The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and professional cleaning. We here at Maplewood Dental Associates also recommend a minimum of two visits per year.
One of our staff members will compile your medical and dental history during your first visit. We will then examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, take X-rays of your teeth as needed, and complete a TMJ (temporomandibular or jaw joint) exam.
After we review your dental profile, we will discuss a diagnosis with you. If treatment such as a root canal (endodontics), braces (orthodontics), or oral surgery is needed, we will treat you in our office or refer you to a specialist. We will discuss your options for treatment and fee payment and help you determine the best plan to fit your needs.
During regular follow-up visits, we will examine your teeth and gums, screen you for oral cancer, clean your teeth, and make treatment plans as needed. We will discuss any pain or problems you may be experiencing and answer any questions.
Painless dentistry ensures that your total experience in our office is as stress-free and pain-free as possible. We will discuss treatment options that may require no local anesthetic and alleviate pain by the most comfortable means to you whenever possible.
Please call our office as soon as you determine that you have a dental emergency. We will gladly work you into our schedule if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. After hours, over the weekend, and during holidays, please call our office for the doctor's emergency contact number.
Yes. We accept many types of dental insurance and will process your claim upon receipt of co-payment. We offer a low-interest rate payment plan and accept most major credit cards.
Several methods are available for bleaching teeth, one of which is bleaching trays. We make an impression of your teeth and create a tray that you fill with a small amount of bleaching gel and wear for up to two hours daily. The bleaching process takes approximately two weeks.
Another method for teeth whitening is professional-strength bleach strips, which are only available from a dentist. The ADA recommends that you seek the professional advice of a dentist, including examination and diagnosis of the cause of tooth discoloration before you begin any bleaching program.
With the help of cosmetic dentistry, we have many different procedures that can help these problems. Porcelain veneers are designed to look like your natural teeth and are individually attached to the fronts of your existing teeth. Veneers can be positioned to close gaps. Bonding utilizes a composite material made of plastic to fill in areas of your teeth and correct chipping and shape problems. Both porcelain veneers and bonding are color-matched to the rest of your teeth.
We hope we have answered any questions you may have regarding your upcoming visit to the dentist. If you have further questions about your regularly scheduled visit, a dental emergency, or wish to know more about what cosmetic dentistry procedures we offer, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to provide Maplewood, MN, with great dentistry for the entire family.
