FAQ

Why should I visit the dentist regularly?

Many people choose to visit the dentist only when they have a noticeable dental problem. They may think that they are saving money, but in reality, the treatments required to restore and repair teeth require more money and time than visiting the dentist regularly. Visiting the dentist for routine appointments helps ensure that you receive the preventive care you need to stop issues as early as possible and hopefully prevent them from occurring, to begin with. Our team can monitor your oral health and teach you the best ways to care for your teeth and gums so that they remain healthy. We recommend that you visit our office at least twice a year.

Why is flossing important?

Brushing your teeth cleans the surfaces of the teeth but not the areas between the teeth or below the gumline. Flossing helps ensure that plaque and bacteria are removed from these areas of your mouth before they can damage your teeth.

How often should I brush and floss?

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. It is especially important that you brush before going to sleep. Use an ADA-approved soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth. Floss at least once a day. Our dentist and team also recommend that you use a mouth rinse. Contact us with any questions.

How safe are dental X-rays?

Rest assured that dental X-rays are very safe. Dental X-rays expose you to less radiation than your daily exposure to the sun. Dentistry continues to evolve, and these advances make dental X-rays safer through digital imaging and higher-speed X-rays. Also, by federal law, X-ray machines must be checked for safety and accuracy every two years.

I’m terrified of the dentist — what should I do?
We encourage you to speak with our team. We take your fears and concerns seriously and will do all we can to help you feel more comfortable in our office. There are many options that we can use to help reduce dental fears and anxieties. These strategies include the use of lasers instead of drills for treatment, medications to numb treated areas, and a number of techniques to reduce anxiety and mind or body pain (deep breathing, biofeedback, acupuncture, guided imagery and more). Support groups and dentophobia clinics are also available.

When should my child have their first dental appointment?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should have their first dental appointment about six months after their first tooth erupts and no later than their first birthday. These appointments can help ensure that your child’s oral cavity is growing and developing correctly. They can also help your child become comfortable in the dental office.

When will my baby’s teeth start coming in?
A baby’s teeth begin to develop in the second trimester of pregnancy (about 16 to 20 weeks). The teeth usually begin to break through the gums between 6 and 10 months of age. As soon as there are two adjacent teeth, begin flossing your child’s teeth.

Why are baby teeth important?
Baby teeth, or primary teeth, are imperative in maintaining proper development and good oral health. Your child’s baby teeth assist in:

• Proper chewing, nutrition and digestion
• Proper speech development
• A straighter smile — primary teeth hold the proper places for the permanent teeth
• Excellent oral health

We cannot stress enough how imperative it is that you take proper care of your child’s baby teeth. Contact our office or schedule an appointment if you have any questions.

What is a root canal?
A root canal may be recommended when an injury, infection or decay reaches the inner tissues, or pulp, of the tooth. The infected pulp tissues will first be cleaned from the tooth roots. Then the canals will be sterilized and filled with a medicated material. The tooth is sealed to help prevent any future infection. Advances in dental care have made it possible to perform root canal treatment both comfortably and effectively.

What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, which is also called gum disease, affects the gums and supporting structures of the mouth. Gum disease starts as a bacterial infection of the gums that gradually grows and progresses until it destroys the gums and bone structure. The early stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis, and the more severe, later stage is called periodontitis. Each time you visit our dentist, we will check for periodontal disease.

What causes periodontal disease?
Gum disease is caused by the harmful bacterial in plaque. As plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), the disease progresses in the mouth. The gums begin to separate from the teeth and pockets form, where harmful bacteria can gather. If gum disease is not treated, the condition can become irreversible.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Signs of gum disease include:

• Swollen, red or tender gums
• Pain in the mouth
• Bleeding while eating hard foods, brushing or flossing
• Receding gums
• Separating or loose teeth
• Sores in the mouth
• A change in your bite
• Bad breath that will not go away
• Pus between the gums and teeth
• A change in how your dentures or other removable oral appliances fit

What can I do about bad breath?
Halitosis, or bad breath, can be caused by many things, including:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Morning time
• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Poorly fitted appliances
• Tobacco products
• Dry mouth
• Medical illnesses or conditions
• Missed meals, hunger or dehydration
• Certain foods

Bad breath can be prevented by visiting our dental office regularly, practicing good dental hygiene at home, staying hydrated, using mouth wash and not using tobacco products. If halitosis lingers, we may suggest that you consult your physician to determine if a medical condition is causing your bad breath.

