Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth usually are a result of brushing your teeth too hard. Over brushing your teeth can cause enamel wear and gum recession which causes the sensitivity.  To manage this, use toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth, and talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments or MI paste. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.

What should I do to prevent tooth decay?

Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual basis. By keeping to a daily routine you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age. It is also important to decrease sugary drinks and snacks as much as possible.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our Hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and Oral Hygiene protocol for Home Care will prevent the Periodontal Disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease is Gingivitis with bone loss, in a nutshell. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens and can cause severe bone loss. 

How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?

 Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing & Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled.  Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

What is the Difference a White and Silver Filling?

Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades.  Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings.  The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth.  This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure.  This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay.  Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match the tooth color. 

How Can I Improve My Smile?

There are several ways in today’s Dental World to enhance your smile.  Certain procedures include:  

  • Tooth Whitening
  • Bonding
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Porcelain Crowns
  • Teeth Straightening with Clear Retainers

We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile.  
Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning. The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly.  Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect.  Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are lab or CEREC fabricated that are then cemented to your natural teeth. This entire procedure can take as few as two visits.   Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth.  This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile.  Many times, patients ask for Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

What are Crowns?

Crowns are lab or CEREC fabricated restorations, typically of porcelain, that permanently covers the entire tooth.  It is recommended for many reasons, mainly when there is more filling than tooth. 

What is a Dental Implant?

A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root.  Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone.  There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure.  After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together.  This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.  

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
  • Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
  • Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
  • Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
  • Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease,  tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
  • Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
  • Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing.  A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, A Dental Implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.

Does your office offer financing for services provided?

Hoye Dental is pleased to offer Care Credit.