ASK DR. WAYMAN

At what age should I start bringing my child to see the dentist?

We recommend around the age of 2 years old. Visiting the dentist from a young age will help your child become comfortable with his or her dentist, and will also make your child much more conscious of their teeth and how to properly clean them. It also establishes a good habit of regular dental check-ups. By going to the dentist around the age of two, the dentist has a chance to look for any early problems with your child’s teeth.

 

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Our office accepts nearly all of the major insurance plans. We’re also very familiar in the latest coverage trends, and are more than happy to discuss the details of your plan with you before you undergo any treatments.

 

Do you accept referrals?

We are happy to accept referrals from other dental offices as well as from our patients to their family and friends. We are grateful for your confidence in us and consider your referrals as the highest complement.

 

How do I know when it’s time for a checkup?

The standard recommendation is to visit your dentist twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. This frequency level works well for most people, although some people with gum disease, a genetic predisposition for plaque build-up or cavities, or a weakened immune system might need to visit the dentist more frequently for optimal care.

 

How does RiverSprings Dental keep up-to-date on all the current techniques and materials?

We subscribes to the latest industry journals to stay informed on all the current research and development in the dental industry. In addition to the journal subscriptions we are involved in continuing education on a regular basis. As a team and as individuals, our office makes it a priority to be familiar with the latest techniques and materials available.

 

I really don’t like visiting the dentist. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?

We understand many people feel uneasy about having their teeth worked on. Our goal is to create a relaxing atmosphere to help relieve your anxiety. For entertainment and distraction, we have special headphones, television and music available in all treatment rooms. And for the more complex procedures, we also offer laughing gas and local anesthesia to keep you comfortable and relaxed.

 

Should I have my black mercury fillings replaced?

Replacing your mercury fillings is always a good idea. Bonded resin fillings are far superior to the once used mercury fillings. They are actually bonded to the tooth and allow for a very minimal chance of recurrent decay. Because amalgams (mercury fillings) are not a bonded restoration, teeth almost always develop new decay. The technology of bonding resins has replaced the way that amalgams were packed into the tooth. The old process creates a lot of pressure on the tooth which could cause fractures, which lead to crowns and in some cases, root canals. Our bonded restorations actually preserve the tooth structure and become part of the tooth. (With Dr. Wayman’s artistic skill, it is very likely that the restoration will be undetected by the naked eye.) We believe in early prevention and feel it is in our patients’ best interest to have only bonded restorations.

 

What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

Our entire team is well trained in sterilization techniques designed to ensure patient safety. This goes beyond wearing gloves and facemasks. These techniques include a state-of-the-art sanitation center and a water filtration system guaranteeing a fresh water source for each patient.

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