FrequentlyAskedQuestions
Is bleaching covered by my insurance?
No. Cosmetic procedures in general are not covered by most insurance companies. Any procedure which is elective by a patient for cosmetic purposes is included here. For example, porcelain veneers to close a "gap" or diastema is a cosmetic procedure. However, the same veneers used to restore a broken tooth would be a covered expense.
What is gum disease and how do I know if I have it?
Gum disease is an infection in the gums and can range from mild to severe. It is correctly called either gingivitis or periodontitis. The milder gingivitis is confined to the gums whereas periodontitis starts to attack the bone which holds our teeth in our mouth. If you have bad breath, bleed when you brush or floss or have loose/shifting teeth, then you have some degree of gum disease.
What causes the infection?
Gum disease and tooth decay are both caused by "plaque". Plaque is an invisible, sticky film packed with bacteria that forms on the teeth. The bacteria break down sugar into acid from the foods we eat. This is what is harmful to our gums and teeth. When plaque remains on our teeth long enough (sometimes just hours) it hardens into what is correctly called calculus.
I have a groove at the gumline of some teeth. They're also sensitive to hot and cold. What can I do?
These grooves, usually know as toothbrush abrasion, are caused by bad brushing habits. A SOFT bristle toothbrush should ALWAYS be used to clean our teeth. Otherwise, we remove the protective enamel covering leaving a sensitive dentin tooth surface exposed. With proper brushing and a desensitizing toothpaste, the sensitivity should go away in time. If that doesn't work, you should see a dentist.
What can I do if I am unhappy with my dental treatment?
Good question. First of all, talk to your dentist. If communication or trust breaks down with your dentist, then I strongly recommend the Peer Review process offered by all California Dental Association Societies. A dentist must be a member of the CDA , as I am, for the process to work. All CDA dentists, by virtue of membership, have agreed to be bound by peer review decisions The following is a link to the CDA site for Peer Review instructions: