Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ page. Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked dental questions in Ripon, CA, designed to help you better understand your oral health and the dental services we provide. These Ripon dentist FAQs cover everything from preventive care to cosmetic and restorative treatments.

General Dental Care FAQs

Q: Why are my teeth sensitive?

A: Tooth sensitivity often occurs when gums recede slightly, exposing the underlying dentin. This allows hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods to reach the nerve more easily. Desensitizing toothpastes, gels, and certain dental treatments can help manage sensitivity. If your sensitivity is severe or persistent, we recommend scheduling a visit for a personalized evaluation.

Q: What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?

A: Healthy teeth and gums start at home. Daily brushing and flossing are essential to remove plaque and bacteria. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly greatly reduces the risk of cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease as you age.

Gum Health FAQs

Q: What is gingivitis?

A: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It occurs when bacteria build up around the teeth and irritate the gums, causing redness, inflammation, and bleeding. Regular professional cleanings and proper home care can reverse gingivitis before it progresses.

Q: What is periodontal disease?

A: Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that often begins silently with few noticeable symptoms. It starts as gingivitis and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious issues such as:

Chronic bad breath
Gum recession
Gum sensitivity to acidic foods
Abscesses
Tooth pain
Tooth loss

Early detection and treatment are key to controlling this condition.

Q: How do you treat periodontal disease?

A: Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Options may include periodontal cleanings, scaling and root planing, laser therapy, and localized antibiotics. Surgery is typically reserved for advanced cases. While periodontal disease is chronic, it can be successfully managed with timely care and ongoing maintenance.

Restorative Dentistry FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a white filling and a silver filling?

A: Silver fillings (amalgam) have been used for decades and are made from a metal alloy. They are durable but expand and contract with temperature changes.

White fillings (composite) are tooth-colored and made from resin materials. They blend naturally with your teeth, bond tightly to the tooth structure, and help prevent further decay making them a popular modern choice.

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

Q: How can I improve my smile?

A: There are many ways to enhance your smile depending on your goals. Common cosmetic treatments include:

Tooth whitening
Dental bonding
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain crowns

We offer customized treatment plans to help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

Q: What is tooth whitening?

A: Tooth whitening is a safe and cost-effective way to brighten your smile. Modern whitening products often include fluoride to reduce sensitivity. Whitening should always be supervised by a dentist and performed after a comprehensive exam and professional cleaning.

With proper care, results can last for years. However, staining beverages like coffee, tea, cola, and wine can shorten the lifespan of whitening results.

Q: What is bonding?

A: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure used to close gaps, reshape teeth, or improve tooth color. It delivers immediate results, often in a single visit. Over time, bonding materials may stain from foods and beverages, similar to natural teeth.

Q: What are porcelain veneers?

A: Porcelain veneers are thin shells placed over the front of natural teeth to improve their size, shape, and color. The procedure typically takes two visits and is commonly used to correct fractures, discoloration, or minor misalignment often helping patients achieve a younger-looking smile.

Q: What are crowns?

A: Crowns are permanent restorations that fully cover a tooth. They restore strength, function, and appearance and can change the size, shape, and color of a tooth, usually within two visits.

Dental Implant FAQs

Q: What is a dental implant?

A: A dental implant is a man-made replacement for a missing tooth root. It is typically made of titanium and placed into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, creating a stable foundation for a replacement tooth.

Q: What are the benefits of dental implants?

A: Dental implants:

Look and function like natural teeth
Provide a long-term, often permanent solution
Help prevent bone loss and tooth shifting
Do not rely on neighboring teeth for support
Are maintained with regular dental hygiene visits

Q: Who is a candidate for dental implants?

A: Most people are candidates for dental implants. Certain medical conditions such as severe osteoporosis, chronic illness, or heart disease may affect eligibility. A consultation is the best way to determine candidacy.

Q: What does the dental implant procedure involve?

A: The implant process usually takes three to four visits:

Initial exam, X-rays, and impressions
Placement of the implant under local anesthesia
Healing period of several months
Placement of the final porcelain crown

Discomfort is generally minimal and manageable.

Q: How much does a dental implant cost?

A: The cost of dental implants varies depending on the case. A consultation is required to review the procedure, timeline, and associated fees.

Q: How long does a dental implant last?

A: With proper home care and routine dental visits, a dental implant can last 30 years or even a lifetime.

Financial & Office FAQs

Q: Does your office offer financing for dental services?

A: Yes. We offer several financing and payment options to help make your dental care more accessible. Please contact our office to discuss what works best for you.