Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule preventive dental checkups and cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends that patients of all ages, from age three to 103, visit the dentist twice a year for routine checkups and professional cleanings. Biannual preventive visits at our Evergreen, CO office allow our hygienists to remove plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing and flossing can't reach, while our dentists screen for early signs of tooth decay, periodontal infection, failing restorations, and oral cancer.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
Oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and non-invasive. The dentist will visually and physically examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and facial tissues, looking for lumps, bumps, rough patches, discoloration, sores, or other irregularities. If we detect anything suspicious, we'll discuss the next steps right away, which may include a biopsy or referral to a specialist.
Are fluoride treatments necessary for adults, or just for children?
While fluoride treatments are commonly associated with pediatric dentistry, adults benefit from professional fluoride applications too. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in foods, oral hygiene products, and local water sources that strengthens tooth enamel and shields it from harmful oral bacteria. Adults with dry mouth, receding gums, a history of cavities, weakened enamel, orthodontic appliances, or crowns and bridges are especially good candidates for topical fluoride.
How do I know if I need a nightguard for bruxism or TMJ/TMD?
Common signs that you may benefit from a nightguard include waking up with jaw soreness, headaches, or earaches, noticing worn or flattened tooth surfaces, increased tooth sensitivity, or hearing a clicking or popping sound when you open and close your mouth. These symptoms are often linked to TMJ/TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), a condition caused by injury, repeated stress, or misalignment of the jaw joint.
Which at-home dental hygiene products does Evergreen Dental Group recommend?
Walking down the oral care aisle can be overwhelming with so many toothpastes, mouthwashes, and brushes to choose from. To simplify the process, we offer prescription-strength products in our Evergreen, CO office that provide superior protection compared to most over-the-counter options. We're happy to recommend specific products based on your unique oral health needs at your next appointment.
Does dental insurance cover preventive dentistry services?
Most dental insurance plans cover the majority, often 100% of preventive services including routine checkups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and oral cancer screenings, since insurance companies recognize that prevention is far less expensive than restorative treatment. For patients without insurance, Evergreen Dental Group offers an in-house discount plan that makes preventive care affordable for individuals and families. Our team is happy to verify your benefits before your visit and discuss financing options so cost never stands between you and a healthy smile.
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive cleaning recommended every six months for patients with healthy gums. Our hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains from above the gumline. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure recommended for patients showing signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum pockets deeper than four millimeters, or bone loss.