Trumbull Dental Arts has provided answers to some common questions about general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and Invisalign® for our patient’s convenience. If you have further questions that were not answered below or want to schedule an appointment with our dentists, Dr. Alison Kudish or Dr. Mark Conlon, please give us a call at 203-377-0638. We want you to be prepared for your dental visit in Trumbull, Connecticut.
General Dentistry FAQ
When should I visit the dentist?
You should visit the dentist every six months, or twice a year, for a routine exam and cleaning. These preventive appointments are important because they help you avoid costly repairs and restorations in the future. Our team can prevent problems from developing or stop problems in the early stages.
What will happen during my dental visit?
When you come in for a dental check-up, our team will thoroughly clean your teeth to remove plaque buildup and polish them so you have a fresh smile. We will also take X-rays if needed. Our dentists will then thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for any oral health concerns.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Please contact our office as soon as possible if you experience a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth or a severe toothache. We will get you in with our dentists for same-day care and provide you with instructions on how to care for your smile until you are able to come into our office.
How do I take care of my smile at home?
You should brush your teeth twice a day with fluorinated toothpaste and floss once a day. Flossing is important because it removes the plaque and bacteria from under the gums and in between the teeth regular toothbrushes cannot reach. You may also add mouthwash to your routine for an added layer of protection. You should also limit the number of sugary foods and drinks you consume and avoid tobacco products as these can harm your smile.
By following this routine, you can prevent cavities, avoid gum disease and have a clean smile and fresh breath.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays are very safe as they expose you to a very low amount of radiation — less than what you are exposed to by the sun. Advanced technology has also helped them become faster and safer. X-ray equipment is also checked for safety and accuracy every two years as required by federal government.
What can I do if I struggle with dental anxiety?
Many people struggle with dental anxiety. Our team understands and wants to help people who are scared to visit the dentist. Please communicate your feelings so we know the best way to help you, whether that is through listening to relaxing music, practicing deep breathing techniques or providing sedation dentistry to relax you.
Can general dentists treat children?
Our office provides dentistry for patients of all ages, including children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends bringing your child in six months after receiving their first tooth or at their first birthday. At this visit, we can help your child become familiar with the dental chair as well as check that their smile is developing correctly. We also provide dental cleanings, dental sealants, and fluoride treatment for children.
What is gum disease, and how do I know if I have it?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, happens when bacteria infect your gums. These bacteria get stuck in plaque, which hardens into tarter. Your gums will also separate from your teeth, creating pockets to host the bacteria. If not treated, it will progress until it has destroyed your gums and bone structure.
Signs of this disease include red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gums that pull away or recede, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, bite changes and sores or puss in your mouth.
If you think you may have gum disease, contact our office. We provide periodontal care to help you get back your oral health.
What is root canal therapy?
If gum disease or infection reaches the inner tissues of your tooth, a root canal treatment is performed to save your tooth and restore your oral health. Our dentists will remove the infection from your tooth pulp, sterilize the tooth canals and fill them with medicated material. The tooth will be capped with a restoration to protect it from reinfection. Root canals have a reputation of being painful, but with today’s techniques and technology, it can be performed with little to no discomfort.
Why do I have had breath?
There are many causes for bad breath (halitosis) including,
- Morning time
- Poor oral hygiene
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Appliances fitting incorrectly
- Dry mouth
- Tobacco products
- Certain medical conditions or illnesses
- Dehydration or hunger
- Certain foods
Make sure you have a good oral hygiene routine, visit our office for oral health care, hydrate well, use mouthwash and avoid tobacco products in order to keep your breath fresh. If your halitosis does not improve after doing the above steps or gets worse, we recommend visiting your physician.
Invisalign® FAQ
What is Invisalign®?
Invisalign therapy consists of clear, plastic aligners worn to straighten your teeth, rather than wires and brackets like traditional braces.
How does Invisalign therapy work?
At your initial consultation, our dentists will use digital technology to recreate your smile. This digital model will be used to custom-make aligners that will gradually straighten your smile. You will wear these aligners 20-22 hours a day and switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Each set will make small adjustments to the positions of your teeth. You will visit our office regularly so we can make sure your treatment is going as planned.
