Q&A at Brookside Family Dentistry

Dentist Serving the O'Fallon Community

At Brookside Family Dentistry, we believe that patient education is key to maintaining a healthy smile. Below are answers to some of the most common dental questions we receive. If you have any additional concerns, feel free to contact our office.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth often result from gum recession, which exposes the underlying dentin. This allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage sensitivity, there are several toothpastes, gels, and dental treatments available. If you experience significant discomfort, speak to our team about the best solution for you.

Great oral health starts with consistent at-home care. Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to protect your teeth and gums. Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine will greatly reduce your risk of gingivitis and tooth decay as you age.

Gingivitis occurs when bacteria surround the teeth and enter the gums, causing irritation, inflammation, and bleeding. To prevent it from worsening, regular hygiene visits are essential. During your appointment, our hygiene team will teach you proper flossing techniques and home care routines to prevent periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that accumulate around the teeth and infect the gums. The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis, which, if untreated, can lead to severe symptoms such as:

  • Bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Gum sensitivity to acidic foods
  • Abscesses
  • Tooth pain
  • Tooth loss

Periodontal disease is a chronic condition that requires immediate attention. Treatment may include:

  • Periodontal cleanings
  • Root planing and scaling
  • Laser therapy
  • Local antibiotics

In severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary.

  • Silver fillings (amalgam) have been used for decades and are made from a metal alloy. They expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing bacteria from entering the tooth.
  • White fillings (composite resin) are made of plastic or glass polymers and blend naturally with your tooth color. They provide aesthetic and functional benefits, preserving the natural look of your smile.

There are many cosmetic dentistry procedures available, including:

  • Tooth whitening
  • Bonding
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Porcelain crowns

Our team can create a customized treatment plan to help enhance your smile. Contact us for a consultation.

Tooth whitening is a safe and cost-effective way to brighten your smile. Over time, fluoride has been added to whitening products to reduce tooth and gum sensitivity. The whitening process can last for years with proper maintenance. However, beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, and wine can reduce its effectiveness.

Bonding is an affordable cosmetic procedure used to fill gaps in teeth or change tooth color. The results are immediate, and in just a few hours, you can achieve a brighter smile. However, bonding may discolor over time, especially with frequent consumption of coffee, tea, cola, or wine.

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They can correct:

  • Fractured teeth
  • Tooth discoloration from age or medication
  • Crooked or uneven smiles

The procedure typically requires two visits and provides a long-lasting, natural-looking solution.

A dental crown is a permanent restoration that covers the entire tooth to improve its strength, shape, and appearance. It is often used for damaged, weakened, or root canal-treated teeth.

A dental implant is a man-made tooth replacement designed to mimic a natural tooth root. Made from titanium, the implant is inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses over time to create a secure foundation for a replacement tooth.

  • Look and function like natural teeth
  • Provide a permanent solution for missing teeth
  • Help prevent bone loss and periodontal disease
  • Avoid the need for a removable denture
  • Preserve the health of adjacent teeth, unlike traditional bridges

With advancements in modern dentistry, most people are candidates for dental implants. However, exceptions may include individuals with chronic illnesses, heart disease, or severe osteoporosis.

The dental implant process typically requires three to four visits:

  1. Initial consultation and x-rays to plan the procedure.
  2. Surgical placement of the implant, followed by a healing period of several months.
  3. Placement of a custom porcelain crown over the implant for a natural appearance.

The cost of a dental implant varies depending on the complexity of the case. A consultation is necessary to discuss pricing, insurance coverage, and financing options.

With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, dental implants can last 30 years or more, often lasting a lifetime.

Yes! We offer flexible financing options to make quality dental care affordable. Contact us to learn more about available payment plans and insurance coverage.

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Brookside Family Dentistry

If you’re looking for affordable, top-quality dental care in O’Fallon, MO, our new patient specials make it easy to get started. Contact us today to book your appointment and experience the difference at Brookside Family Dentistry!

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