What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth so that you can reach ideal oral function and health. Restorative dentistry also includes restoring the supporting structures of the teeth. Treatments in this field of dentistry include fillings, implants, crowns, dentures, root canal therapy and more.

Why should I replace my old silver fillings?
Dental amalgam consists of a mixture of metals, including tin, silver, mercury and copper. Amalgam has been used as a dental filling material for over 100 years, and some dentists still use this material. However, mercury can be harmful to your health and is released into the body in trace amounts through amalgam (or silver) fillings. In addition, silver fillings often eventually lead to cracks in the teeth.

We may recommend that you replace your silver fillings with composite dental fillings for a number of reasons. Composite dental fillings do not contain mercury. They can help strengthen the tooth structure. Also, composite fillings are more aesthetic because they are tooth colored and can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth.

I have a missing tooth. What are my options for replacing it?
Several options are available for replacing a missing tooth. When you visit Warrenbrand Complete Dentistry, our dentist will first examine your mouth, particularly the area with the missing tooth. Your dental health needs and smile goals will be discussed with you, and we will review your treatment options. A customized treatment plan will be created to restore your tooth and your smile’s appearance. We may discuss tooth replacement options like the following:

• Dental bridges
• Complete or partial dentures
• Dental implants

Why should I have restorative dentistry done instead of having a tooth removed?
We recommend keeping your original teeth whenever possible, as it is usually better for your long-term oral health and function. Dr. Corey Warrenbrand will not suggest tooth extraction unless the tooth is causing damage to your other teeth and dental health. Restoring the tooth can allow you to keep your natural tooth longer and enjoy an attractive smile without needing more expensive or extensive treatments.

What is a dental crown?
A dental crown, which is also called a cap, is dental restoration that covers the entire visible part of the tooth. Dental crowns are often used to preserve a tooth that is too damaged for a dental crown to repair. A crown can restore the shape, appearance and function of a tooth, and protect it from any further damage. Our dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth has been cracked, severely decayed, has a large dental filling or has had root canal therapy.

What is a dental bridge?
Dental bridges are a non-removable (fixed) restoration. They are used to replace one or two lost teeth and are often anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap with dental crowns. A dental bridge can also be held in place with a dental implant. Dental bridges can restore the appearance and function of your smile, as well as your bite.

What is a denture, and how long will it last?
A denture is a dental appliance that replaces missing teeth. A partial denture can replace a few teeth and a complete denture can replace a full arch of teeth. A properly cared for denture can last for over a decade. Keep in mind that dentures may need to be relined, rebased or repaired during that time so they continue to fit and work properly.

Is restorative dentistry available for children?
Yes. If your child’s tooth is damaged because of decay, injury or other factors, our dentist in Sarasota, Florida, will evaluate his or her mouth to see if restorative treatment is needed and which type of treatment is best.

How much will my treatment cost, and will restorative care by covered by my insurance?
The cost of your treatment will depend on the severity of the damage and the type of treatment needed to restore the teeth. We will provide you with a treatment cost estimate before you receive treatment. Many dental insurance plans will cover at least part of the treatment cost, and we will work with you to maximize your insurance benefits. Call our office at 941-925-2225 with any questions.

What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry includes procedures that focus on improving the appearance of your teeth so that you can have a more attractive smile. Cosmetic dentistry includes both preventive and restorative treatments. Some examples of cosmetic dental treatments include:

• Dental veneers
• Teeth whitening
• Dental bonding
• Composite (tooth-colored) dental fillings
• Dental crowns
• Dental bridges
• Orthodontics
• Dental implants
• Smile makeovers

What are the advantages of cosmetic dentistry?
The best advantage of cosmetic dentistry is the end result of a bright, attractive smile. An attractive smile can improve your confidence and can have a positive impact on your well-being. In addition, cosmetic dentistry can improve the health and functionality of your teeth by straightening them and making them easier to care for properly.

Why should I have my teeth whitened in a dental office?
Professional teeth whitening is always more effective, safer and faster than over-the-counter whitening options. For instance, in-office teeth whitening can significantly whiten your smile in as little as an hour. The whitening products purchased at the store can take weeks to have an effect and can damage the teeth in the long run.

