Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Alice, TX
You Ask the Questions, We Provide the Answers
A desire for optimal oral healthcare requires a partnership between the dental patient and the dentist. This means that when questions arise, a trusted dental professional should be able to provide the answers needed for the individual to make the appropriate decision about their dental health. Fortunately, this is what our dental team thrives on – listening closely and providing trustworthy answers to our dentistry patients. Review the materials below and feel free to call us if you have any additional concerns.
How often should I visit the dentist?
The American Dental Association (ADA) and our team recommend visiting the dental office every six months for a general checkup and cleaning. Some patients will require more frequent exams; however, they are usually referred to as periodontal patients. Twice-yearly checkups allow for adequate examination of the oral anatomy. Our team will check for cavities, gum disease, bite misalignment, and even oral cancer.
Does everyone need to have their wisdom teeth extracted?
No, not everyone is required to have their wisdom teeth removed. Some are fortunate that these third molars move in without any issue, causing no complications. However, most individuals do find that once their wisdom teeth appear, pain forms, and the potential for infection increases. This is why Dr. Valadez is happy to provide wisdom tooth extraction to make the process convenient, comfortable, and readily available for patients.
Will I need a referral for dental implant placement?
No, we are pleased to have a dentist near you who has advanced training in placing dental implants. Instead of seeking a referral, you can stay in one convenient location and undergo the complete start-to-finish dental implant process.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
It is recommended that you replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. If you have a manual brush, you’ll need to purchase a new one. If you are using an electric option, simply replace the brush head with one that has not been used. This prevents an accumulation of germs from transferring to your teeth and gums and causing problems. If you’re sick with a virus, you may need to swap out your brush sooner to avoid additional contamination.
I’m afraid of the dentist. Do you offer sedation dentistry?
Yes, we offer various options for sedation dentistry – nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Dr. Valadez is the only sedation dentist in the area, and he is the only one within 100 miles to offer IV sedation. Choosing to provide this type of care makes it possible for patients who suffer serious dental anxiety to receive the treatment they deserve without fearing the dental office and what to expect.
Will you take my dental insurance?
Yes, we will happily welcome your dental insurance. Although we are an out-of-network dental office, we only collect the fees required of the patient and bill the insurance company for the remainder. This makes the process stress-free for the patient. We believe in helping our patients access affordable care and will go the extra mile to take care of as much of the financial side of dentistry as possible.