| 480.222.8083 |
FAQs
- How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
- I do not like drills. Are there any other options?
- My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
- Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials…Where can I learn more about these procedures?
- Do you refer patients to specialists?
- What are my options to replace missing teeth?
- What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
- How does gum disease affect the body?
- How can I improve my smile?
- My teeth are stained. Can you help?
- How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
- Will you care for my entire family?
How do I know when it is time to come in for a checkup?
We recommend that patients with good oral health schedule a checkup and hygiene visit twice each year. If you need more frequent visits, we'll let you know. Checkups are important because, even if you don't notice any pain or problems with your teeth, we may find signs of potential issues. For instance, demineralization is a precursor to decay, oral cancer often goes undetected until the later stages, and gum disease can be very stealthy. At your hygiene appointment, we'll clean plaque, tartar, and hardened food particles from your teeth. We'll also make sure your gums are healthy and strong.
I do not like drills. Are there any other options?
We offer air abrasion, an alternative to the traditional dental drill. With air abrasion, a stream of air and tiny abrasive particles whisk away decay. Because the tool emits no vibration, heat, or noise, the factors that cause pain associated with a dental drill, most patients don't even need anesthetic.
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, it’s usually from brushing too hard or early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We’ll explain the proper toothbrush to use and how much pressure to apply for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to relieve your symptoms. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults and has been linked to many overall health problems, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can cause significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now.
Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays, and partials... Where can I learn more about these procedures?
Our Patient Library is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. You can also review our Services page for more information. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call us. We’re always happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
Do you refer patients to specialists?
While we’re trained and equipped to handle most dental issues in our office, when a specialist would better serve you, we'll work with a trusted professional to manage your care as a team.
What are my options to replace missing teeth?
We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and dental implants to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our Services page, then call for a consultation. With digital X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, Dr. Hanson can help you decide which replacement option is best for you.
What is a digital X-ray, and how is it different from traditional X-rays?
When compared to traditional radiography, digital X-rays emit about 80% less radiation. Detailed images are immediately available for viewing on chairside monitors in our treatment rooms, and we can transfer digital X-rays and photographs quickly via the Internet to insurance companies and specialists. Digital X-rays require no hazardous developing chemicals, so they're earth friendly!
How does gum disease affect the body?
It hides in your mouth, destroying gum tissue and teeth, and can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and pregnancy complications. Don’t think it’s your problem? Conservative estimates report that up to 80% of the population unknowingly has gum disease in some form. Learn more…
How can I improve my smile?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. We’ll start with a complimentary cosmetic consultation in which we’ll discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations like fillings and crowns, and/or replacement teeth. Invisalign clear braces may also be involved. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile.
My teeth are stained. Can you help?
Yes. We offer whitening solutions to brighten teeth dramatically at home or in our office. We can also whiten gray or darkened teeth internally. Call for an appointment today!
How can you straighten my smile without using metal braces?
Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers or Invisalign clear braces. Read more about these procedures on our Services page.
Will you care for my entire family?
Absolutely. We enjoy creating gorgeous, healthy smiles for patients of any age. If we find that you or a member of your family would benefit from seeing a specialist, we'll refer to a trusted colleague and work with them to manage your care. As a general dentist, Dr. Hanson offers preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and prosthetic dental services suitable for patients of all ages.