What are the benefits of Invisalign?
Many teenagers and adults prefer Invisalign aligners because they are:
- Discrete and nearly invisible
- Removable, allowing you to brush, floss and eat normally
- Require no brackets or wires
- Custom-made and comfortable
How much does Invisalign treatment cost?
While treatment cost can vary, it is comparable to braces. The exact cost of your treatment will depend on the complexity of your case and how many aligners you will need. Many insurance providers will cover Invisalign, and we also provide financial options to help you pay for treatment if needed.
Is Invisalign treatment painful?
You may feel some discomfort during the first few days of wear while your mouth adjusts, but you should not feel any pain.
How do I take care of my aligners?
We recommend our patients use the Invisalign® cleaning system, but you can also clean your aligners with a toothbrush and lukewarm water. Make sure to never use hot water when cleaning because the plastic will warp. Make sure to also never chew gum, smoke, eat or drink while wearing them as that will cause damage.
What do I do if I lose or break an aligner?
Please contact our office as soon as you can if you lose or break an aligner. We may order you a replacement aligner or you may need to wear a new or old set.
Do I have to wear a retainer after I finish treatment?
Just like traditional braces, you will need to wear a retainer to prevent regression and make your new smile permanent. We will provide you with a retainer and instructions on how to use it and care for it.
Cosmetic FAQ
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry focused on improving and enhancing the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic treatments can include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, smile makeovers and orthodontics.
Am I a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
If you want to enhance the appearance of your smile, you can be a candidate for cosmetic dentistry. However, you need to have good oral health before pursuing cosmetic treatments. Our dentists will examine your smile and discuss appropriate treatment options with you.
What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?
The biggest benefit and main goal of cosmetic procedures is giving you a beautiful smile. If you love your smile, you in turn have more self-confidence. Straightening and fixing your teeth can also make it easier to brush and floss your teeth, giving you better oral health.
Why should I have my teeth whitened professionally?
Professional teeth whitening is faster, safer and a lot more effective than over-the-counter whitening options. In-office teeth whitening takes about an hour to complete while other whitening treatments you can buy take many weeks to show results and may damage your teeth overtime.
Are veneers the only option to transform my smile?
Veneers are not the only option available to you. There is a wide range of cosmetic treatments that can enhance your smile. Our dentists will create a customized treatment plan for you to make sure we reach your smile goals.
Can cosmetic dentistry fix my uneven teeth?
Cosmetic dentistry includes treatments, such as Invisalign® clear aligners, traditional braces and cosmetic shaping, that can fix and straighten your teeth. Minor unevenness and gaps can also be improved with dental veneers and dental bonding.
How will I know which cosmetic treatment I need?
Which cosmetic treatments you need will depend on your smile goals and current oral health. Come into our office for an initial consultation and our dentists will examine your smile and discuss your goals with you. This will help us determine with treatments you need to achieve your dream smile.
How many appointments will I need to achieve my dream smile?
The number of visits will depend on the cosmetic procedures you are undergoing as well as the condition of your teeth. Teeth whitening and dental bonding usually take one appointment and dental veneers usually take two appointments.
Why are my teeth stained and discolored?
There are many factors that play into your smile becoming dull, stained or discolored, such as:
- Age and genetics
- Certain medications
- Smoking and using tobacco
- Consuming staining foods and beverages (tea, coffee, soda, wine, etc.)
- Consuming excessive fluoride (fluorosis)
How long will my results last?
You should be able to enjoy your results for many years if you take good care of your smile. Make sure to visit the dentist for preventive care and maintain good oral hygiene habits. Veneers can last 20 years, and maybe longer if they are well taken care of.
Will my insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Your insurance may or may not cover all or part of cosmetic treatment. It depends on your provider, insurance coverage and out of pocket expenses. If you have coverage, we will make sure to maximize your benefits. Before starting any treatment, we will make sure you know all your treatment costs and payment options.
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