan for you based on your goals, areas of concern and the overall condition of your oral health.

Answer: If a back tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth will shift into the newly created space. This shifting causes difficulty in keeping your teeth clean and also causes upper and lower teeth to be mismatched when biting which then in turn causes a number of problems, such as “TMJ” and a higher potential of breaking existing teeth. Once a tooth is lost, the bone that was once supporting a tooth melts away, thereby causing the facial structure to sink in.

Answer: By replacing missing teeth either with a bridge or implant, you will alleviate the problems associated with missing a tooth and give your smile back its beautiful, full appearance. A bridge is one solution for replacing a tooth. By using neighboring teeth as the supportive structure, Dr. Johnson 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.

Answer: 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 much of your teeth as possible by catching decay in its earliest stages. We’ll also assess your gums and recommend the appropriate hygiene therapy for you.

Answer: The number one thing you can do for your child is to schedule regular dental visits to see Dr. Johnson. This will give your child a great start on his or her oral health! For your baby, do not let them go to bed at night or naptime with a bottle of milk, juice, etc…The sugar included in those drinks can cause decay rapidly. For the older child, professionally applied fluoride is an excellent way to strengthen enamel. Many times Sealants can be used as a protective coating that aid in prevention of cavities.

Answer: Primary “baby” teeth are designed to function throughout the childhood years. Some of your child’s baby teeth are not lost until age 12. They help in the development of face and jaws and support facial structures and tissues They are also important for eating, and chewing food to aid in proper digestion through your child’s “growing” years.

vital function of primary teeth is holding space and guiding the permanent teeth in place. Baby teeth have relatively thin enamel (hard outer-layer of teeth) and large pulps compared with adult teeth, and can become decayed and infected (abscessed) easily. Healthy, decay-free primary teeth create a healthy environment for your child’s permanent teeth and reduce the chance for tooth decay. Give your child a healthy self-esteem with a healthy, beautiful smile.