When should my child go to the dentist?
While many parents feel the baby teeth (primary teeth) are not important because they are eventually lost, the reality is that the baby teeth are very important. The baby teeth obviously allow for proper chewing of the food and nutritional intake. But the baby teeth also promote proper speech development and maintain space for the adult teeth to erupt. It is recommended that your child be seen by a Pediatric Dentist as soon as the teeth begin to erupt. These early visits allow for the child to become acquainted with the dental office environment. Dr. Laurilla sees children as early as 3 yrs. old, but uses his discretion concerning treatment of your child. If he feels it is best for the child to see the specialist, he'll refer him/her to some of the best specialists in the area.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
For most people, twice a year is recommended. At those apppointments, not only will your teeth be cleaned, but a periodic exam of your entire mouth will be performed. This includes checking your soft tissues (gums and cheeks) and your teeth for any cavities and broken down fillings. Your medical history will also be reviewed for any changes. For some patients, it is recommended they come in for cleanings more frequently to prevent gum problems from developing. Some patients just build up more plaque and tartar faster than others. By keeping the plaque accumulation to a minimum, the more advanced forms of disease can be prevented. For patients with a history of periodontal disease, it is usually recommended they come in every three months to prevent the diseases from reoccurring. To learn more about your periodontal health, please see the Preventative and Family Dentistry section of our website.
How are headaches related to my teeth?
For many people, they relieve their stress at night while they're sleeping by grinding or clenching their teeth. Not only can this damage your teeth, but the clenching/grinding muscles can cause constriction of blood vessels and firing of nerve endings that can cause headaches and migraines. By minimizing the clenching/grinding with a niteguard, not only are you protecting your teeth, but you're also relieving a source of headaches. To learn more about clenching/grinding, please see the Preventative and Family Dentistry section of our website.
Do you participate in my insurance plan?
Dr. Laurilla does participate in certain PPO insurance plans. Please see the Insurance and Payment Options section of our website. While Dr. Laurilla is happy to participate in these insurance plans, not all plans are the same and quite often the best recommended treatment may not be covered by the plan. In these instances, Dr. Laurilla will discuss the pros and cons of all treatment options available for your particular case, and together a decision will be made concerning your treatment plan. Renee, our office manager, can answer any of your questions regarding your insurance plan and payment options.
What is the difference between a silver mercury filling and a tooth colored filling?
A silver filling (amalgam) is made of several types of metals held together by mercury. Although these fillings have been used for a very long time, there are many characteristics of this material that may have negative effects on the tooth. Mercury in filllings has also been a source of controversy concerning health problems caused by these fillings. Tooth colored fillings (composites) not only look great, but are bonded to the tooth. This allows for less drilling of the tooth and more retention of the filling. To learn more about these fillings, please go to the Restorative Dentistry section of our website.
How can I get whiter teeth?
Tooth bleaching has become a very popular and safe way to brighten your smile when done correctly. Dr. Laurilla has two ways to brighten your smile: Zoom 2 In-office Bleaching or At-home bleaching done while you sleep or for one hour a day. To learn more about Tooth Whitening, please go to the Cosmetic Dentistry section of our website.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain coverings that are bonded to the tooth. They are used for discolored teeth, misaligned teeth, or when there are spaces between teeth. Veneers are a great way to get that beautiful smile you've always wanted! To learn more about veneers, please go to the Cosmetic Dentistry section of our website.
