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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Patricia Carrillo
25 October 2026
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Nice people and had a good visit all around.
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Michelle Bundy
16 October 2026
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Wow I’ve never been to a dentist that was so nice and actually listens. I have never been to a dentist I wanted to go back too! Definitely A+ highly recommend them!
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Brad Ward
10 October 2026
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Dr. John is a no Not sense kind of doctor gets things done always on time.has helped me on my journey on a new set of teeth. I feel that Crystal in the front office has got me in ASAP when I’ve had a little discomfort. I am very appreciative. I would recommend Brookside Dentistry.
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TC Armistead
8 October 2026
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Thank You.
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Terrie
7 October 2026
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Very state of art - friendly and explained things so I could understand gave me tips and answered all my questions…
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Cc
25 September 2026
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Very friendly environment and well experienced at doing a professional service. I really appreciated Dr. John , he pulled 2 teeth and no problem or pressure. I feel Dr. John and his staff are wonderful at what they do. Thank you PS : Dr. John is a expert 😉. Dr. John made a partial lower bridge. Im so surprised no pains at. They fitted perfectly. Thank , Dr. John
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Kathy Sivils
17 September 2026
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Everyone is so nice here!! I like seeing them for my appointments!!
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Robert Adams
15 September 2026
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Dr John Paden was very good. And the person doing the cleaning was very good too
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Ginger Simon
10 September 2026
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This is absolutely the best dentist and office staff! Easy to schedule with, caring and professional. Also, for those of you out there that do not have dental insurance, they offer an excellent in house plan for you.
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Tiffani Hartz
1 September 2026
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I was terrified to go tot he dentist because I was embarrassed about my teeth, Ms. Randee made me feel so comfortable and at ease. Dr John was very nice and professional and I didn’t feel judged at all. A scary experience was definitely turned to a pleasant one - I will definitely be going back !
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Rick Briney
27 August 2026
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Pleasant experience per usual. I specifically enjoyed that the Dental Hygienist gave me the "whys" of what was happening and what I can do to prevent the aggressive scraping. I had many questions and she took the time to explain everything.
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Beverly Pogue
25 August 2026
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Tooth broke, they took me in right away and all of them are the nicest and sweetest people. Wouldn’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys‼️‼️‼️
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Susie Gaffney
22 August 2026
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The whole team is awesome .Dr Paden is awesome and compassionate!!! Highly recommend this practice!!!!
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Scottie baker
21 August 2026
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Love going to Brookside . From making and appointment then getting to the office visit .I recommend Brookside to my family & friends.
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marshamelton
19 August 2026
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They all are very nice and Dr. John takes the time to explain what needs to be done.
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Alexae Dunn
18 August 2026
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As someone with severe dental anxiety, the entire team at Brookside Family dentistry went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable and on my way to a speedy recovery in no time. At no point did I feel rushed, the dentist and his assistant were very accommodating, patient, and kind. Will definitely be returning in the future.
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Mary Baggett
5 August 2026
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Wonderful 2nd visit. The hygienist and the doctor were very thorough and personable and took time to discuss any questions that I had. I highly recommend Brookside.
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Michele Waller
31 July 2026
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What a great place to go get your teeth done everyone there is very kind. Dr. John is awesome. He’s like the best dentist I’ve ever been to very gentle and does a great job. I’ve had four crowns and a filling plus a wisdom tooth taken out just a few days ago and he did an awesome job and I’m doing very well thanks to dr. John and the staff.
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Ronald Kettler
27 July 2026
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Had a crown come loose and my dentist for the last 15+ years retired and I needed to find a new one. To my surprise, Dr. John was able to see me the same day I called for an appointment. Everyone at his office in O'Fallon was so polite and professional. Dr. John I definitely is now my new dentist to take care of my teeth in the future. Thanks also to Crystal in the front office and Deja the hygienist for prompt and friendly attention in solving my issue with my crown. I highly recommend Dr. John if you are looking for a new dentist to take care of your teeth.