FAQs

Crowns are used to provide strength and stability to a weakened tooth. If your tooth is fractured or too decayed to support a filling, a crown can provide the support your tooth needs. We offer different options for our crowns to best suit our patients’ needs.

Crowns are also beneficial for patients who have large fillings that are showing signs of breakdown, such as fractures. Cracks around fillings allow bacteria back into your tooth, which could lead to pain and ultimately a root canal or extraction. In these situations, crowns are placed to avoid future problems.

Crowns not only strengthen the tooth but are also very natural in appearance. Patients who have crowns also enjoy a natural-feeling bite as well as restored size and shape of the tooth.

Yes! When our patients come in for a cosmetic treatment consultation, they are naturally interested to see what their results will look like. Though many dentists use imaging software to show patients what their teeth will look like after a cosmetic procedure, we’ve found that it’s not always possible to do what the digital image shows. We want our patients to know exactly what to expect, which is why we use three-dimensional wax models instead.

We will take an impression of your mouth and then create a simulation in wax using whatever treatment(s) you are considering. With this method, you can see a more accurate depiction of your desired results, and you’ll also be able to see what your new smile will look like.

We usually recommend parents bring their children in at three or four years old– as soon as they’ve had some kind of “away from mommy” experience, such as preschool. Of course, if your child is in pain or has a dental problem, we’ll be glad to examine him/her at any age from infant up. In fact, Dr. Azin Tarifard loves spending time with our little ones!

We like to have children come in to “test drive” the dental chair prior to scheduling a full appointment. Depending on your child’s reaction, we can either go ahead and schedule an appointment or suggest holding off a bit longer. The idea is to make the dental office a comfortable place for your child to visit; we do not want to traumatize him or her in any way.

As children’s dentistry providers, we understand that we have the opportunity to instill within your child good oral health care habits and a positive attitude about going to the dentist. Many people develop a fear of going to the dentist during childhood, and this is something we want to avoid.

Making sure your child is comfortable in the dentist’s chair is of the utmost importance to us.

 

We will work with you to maximize your benefits under your specific insurance plan. Our insurance coordinators work with all of your insurance claims and all the ins and outs of the insurance process. Our coordinators will give you the best estimate about what your insurance plan covers prior to your appointment so that you can make the best decisions for you.

For those patients with limited coverage, we offer many financial arrangements to help with any and all of our out-of-pocket burdens.

Please note that while we do accept assignment of benefits from some companies, you will be responsible for any portion of your fee that is not covered. We encourage you to contact our office for specific information about your insurance coverage.

Insurances Accepted

We are available to our patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In the event of a dental emergency, please call us at: 631-983-6665. Follow the prompts. We have a doctor carrying our emergency phone 24/7 for all our patients’ possible needs.

We understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time, including at night or on Sundays after our practice is closed. Often, these situations are very painful and require immediate attention. That’s why one of our partners is always on call and ready to assist you. We’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you are taken care of in a timely manner.

Temporary crowns are placed after a tooth has been prepared and a permanent crown is being created. Wearing your temporary crown is essential to protect the area and keep the surrounding teeth aligned in the meantime. If this temporary crown comes off or breaks, you’ll need to contact our office.

If the crown is intact, you can sometimes place it back on your tooth until you can get to the office. If it is too loose and you are unable to get to our office, temporary cement purchased at your pharmacy can be used to re-cement your temporary. It is very important not to leave the temporary crown off because the tooth will shift, and the permanent crown may not fit.

After you have had a temporary crown placed, we’ll provide you with post-care instructions. Please refer to these for specific information about how to handle your situation.

We are very thorough in our New Patient experience because we want to do everything we can to help you obtain a higher level of oral health while creating an experience that exceeds your expectations. During your first appointment, we will take any necessary X-rays and perform a periodontal exam, oral cancer screening, and intraoral camera examination. In some cases, photographs and models of your teeth may also be necessary. This thorough initial exam allows us to determine any areas in which your health could be improved and create a custom plan for you. We will also give you a tour of our practice, welcoming you to feel at home with us.