Are veneers my only option if I want a smile makeover?
No. There are a variety of treatments available to help improve the appearance of your smile. Each person and their smile are unique, so we will check your mouth carefully, discuss your goals and give you a full range of treatment options. Our dentist and team will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan that may include one or more treatments in order to help you reach your smile goals.

How do I know which cosmetic dental treatment is right for me?
The cosmetic treatments we recommend will depend on the condition of your teeth and your smile goals. During your consultation with our dentist, we will discuss the look you wish to reach, as well as the condition and health of your teeth. This will allow us to determine which treatments will best aid your smile.

How many appointments will need to reach my smile goals?
The number of appointments required will depend on the current condition of your teeth and the treatment or treatments needed to help you meet your goals. For instance, teeth whitening and dental bonding can usually be completed in just one appointment, but porcelain veneers often require two visits. Our dentist will explain your treatment options and work with you to determine which treatments are best suited to help you reach your dream smile.

How long do dental veneers last?
With proper care, dental veneers can last up to 20 years. You can help your veneers last by practicing good dental hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly.

What causes staining and discoloration on my teeth?
There are many circumstances that can cause your teeth to become stained, discolored or dull, including:

• Age
• Genetics
• Staining foods and beverages (tea, coffee, wine, etc.)
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Excessive fluoride consumption (fluorosis)

Is cosmetic dentistry appropriate for children?
Depending on their age and dental development and if there is a problem that needs to be corrected, cosmetic dentistry may or may not be right for children. For instance, if a child or adolescent has severely discolored teeth because of medications or has a fractured tooth because of an accident, he or she may benefit from dental bonding, veneers or teeth whitening. If your child’s mouth is still developing and growing, Dr. Warrenbrand may suggest waiting before providing treatment.

Are my cosmetic treatment results permanent?
As long as you practice proper dental hygiene at home and continue to schedule and keep routine dental appointments, your results should last for years.

Will my insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Coverage and out-of-pocket expenses will vary based on your dental insurance provider. Your treatment may be covered completely, covered partially or not covered at all. If coverage for your cosmetic treatment, we will work with your insurance provider to help you get the maximum benefit. Keep in mind that we also offer a variety of financial options. We will give you a treatment cost estimate before your treatment begins so that you can choose the payment option that best works with your budget.

What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are used to replace both the root and crown of the lost tooth. They are made up of a dental implant post, which is usually made of titanium, and an implant restoration. The implant restoration, which is connected to the top of the implant post, may be a dental crown, bridge or denture. Depending on your needs, implants can be utilized to replace individual teeth, several teeth or an entire arch of teeth.

What are the benefits of a dental implant?
Dental implants are designed restore the beauty and functionality of your smile. In addition, they can restore your ability to speak and chew normally and promote better long-term oral health. If a tooth is lost, the supporting bone tissue begins to deteriorate, which in turn affects the stability and health of the surrounding teeth. Implants restore both the tooth and the root, so they stimulate the supporting bone structure. This helps keep the jawbone healthy so that your teeth remain stable.

How long do dental implants last?
If properly cared for, dental implants can last for a lifetime. Keep your dental implant in good shape by practicing proper dental hygiene at home and visiting our office regularly for preventive care. Keep in mind that even though the implant may remain firmly in place in your jaw, the dental restoration may need to be replaced at some point in the future if it wears out or becomes damaged.

Who is a candidate for implant dentistry?
Anyone who has lost a tooth is a candidate for implant dentistry. Keep in mind that those with a pre-existing dental condition, like periodontal disease or tooth decay, or those in need of a bone graft will need to receive treatment to resolve these issues before a dental implant can be placed.

How should I care for my dental implant?
Dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss at least once daily, and visit our office for routine cleanings and other professional care.

What is the success rate of implants?
The success rate of your dental implant will depend on your oral health and dental hygiene habits. If you are healthy and practice proper dental hygiene, your implant will most likely be successful. General dental implant success rates are about 90% to 95%.

How much will my dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the specific case. The condition of your mouth, any additional treatments needed prior to treatment, the number of dental implants needed and the type of restoration needed to cap the implant are all factors in the cost of treatment. Dr. Warrenbrand will provide you with a cost estimate after your initial consultation. Your dental insurance provider may cover at least part of the cost of the dental implant. We recommend that you check with your provider about your dental benefits.