FAQs
Answers to Your Questions
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from brushing too hard or from early-stage periodontal (gum) disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of periodontal disease, we may recommend a deep hygiene treatment to alleviate symptoms and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, and diabetes complications. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to significantly damage your health, so call for an assessment now. We'll help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
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What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
We follow strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and OSHA. Our practices include sterilizing reusable instruments in an autoclave, then sealing them for the next use; disinfecting treatment rooms between patient visits; and using disposable products when possible. We always wear disposable gloves during exams and treatment, for your safety.
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What are one-visit crowns?
With innovative CEREC technology, we can create a custom crown while you wait. This means that in just one visit, you can get a custom-made, all-white, reliable restoration. No temporary. No follow-up visit. It's that simple.
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What are my options to replace missing teeth?
We offer fixed bridges, partials, full dentures, and dental implants. With digital X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your smile, your dentist can help you decide which replacement option is best for you.
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What are dental implants and how long do they last?
Dental implants are a long-lasting, attractive option to replace missing teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth because of a titanium anchor attached to the jawbone. Once the implants are secured, your dentist will attach a handcrafted, permanent crown to each post. We also offer implant-retained dentures and bridges. The life of the implant depends on your age, oral status, and personal hygiene. With proper maintenance, they last most people a lifetime.
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Who makes a good candidate for dental implants?
Most patients are dental implant candidates; however, an ideal implant patient has good oral health, adequate bone structure, and doesn't smoke or drink. We'll evaluate your unique case to determine if implants are right for you. Call today to schedule a consultation.
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How long is a new patient visit? What will happen?
Your first appointment with us will take about an hour. A member of our front-office team will review your paperwork and discuss the reasons for your visit, then escort you to a treatment room to meet your dentist. After discussing your medical and dental history, your dentist will conduct a thorough exam of your teeth and soft tissues. We'll obtain digital X-rays and use an intraoral camera to take pictures inside your mouth. An oral cancer screening is also included. You'll receive an in-depth explanation of findings and suggestions for treatment, and leave with a plan to achieve the fantastic smile that you deserve!
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What can you do to improve the appearance of my smile?
Well, we'd like to start by evaluating your oral health, existing smile, and discussing your idea of a spectacular smile. We may suggest porcelain veneers, Lumineers or DURAthins, teeth whitening, replacement teeth, and replacing metal dental work with all-white fillings or crowns. Your smile may benefit from some artistic bonding or Invisalign clear braces. Call to schedule a cosmetic consultation, and together, we'll determine the best road to your ideal smile.
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Does your office use lasers?
We use many kinds of lasers for precise, comfortable dentistry... DIAGNOdent is our cavity-detection laser. It scans teeth for decay and areas prone to decay and eliminates the need for an examination with a traditional dental hook.
Our soft-tissue laser allows us to treat gum disease, perform crown lengthening, harvest and place gum grafts, recontour gum tissue, and do biopsies. You won't need stitches after laser surgery, and bleeding is minimal. Most patients recover more quickly after laser surgery than they do following traditional surgery.
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Can I finance my dental work?
Yes. We've partnered with CareCredit and Chase Health Advance, trusted names in third-party financing, to make dentistry more affordable. These companies offer revolving credit, low monthly payments, and no interest for up to 18 months for patients who qualify. Visit the CareCredit and Chase Health Advance websites for additional information and to complete an application online. We also offer in-house financing with our Healthy Smiles Discount Plan to give families without dental insurance access to quality dental care. Call for more information.
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Call Fountains Family Dental in Chandler today to schedule your appointment for preventive dentistry, general dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry. Our Chandler practice serves families from, Mesa, Queen Creek, and surrounding areas with full-service dentistry for fantastic smiles. |
