Frequently Asked Questions
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We’ve answered some of the questions patients ask us most often about dental care, appointments, insurance, emergencies, and our Bloomfield dental office.
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For many patients, we recommend a dental exam and professional cleaning approximately every six months. However, the right schedule depends on your individual oral health, gum health, medical history, and risk for dental problems. Dr. Michael Panitch can recommend a schedule that makes sense for you.
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Not necessarily. The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your age, oral health, dental history, symptoms, and risk for cavities or other problems. We use X-rays when they provide information that helps us evaluate areas that cannot be fully seen during a regular dental examination.
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A cavity may cause tooth sensitivity, discomfort when eating something sweet, hot or cold, pain when biting, or a visible dark spot or hole in a tooth. However, cavities can also develop without noticeable symptoms, which is one reason regular dental exams are important.
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Occasional irritation can occur, but persistent bleeding can be a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. If your gums regularly bleed, feel swollen or tender, or appear to be receding, schedule a dental evaluation so we can determine the cause.
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Yes. Family Dental Associates of Brookdale provides preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental care for patients of different ages and stages of life. Our goal is to make it convenient for families in Bloomfield and the surrounding area to receive ongoing dental care in one practice.
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A routine visit typically includes an examination of your teeth and gums, an evaluation for signs of decay or other oral health concerns, and a professional dental cleaning when appropriate. X-rays may also be recommended based on your individual needs.
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Good cavity prevention starts with brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, limiting frequent sugary snacks and drinks, and receiving routine professional dental care. We can also recommend preventive treatments based on your individual risk for tooth decay.
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Yes. Family Dental Associates of Brookdale offers cosmetic dental services designed to improve the appearance of your smile. Depending on your goals, treatment options may include [LINK: Teeth Whitening], [LINK: Veneers], bonding or other cosmetic treatments available through the practice.
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The best whitening option depends on the type of discoloration you have, the condition of your teeth and whether you have existing dental restorations. Professional dental whitening can provide more predictable results than many over-the-counter products. We can help determine which approach is appropriate for your smile.
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Often, yes. Depending on the location and extent of the damage, options may include dental bonding, veneers, crowns or another restorative or cosmetic treatment. An examination is the best way to determine which option will produce a natural-looking and durable result.