For patients who are coming to us for cosmetic consultations, we’ll spend time getting to know you and your desires for your smile. Afterward, we’ll recommend the best possible ways for you to get the smile you’ve always wanted. We’ll explain everything that is involved in your treatment. We make it our priority to give you all the information you need to make the best possible decision for you.

We always take the time to talk with you about your needs, your expectations, your fears and your concerns. We’ll also go over the financial aspect of your treatment so you’re aware of your financial responsibilities and your best options for payment. Then we’ll prioritize treatment in the way that works for your needs and lifestyle.

If you have any special concerns regarding your appointment, we encourage you to contact our office ahead of time. We are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure you have a satisfactory experience during your first appointment with us.

We accept cash, personal check, and all major credit cards.For your convenience, we work with financing companies so that you can choose the option that works best for you. We offer CareCredit, a financing option which allows you to spread your payments out over time (with deferred interest in many cases) as well as Cherry financing which allows for you to have payments deducted directly from your debit card- some options offer no interest programs.

We accept insurance as partial payment towards your dental treatment; you are responsible for any part of your treatment not covered by your insurance.

For patients without insurance and patients who have insurance that we do not participate with, we offer a great in-house discount savings plan. See the Babylon Dental Care Plan page for more details.

When you contact our office, you’ll be able to speak with someone who can walk you through your options for paying for your dental treatment. We want to make this part of the process as easy as possible for our patients. If you have questions about payment plans or insurance, please just ask us!

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We believe in delivering quality dental care for our community while maintaining the highest standards of our profession. What sets us apart is explained in our mission statement: “We care about helping people and we’d like to give them more than they expect… We want patients leaving our office feeling uplifted, as though they’ve had a great experience. Our key words are genuineness, cheerful, gentleness, caring, trustworthy, honesty, respect, efficiency, and follow through.”

In the practical sense, that translates into details like extended hours (we’re here 12 hours a day Monday – Thursday, until 5 p.m. on Friday, and even six hours on Saturdays). We also have a doctor on call at all times, so patients who are experiencing dental emergencies can obtain care even when our office is closed. Our commitment to our patients and treating patients like members of our family truly set us apart.

We also have a wide range of expertise amongst our dentists, which means you can get all your dental care in one office. That improves communication about your treatment if more than one dentist is involved– when you’re getting a dental implant, for example.

There are many other things that set us apart, such as our large hygiene department, which has real expertise in maintaining your soft tissues, and our state-of-the-art equipment, such as digital X-rays. Our office stays current in the dental field, using the latest treatments, equipment, and knowledge to provide our patients with the best care possible.

Both our Great South Bay and Gateway Plaza locations are aesthetically appealing, welcoming, and quite comfortable. If that is not enough, we also offer a “comfort menu” to further enhance your experience.

We invite you to make an appointment and see for yourself what sets us apart from any dental office you’ve visited before.

Bleeding is always a sign of a problem. Gums that are bleeding, swollen, painful, or bright red can signal periodontal (gum) disease.

Gum disease is a serious, chronic condition that should not be taken lightly. It is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but it has also been associated with systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Seeking treatment for your bleeding gums can prevent life-threatening health problems.

Your dentist will craft a personalized digital treatment plan for your Invisalign journey which will map out the precise adjustments needed for your teeth. Using this plan as a guide, your custom Invisalign clear aligners will apply targeted force to specific areas of your teeth at designated times.

Throughout the process, your dentist will closely monitor your progress and ensure that your aligners fit properly, providing guidance and support at every stage.

A dental implant replaces a missing tooth. The implant itself is a titanium post that is inserted into the jaw to replace the tooth root and provide stability. A crown is placed atop the implant to replace the missing tooth, enabling the patient to chew and speak normally.

In addition, dental implants can be used to secure a denture or bridge.

Assessing the current state of your oral health would involve a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This includes looking for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues. We may also evaluate your bite, jaw alignment, and the condition of any existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns.

