Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Melbourne, FL

Are dental implants covered by dental insurance?

Unfortunately, it’s not common for dental insurance plans to cover the cost of implants because they consider them to be a “cosmetic” treatment. However, more and more plans are beginning to offer benefits for this procedure, so it’s best to contact your provider directly and ask. In some cases, patients are able to receive benefits for a portion of the process, like their restorations, but not the surgery itself.

What should I do if my child keeps getting cavities?

Children are often more susceptible to getting cavities because they’re still learning how to properly care for their smiles. Fortunately, if you’re concerned about decay taking over their priceless smiles, we offer non-invasive, clear protective shields that we can paint over their teeth called dental sealants. They only take a moment to apply, but they can help protect their pearly whites from plaque and food debris accumulation.

Is it bad if my gums bleed whenever I brush or floss?

Many people don’t think anything of bleeding gums when they brush or floss their teeth, but the truth is that this is one of the first signs of the earliest stage of gum disease, called gingivitis. We recommend maintaining a good at-home oral hygiene routine and visiting us for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning if you’re due for one. Dr. Rowley will examine your gums and let you know if gum disease treatment is necessary to keep them healthy and ward off infection.

How long do teeth whitening results last?

While store-bought teeth whitening results may last a few weeks at most, professional treatment yields much more transformative results that could last as long as a year with proper maintenance.

What’s the difference between dentures and dental implants?

Traditional dentures are secured to the gumline with natural suction. While they offer a secure fit, they only restore the aesthetic portion of your smile, or your visible teeth. Dental implants are able to offer both aesthetic and functional benefits by replacing the missing roots of the teeth as well as the surfaces of them that lie above the gumline. Not only can this prevent jawbone erosion over time, but it also allows for improved eating and speaking abilities.

How do I know if I need a dental crown?

We often recommend dental crowns for teeth that have a large filling, are severely misshapen, or that have been treated with root canal therapy and need a little extra protection and support. Dr. Rowley can craft these restorations from a variety of durable materials, including porcelain, zirconia, ceramic, and gold.

I need to straighten my teeth but don’t want metal braces. Is there a better alternative?

Many people put off addressing misaligned and crowded teeth throughout their life because they don’t want to have to commit to wearing metal braces for a year or more. Fortunately, that’s no longer the only treatment option thanks to modern Invisalign clear aligners. These are discreet and convenient, allowing you to eat what you want throughout your treatment and remain incognito as you straighten your grin with virtually unnoticeable clear trays.