Cary NC Dentist
As a kid, you probably saw the dentist regularly. However, into adulthood, most people see their dentist less and less. This doesn’t necessarily mean that an adult’s teeth or healthier or that adults have fewer problems. There are a lot of factors that go into a person deciding not to see the dentist. So, how often do you really need to go to a Cary, North Carolina dentist? The answer may be different for different patients, but here is a general guide.
Importance of Regular Checkups
Regular dental visits are always important. Your Cary NC dentist needs an opportunity to check your mouth for any oral health problems. Tooth decay, for instance, gets progressively worse over time. If you catch decay early, then you’re able to use preventative measures and you can take care of the decay quickly. If you wait for too long, the problem worsens. Serious dental issues lead to more serious and expensive procedures. If you want to keep your smile healthy, you have to see your dentist regularly.
Not only will your Cary NC dentist be able to tell you if there is anything wrong with your oral health, but he or she can help advise you on what steps to take while you’re at home. Their assessment of your teeth can help you develop a plan for continued oral health.
How Often Is Enough
Most dentists will recommend that you see them at least twice a year. Usually, they suggest that you see a dentist every six months. This gives the dentist a good time frame to detect early problems and to help you with preventative care. However, this isn’t for everyone. For some people, dental appointments once a year might be good enough.
In addition to your regular appointment, you should get dental x-rays. Some dentists may take x-rays once a year, whereas others may need to take them more regularly. While there are standards that the dental industry uses, it’s important that you speak with a Cary NC dentist to figure out what’s best for you.
When it comes to your teeth, regular checkups are necessary. Even if you feel like your teeth are healthy, there are problems that can sneak up on you. Some problems with your teeth are not going to have symptoms right away. In some cases, even cavities are asymptomatic until they get worse. At the very least, you should see your dentist twice a year. If you’re ready to schedule your regular dentist appointment, contact a Cary NC dentist today from Alliance Dentistry.
Commonly Asked Questions About Visiting a Dentist
Regardless of your age, your oral health is important. According to the American Dental Association, there are 100 million Americans who don’t visit a dentist on an annual basis. Unfortunately, these people are at a greater risk for experiencing oral-related problems, including cavities, gum disease, or tooth decay.
Many people avoid the dentist out of fear. It is important to understand that most of these fears are based on stories, lore, or one bad experience out of many good ones. Not all dentists are created equal, and thanks to technology, there has been significant improvement in dental treatments, as well as pain-free techniques. Finally, you have a choice in the dentist you choose. It is important to choose a Cary NC dentist that you are comfortable with. By doing so, you will alleviate most or all of your fears and anxieties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting A Dentist in Cary, NC
When you make sure to visit a dentist on a regular basis (usually every 6 months to one year), you can feel confident in knowing any possible problems are spotted early on. A regular exam can also prevent problems from occurring and make sure you are staying on top of your oral hygiene.
What are indicators that suggest I need a dentist?
- You have puffy, inflamed, red, or painful gums.
- You have dentures, implants, crowns, or fillings.
- You have lost a crown or filling.
- You have persistent bad breath.
- Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- You are having a difficult time with chewing or swallowing.
- Your mouth, neck or face is swollen.
- You have diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
- You are experiencing a chronic dry mouth.
- You use tobacco products.
- You have an uneven bite.
- You are undergoing chemotherapy.
- You are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
- You are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
- You have a sore spot in your mouth that is not healing.
What will happen during a checkup?
When you come to our dental clinic, an oral hygienist will discuss your medical history with you, and go over any concerns you might have. An oral examination will be done, and if something is suspected, we will likely take x-rays. Depending on any symptoms you are displaying, we might choose to perform various tests, such as an oral cancer screening. After the exam, you may have a cleaning.
When should I visit a dentist?
Some people choose to see a dentist in Cary, NC once a year. Others visit every six months. You will have your own dental needs and could be fine with one or two visits per year. On the other hand, if you have dental problems, you may require more visits.
What should I look for when I am choosing a dentist?
Before you choose the first dentist you find, we recommend taking some time to explore all of your options. You can call the clinic to get a feel for their practice, and if you are really interested, you might schedule a consultation. Most importantly, you want a dentist that you are comfortable with, and one you feel that you will keep for years to come. Some considerations to think about while you look for the right Cary, NC dentist, include:
- What are the clinic’s hours, and are they right for your schedule?
- Is the location good for you?
- Is the clinic kept clean and tidy?
- Does the clinic offer dental emergency appointments?
- Are there after hours appointments?
- Is the dentist willing to take some time to explain the procedures and treatments?
How can I keep a great smile?
Your dentist will encourage you to take care of your oral hygiene at home to ensure you maintain a beautiful smile. Some ways to do this, include:
- Brush your teeth at least two times per day.
- Floss at least once a day, or after eating.
- See a dentist every 6 months to one year.
- Stay hydrated with water.
- Avoid too much sugar
- Talk with your dentist about any concerns.