To maintain optimal oral health, we recommend practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet low in sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as these can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

To prevent tooth decay and cavities between dental visits, we suggest avoiding sugary and acidic foods and beverages, limiting snacking between meals, and practicing good oral hygiene habits. Using fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water can also help strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

We recommend scheduling regular check-ups and hygiene appointments every six months. However, the frequency of your visits may vary based on your individual oral health needs and any ongoing dental issues you may have.

During a routine visit, you can expect necessary diagnostics to be performed. You can expect thorough dental hygiene treatment performed by a dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums. A dental exam conducted by the dentist will include a visual inspection of your mouth, an assessment of your oral health, and may include dental X-rays to detect any hidden dental problems.

In a dental emergency, such as a toothache, broken tooth, or injury to the mouth, it’s essential to contact our office as soon as possible for prompt treatment. We prioritize dental emergencies and will do our best to accommodate you and provide relief from pain or discomfort.

Yes, we treat patients of all ages, from children to adults and seniors. Our goal is to provide comprehensive dental care to patients of every age group and address their individual oral health needs.

The main difference between a dental cleaning and a dental exam is that a cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums, while a dental exam involves a thorough assessment of your oral health, including the detection of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

During a dental exam, you can expect the dentist to visually inspect your mouth, gums, and teeth, check for signs of cavities or gum disease, evaluate your bite and jaw alignment, and may perform dental X-rays to detect any hidden dental problems. Regular dental exams are essential for early detection and prevention of oral health issues.

Dental X-rays are diagnostic tools used to detect hidden dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, infections, and abnormalities in the jawbone or surrounding tissues. They provide valuable information that may not be visible during a visual examination alone and help the dentist diagnose and treat dental issues effectively.

To ensure patient comfort during dental visits, we prioritize creating a welcoming and relaxing environment in our office. Our team is trained to provide gentle and compassionate care. We offer a comfort menu with amenities such as noise canceling headphones, a blanket/pillow, topical numbing gel, magazines, a stress ball, netflix, lip balm, nitrous, music, and dark glasses. Additionally, we use advanced dental technologies and techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure a positive experience for our patients.

During their first dental visit, your child can expect a gentle and welcoming introduction to the dental office environment. Our team will focus on making the experience positive and comfortable for them. The dentist will perform a thorough examination of your child’s mouth, gums, and teeth, and may also discuss oral hygiene habits and diet with you.

To prepare your child for their dental appointment, you can talk to them about what to expect and reassure them that the dentist is there to help keep their teeth healthy and strong. You can also read books or watch videos about visiting the dentist together to help familiarize them with the process. Bringing along a favorite toy or comfort item can also help your child feel more at ease during their appointment.

We recommend that children visit the pediatric dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, the frequency of visits may vary based on your child’s individual oral health needs and any ongoing dental issues they may have.

It’s recommended to bring your child for their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Early dental visits help establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allow for early detection and prevention of dental issues.

Dental x-rays are generally safe for children when appropriate precautions are taken, such as using lead aprons and thyroid collars to minimize radiation exposure. The benefits of dental x-rays in diagnosing dental problems often outweigh the minimal risks associated with radiation exposure.

To prevent cavities and gum disease in your child, it’s important to encourage good oral hygiene habits from an early age. This includes brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an age-appropriate mouthwash if recommended. Additionally, providing a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods and beverages can help protect your child’s teeth and gums.

Certain habits can harm your child’s teeth, such as thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond the age of three, and prolonged use of sippy cups or bottles filled with sugary drinks. Encouraging your child to break these habits early can help prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and malocclusion.

If your child experiences a toothache or tooth sensitivity, it’s important to contact our office as soon as possible for an evaluation. In the meantime, you can help alleviate their discomfort by gently rinsing their mouth with warm water and providing over-the-counter pain relief medication as directed by their pediatrician. Avoid placing aspirin directly on their gums or teeth, as this can cause burns.

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. These aligners are custom-made for each patient based on digital impressions and treatment plans created by the dentist or orthodontist.

The aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable plastic material that fits snugly over the teeth and gradually applies gentle pressure to shift them into the desired position. Patients wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks before progressing to the next set in the series, gradually moving their teeth closer to the desired final position.

With our Whitening For Life program, we offer take-home whitening kits that allow patients to touch up their results at home. These kits contain custom-fitted trays and a milder concentration of bleaching gel compared to in-office treatments. We will provide instructions on how to safely use the kit for touch-up purposes.

Some benefits of Invisalign compared to traditional braces include:

1. Discreet appearance: Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible when worn, making them a more aesthetically pleasing option compared to metal braces.
2. Removability: Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene and fewer dietary restrictions.
3. Comfort: The smooth plastic material of Invisalign aligners is more comfortable than the brackets and wires of traditional braces, reducing the likelihood of irritation to the gums and cheeks.
4. Convenience: Invisalign treatment typically requires fewer office visits and adjustments compared to traditional braces, making it a convenient option for patients with busy schedules.

Determining if you are a candidate for Invisalign involves a comprehensive evaluation by your dentist or orthodontist. They will assess your dental and orthodontic needs, including the severity of your misalignment or bite issues, and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you.

There are typically no dietary restrictions with Invisalign because the aligners are removable. However, it’s important to remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent damage to the aligners and maintain proper oral hygiene.

Patients are typically instructed to wear their Invisalign aligners for 23 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear is essential for achieving optimal results within the planned treatment timeline.

Invisalign aligners may temporarily affect speech or cause a slight lisp for some patients during the initial adjustment period. However, most patients adapt quickly to wearing the aligners and speech issues typically resolve within a few days to a week.

Whether Invisalign treatment is covered by dental insurance depends on your specific insurance plan and coverage. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of Invisalign treatment, while others may not cover it at all. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

After completing Invisalign treatment, patients may be prescribed retainers to help maintain the alignment of their teeth. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also recommended to ensure the long-term success of treatment and maintain good oral health.

Before undergoing teeth whitening, your dentist will assess the health of your teeth and gums to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Generally, individuals with healthy teeth and gums are good candidates for teeth whitening. However, certain dental conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, or dental restorations may affect your candidacy.

Teeth whitening is considered safe when performed under the supervision of a dental professional. However, some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own after treatment.

Teeth whitening works by using bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stains and discoloration on the surface of the teeth. These bleaching agents penetrate the enamel and oxidize the pigmented molecules, resulting in a whiter and brighter smile.

When performed by a dental professional, teeth whitening should not damage enamel or existing dental restorations such as fillings or crowns. However, it’s essential to consult with your dentist before undergoing treatment to ensure that your dental restorations are in good condition and will not be affected by the whitening process.

With our Whitening For Life program, we offer take-home whitening kits that allow patients to touch up their results at home. These kits contain custom-fitted trays and a milder concentration of bleaching gel compared to in-office treatments. We will provide instructions on how to safely use the kit for touch-up purposes.

After teeth whitening, it’s advisable to avoid consuming foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits to prolong the results of teeth whitening.

In most cases, teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not typically covered by dental insurance. However, some dental insurance plans may offer coverage for teeth whitening if it is deemed medically necessary due to certain dental conditions or discoloration caused by trauma or medication. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

Your dentist will assess your oral health, dental history, and the condition of your teeth to determine if you are a suitable candidate for veneers. Generally, candidates for veneers have healthy teeth and gums, but may have issues such as discoloration, minor chips or cracks, gaps between teeth, or minor misalignment that they wish to address.

Dental veneers can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. On average, veneers can last between 10 to 15 years or longer. They do not require special care beyond regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. However, it’s essential to avoid habits such as biting on hard objects or using teeth as tools to prevent damage to the veneers.

Modern dental veneers are designed to look natural and blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. Your dentist will work with you to choose the shade and shape of the veneers that best match your natural teeth and complement your smile.

