Ask Your Tucson Dentist-Dental Village

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Q:	How do the dentists at Dental Village keep up to date on all of the current techniques and materials?
A:	Our Dentists subscribe to the latest industry journals to keep tabs on research and development in the dental industry. They also take time on a regular basis for continuing education and ensures the staff does the same. As a team and as individuals, our offices make it a responsibility to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available.



Q:	Do you accept my insurance plan?
A:	We do accept most insurance plans, and are well-versed in the latest coverage trends. We ask that you pay your co-pay at the time of your visit, and then we'll be happy to help you file to maximize the benefits through your particular plan.



Q:	Crowns, Veneers, Onlays, and Inlays; how can I learn more about these procedures?
A:	With today's technology, materials, and advanced techniques, we have many options for restoring weak, broken, chipped, discolored, and/or missing teeth bringing your smile back to its original shape and function. For example, we can apply an all -porcelain crown, somewhat like a 'cap', to cover the entire outside of the problem tooth. Crowns are also helpful to cover large areas of decay after they've been filled. Or, for smaller areas of decay, we can apply all - porcelain onlays or inlays similar to crowns, but retaining more natural tooth structure. For unattractive front teeth, we can create pretty, natural shapes and shades by applying paper - thin porcelain veneers to the fronts.



Q:	I want my front teeth to look better, but I don't want to wear braces, what can you do to help?
A:	Dental Village has a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth without the use of unsightly braces: bonding, all -porcelain crowns, or the addition of porcelain veneers. It depends on the specific patient preferences, and the particular situation: for slightly misshapen or unevenly worn teeth, composite resin bonding will often work wonders to even out a smile. Or, for slightly crooked front teeth, a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers or crowns may be sufficient to give them a bright, uniform look. We'd be happy to talk with you further about the option that best suits your needs. The Doctors at Dental Village are also specially trained with Invisalign.



Q:	Is it bad if my gums bleed after I brush my teeth?
A:	It's certainly not desirable to have bleeding gums following brushing. However, the condition may or may not require attention, depending on the source of the problem. Bleeding gums can be caused by any of the following: improper, rough, "scrubbing" instead of gentle, circular brushing motions; using a hard -bristled tooth brush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or tartar build -up below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. If this problem persists despite correct brushing and flossing methods, or occurs every time you brush, we suggest you contact our office to set up an evaluation appointment.



Q:	What about my children at what age should they first see a dentist?
A:	We advise parents to bring their children in during one of the parental visits, at around 2+ years of age. First of all, this non -threatening situation provides us with an opportunity to get acquainted with him/her so that when they come in for their first cleaning appointment six months later, they're comfortable with our office and staff. Secondly, if the child is amenable to it, we can let them sit in the chair after the parent's cleaning, show them how we count teeth, and familiarize them with some of the instruments.



Q:	What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
A:	In case of a true dental emergency, after hours, please contact our office voice mail and listen for instructions. Then, call us immediately to let us know the nature of your condition. For more information on after hours dental emergencies click here.



Q:	Do you accept referrals and/or new patients?
A:	We're happy to accept referrals from other dental offices as well as from recommendations by our patients to their family and friends. We request that a patient evaluation form be completed prior to the first visit; we'll help you arrange for all records and x-rays to be forwarded to our offices.



Q:	I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What do I do if it comes off or breaks?
A:	If your temporary crown comes off, the best immediate solution is to stabilize it with temporary cement or tooth cement. This is typically something we provide at the time we place the temporary crown. If the crown has actually broken into several pieces, simply wrap the pieces up carefully in a protective container. Either way, you'll want to contact our office at your first opportunity to schedule a time for the doctors at Dental Village to reapply the crown.



Q:	How can I have whiter teeth?
A:	There are two major ways to whiten your teeth. One is the in-office method. Dental Village features Zoom! Teeth Whitening as our in-office method. This is a safe, effective, one hour procedure that whitens your teeth up to 9 shades whiter. The second method is the at-home method that involves trays and whitening solution. This method is effective, however it may take a few weeks to work fully and the results will vary based on your own personal effectiveness with the product.



Q:	What makes you different than any other dental practice I can visit?
A:	There are several aspects of our practice that set us apart. First, our entire staff is a family, and we like to treat our patients as family. From the moment that you arrive, we will make sure that you are relaxed and comfortable. We'll get to know you - your oral health and medical history, yes, but also your concerns about your teeth and what's going on in your life. Second, we have established a reputation of integrity over the 25+ years Dental Village has been practicing in Tucson. If we say that we'll do something for you -whether it's fixing a problem, creating a new smile, or improving your dental health -we'll do it. We find that it creates a relationship of trust, and that's something that our patients really value. And finally, our extensive experience allows us to recognize what needs to be done and then do it effectively. For us, this is more than simply performing a job. It's impacting people's lives. We think you'll find that an improved smile and positive dental health will encouragingly affect your personality.



Q:	What if I need to cancel an appointment? Will I be charged?
A:	In order to maintain a well -run office, we request that all appointment cancellations be made at least 24 hours ahead of time. This ensures that you'll avoid being billed for our time and preparation; it also enables us to work in other patients' emergency visits. There is no charge for cancelled appointments.



Q:	My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?
A:	If your child's tooth is knocked out during office hours, but there is no imminent medical emergency, please contact us immediately. Simply describe the situation over the phone and our office staff will help you determine the safest and most appropriate plan of action. If it's after hours, the messaging system will instruct you on how to contact us.



Q:	I am a new parent, what are the most important things I should know about my child's developing teeth?
A:	Review the Dental Health for Life section of this site for more information about children's dental care.



Zoom!® Frequently Asked Questions

Q:	What is Zoom! tooth whitening?
A:	Zoom! is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin. You may have seen the Zoom! process used on ABC’s Extreme Makeover.



Q:	How long does Zoom! Chairside Whitening take?
A:	The complete procedure takes less than an hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed as little as by 45 minutes of bleaching. (A cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom! whitening session.)



Q:	How does the Zoom! In-office system work?
A:	The Zoom! light activated whitening gel's active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As the Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. A study has shown that use of the Zoom! lamp increases the effectiveness of the Zoom! gel by 26% or more, giving an average improvement of up to eight shades.



Q:	What will I experience during the Zoom! In-Office Procedure?
A:	During the procedure, patients may comfortably watch television or listen to music. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.



Q:	How long will the results last?
A:	By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and occasional touch-ups with Zoom! Weekender or Nite White gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available only through your dental professional.



Q:	Are there any side effects?
A:	Sensitivity during the treatment may occur with some patients. The Zoom! light generates minimal heat which is the usual source of discomfort. On rare occasions, minor tingling sensations are experienced immediately after the procedure, but always dissipate. You can also ask your dentist to supply you with anti-sensitivity toothpaste for use prior to treatment.



Q:	What causes tooth discoloration?
A:	There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.



Q:	Do many people whiten their teeth?
A:	More people than you might imagine. A bright sparkling smile can make a big difference for everyone. The Zoom! Chairside Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.



Q:	Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
A:	Almost anyone. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Your dental professional can determine if you are a viable candidate for this procedure through a thorough oral exam, including a shade assessment.



Q:	Is whitening safe?
A:	Yes. Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Zoom!® Frequently Asked Questions