If you are ready to schedule an appointment with a leading Cary, NC dentist, call Alliance Dentistry today.
What is a Root Canal?
Alliance Dentistry is a popular dentist office in Cary, North Carolina. For years, our dentists and technicians have been making smiles brighter, gums healthier, and mouths cleaner! Whether you are a man, woman, or child, a Cary dentist from Alliance Dentistry would be happy to address your concerns and needs in a timely manner. To learn more about our office, appointment availability, and insurance, please call us today.
General Dentistry Dental Services
As a general dentist in Cary, our clinic offers patients a broad range of dental services. This includes dental exams, x rays, cleanings, fillings, root canals, dentures, and both preventative and restorative dental work.
What You Can Expect at Your First Visit
At our dentist office, we will do our best to schedule you at a time that is convenient for your busy schedule. Upon your arrival, we will ask you to complete basic forms and provide you with a few minutes to make yourself comfortable. From there, you’ll meet with a technician or dentist for your initial oral exam. We know this can be a time that procures anxious emotions, but rest assured, we are known for our gentle, careful approach and will do our best to make you feel at ease.
Your General Exam
After an oral exam, we might recommend that x rays or radiographs be done. Preliminary tests to gauge the health of your teeth will also be conducted. After, the dentist will diagnose you and recommend a course of dental treatment. This exam and diagnosis will be followed by a dental cleaning.
Reviewing Your X-Rays
Not all patients will need an X-ray, but when necessary, they will be taken using the most up to date and safest methods possible. After, the dentist will review the X-ray to look for potential cavities, issues with the gums, potential jaw bone problems, and any other issue that might not be seen otherwise.
When a child has an X-ray, the dentist will be able to determine whether or not their teeth are coming in correctly. They can also see impacted teeth, missing teeth, or even extra teeth. If there are impacted or extra teeth, your dentist may suggest oral surgery to have the teeth removed. In some cases, this is necessary to avoid pain, infection, and other problems.
Why Choose Alliance Dentistry to Be Your General Dentist in Cary
If you are looking for a new general dentist in Cary, you might realize there are several offices to choose from. Each of these facilities can help to maintain and improve the wellbeing of your mouth. That being said, you may be looking for a dentist who:
- Listens to your concerns
- Answers your questions
- Takes into consideration what you have to say
- Does not over-recommend treatments
- Does not exaggerate a potential problem
- Will try to save your teeth in the event of a severe cavity
- Will not overuse the radiographic equipment
- Can recommend you to oral surgeons and orthodontists if you need this treatment
- Accepts a broad range of insurance policies
- Can work with you on payment plans
- Offers practical evening and weekend appointments
If this sounds like the kind of dentist you are looking for, please call Alliance Dentistry as soon as possible.
What is a root canal?
There’s no need to be apprehensive if your Cary dentist recommends a root canal procedure to treat a damaged or diseased tooth. Root canal treatment is very common and typically as easy as a regular filling. Nothing like its dreadful reputation of the past, current endodontic, or root canal treatment can usually be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition and size of your tooth. It is relatively painless and restores teeth back to a healthy state again.
Your tooth is made of a hard, outer white layer called enamel. Underneath the enamel is another hard, yellow layer called dentin and under that is a soft tissue chamber called the pulp. The pulp consists of living blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, which help grow the root of your tooth during its development. Once fully developed, the pulp is not necessary for tooth survival; it continues to be sustained by the tissues around it.
What are the advantages of having a root canal?
Besides saving your own tooth, undergoing root canal treatment has many advantages:
* Maintains efficient chewing
* Allows for normal biting force and sensation
* Preserves the natural appearance of your smile
* Protects other teeth from excessive wear or movement
What are the indications of a root canal procedure and what is involved?
Endodontic or root canal treatment is indicated when the pulp of your tooth becomes inflamed or infected as a result of deep decay, repeated dental procedures, inadequate crowns, or a crack or large chip in the tooth. Trauma to your tooth, resulting from sports injuries or accidents, may also cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks, and may not become apparent for years. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
During a root canal or other endodontic procedure, the inflamed or infected pulp tissue is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned, shaped and disinfected, leaving a hollow-like tube. This tube is then filled and sealed with a biocompatible rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, your Cary dentist will restore the tooth with a build-up and crown or a filling for protection and it will continue to serve like any other tooth in your mouth.
Having a root canal allows you to maintain your natural smile and continue eating normally. When cared for properly, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Are there any alternatives to root canal therapy?
If a tooth requiring a root canal is not treated, it must be removed. While that may seem like an easier fix at the time, it can present challenges in the future. After an extraction, a dental implant, fixed bridge or removable partial denture is usually necessary to prevent the remaining teeth from drifting. Generally, these replacements are more expensive and time-consuming than root canal treatment, and while stable, they are usually never as good as the feeling of a natural tooth. Talk with your Cary dentist about the best treatment for you.