Dental veneers are not considered reversible, as a small amount of enamel must be removed from the teeth to accommodate the veneers. However, they can be removed and replaced if necessary, although this may require additional dental work and adjustment.

When properly placed by a skilled dentist, dental veneers should not significantly affect your bite or speech. Your dentist will ensure that the veneers are properly aligned and fitted to your teeth to maintain proper bite function and speech articulation.

Dental veneers can be used to improve the appearance of crooked teeth or close small gaps between teeth. However, severe misalignment or gaps may require orthodontic treatment for optimal results.

In most cases, dental veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure and are not typically covered by dental insurance. However, if veneers are deemed medically necessary to restore the function of damaged teeth, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

ICON resin infiltration is generally considered to be a minimally invasive and painless procedure. Local anesthesia is typically not required, and most patients report minimal discomfort during the treatment process. However, some individuals may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, which usually resolves shortly after the procedure.

The success rate of ICON resin infiltration varies depending on factors such as the extent of enamel lesions and the skill of the dentist performing the procedure. However, clinical studies have shown that ICON can effectively halt the progression of early-stage caries lesions and improve the appearance of white spot lesions on the teeth. When performed by a trained professional and combined with appropriate oral hygiene measures, ICON resin infiltration can achieve long-lasting results.

ICON resin infiltration is considered to be a safe and low-risk procedure. However, as with any dental treatment, there are potential risks and side effects to consider. These may include temporary tooth sensitivity, allergic reactions to the materials used, or incomplete resolution of the white spot lesions. It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions with your dentist before undergoing ICON resin infiltration.

Whether ICON resin infiltration is covered by dental insurance depends on your specific insurance plan and coverage. In many cases, dental insurance plans may not cover cosmetic procedures such as resin infiltration for white spot lesions. However, if the procedure is deemed medically necessary to prevent further decay or restore the integrity of the tooth enamel, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.

Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental problems related to the teeth, gums, and oral tissues. It aims to restore the function, aesthetics, and health of the mouth by repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth and supporting structures.

Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, including the condition of your teeth, gums, and supporting structures, to determine if you are a candidate for restorative dentistry. Candidates typically include individuals with cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, missing teeth, damaged teeth, or other dental issues that require treatment to restore function and aesthetics.

Restorative dentistry can help correct a wide range of dental issues, including cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, missing teeth, cracked or fractured teeth, worn-down teeth, misaligned teeth, bite problems, and dental trauma. It encompasses procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges, dental implants, dentures, root canals, and periodontal treatments.

During a consultation for restorative dentistry, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your mouth, including dental X-rays and possibly other diagnostic tests. They will discuss your dental concerns, medical history, and treatment goals with you, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your dentist will also explain the recommended procedures, expected outcomes, and any associated costs or risks.

After undergoing restorative dentistry procedures, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and long-term success. This will include maintaining good oral hygiene habits, avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage dental restorations, attending follow-up appointments as recommended, and using any prescribed medications or oral care products. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also essential for monitoring the health of your restored teeth and preventing future dental issues.

Your dentist will evaluate several factors to determine if you are a candidate for sedation dentistry, including your medical history, current health status, anxiety level, and the complexity of the dental procedure. Candidates for sedation dentistry typically include individuals with dental phobia or anxiety, those undergoing lengthy or invasive dental procedures, or individuals with special needs that may make it difficult to tolerate dental treatment.

When administered by a qualified and experienced dental professional, sedation dentistry is considered safe. Before undergoing sedation, your dentist will review your medical history, assess your overall health, and discuss any potential risks or complications with you. They will also monitor you closely throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.

While sedation dentistry is generally safe, some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or grogginess after the procedure. These side effects typically subside shortly after the sedative wears off, but it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions and avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you fully recover.

The duration of sedation effects depends on the type and dosage of sedative used, as well as individual factors such as metabolism and overall health. In most cases, the effects of sedation wear off within a few hours after the procedure, although some individuals may experience lingering drowsiness or grogginess.

For your safety, it’s recommended to have a responsible adult accompany you to your appointment if you will be undergoing sedation dentistry. The sedative effects can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, so having someone available to drive you home is essential.

Sedation Dentistry is an outside source. The patient will pay the anesthesiologist directly.

A dental emergency is any situation involving the teeth, gums, or oral tissues that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding, prevent further damage, or save a tooth. Common dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out or fractured teeth, abscesses or infections, severe gum swelling or bleeding, broken dental restorations (such as crowns or fillings), and trauma to the mouth or jaw.

In a dental emergency, it’s essential to remain calm and take prompt action to alleviate pain and prevent further damage. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to the mouth, contact your dentist immediately for guidance and to schedule an emergency appointment. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and take over-the-counter pain medication as directed.

During an emergency dental visit, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and oral tissues to assess the extent of the injury or problem. Your dentist may take dental X-rays to evaluate the underlying structures and determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the nature of the emergency, treatment options may include pain management, tooth repositioning or stabilization, dental repair or restoration, or referral to a specialist for further care. Your dentist will explain the recommended treatment plan, address any concerns or questions you may have, and provide instructions for post-treatment care and follow-up.

Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits, including:

• Correcting misaligned teeth for a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile.
• Improving bite function, which can alleviate issues such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems.
• Reducing the risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Enhancing overall oral health and self-confidence.

Your orthodontist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment to determine if you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment. Factors such as the severity of misalignment, bite issues, oral health status, and your treatment goals will be considered in determining the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends patients be screened at 7 years old. This early intervention ensures a better experience for the patient and leads to less trauma down the road, as it avoids issues that may arise due to orthodontic issues.

Whether orthodontic treatment is covered by insurance depends on your specific insurance plan and coverage. In many cases, dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatment, particularly for children and adolescents. However, coverage amounts, limitations, and age restrictions may vary. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.

During your initial orthodontic consultation, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment. They may take dental X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth to develop a personalized treatment plan. Your orthodontist will discuss your orthodontic concerns, treatment options, expected outcomes, and any questions or concerns you may have about the process.

Neglecting dental hygiene can lead to a variety of oral health problems, including:

• Tooth decay (cavities) caused by plaque buildup and acid erosion.
• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums.
• Bad breath (halitosis) caused by bacteria in the mouth.
• Tooth loss and bone deterioration due to untreated gum disease.
• Oral infections and abscesses, which can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
• Increased risk of systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

Yes, poor dental hygiene can have a significant impact on your overall health. Oral health problems such as gum disease have been linked to systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, and decreased quality of life.

You can prevent cavities and gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene habits, including:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth.
• Eating a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
• Limiting snacking between meals.
• Avoiding tobacco products, which can contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.
• Regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor and maintain oral health.

Professional dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are essential for maintaining good oral health. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, dental cleanings include polishing to remove surface stains and promote a brighter smile. Regular dental cleanings also provide an opportunity for the dentist to assess your oral health and detect any early signs of dental problems.

Diet plays a crucial role in dental hygiene because the foods and beverages we consume can directly impact the health of our teeth and gums. Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide essential nutrients that support oral health. On the other hand, frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. It’s important to limit sugary snacks and beverages, avoid acidic foods that erode tooth enamel, and maintain a balanced diet for optimal dental hygiene.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how to properly care for your braces or orthodontic appliances, including brushing and flossing techniques, using interdental brushes or floss threaders to clean around wires and brackets, and avoiding foods that can damage braces. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important for monitoring your oral health and adjusting your orthodontic treatment as needed.

The frequency of orthodontic visits during treatment varies depending on the type of treatment and individual treatment needs. In general, patients typically visit the orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Your orthodontist will provide specific guidance on scheduling follow-up appointments based on your treatment plan and progress.

Yes, orthodontic treatment is specifically designed to improve bite function and jaw alignment by gradually repositioning the teeth and jaws into proper alignment. By correcting misalignment and bite issues, orthodontic treatment can alleviate symptoms such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems, and improve overall oral health and function.