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Frequently Asked Questions
Levy Dental Arts
We've compiled a list below of the most common dental-related questions we receive. If you have a concern not addressed here please let us know. We are always looking to improve our Q&A and make it more helpful.

First Appointment FAQs

  • Do I need to arrive early for my first appointment? +
    Yes. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out any remaining patient forms.
  • What should I do if I require premedication? +
    Please be sure to request a prescription prior to your appointment, or if you are unsure, contact us and we can help.
  • What do I need to bring to my first appointment? +

    Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:
    • Patient Information Form
    • Dental Insurance Card (if applicable)
    • Identification such as Driver's License, Military ID or State ID
    • Patient Health History Form
    • HIPAA Consent Form
    • Patient Authorization Form
    • Covid Authorization Form

    All forms can be downloaded from the patient forms section of this website.

  • How long will my first appointment last? +
    It varies, but please plan on 1 to 1.5 hours for the first visit.

General Dentistry FAQs

  • Why should I go to the dentist regularly? +

    Many people do not see a dentist regularly. They only go when they have an issue. This is known as "crisis treatment" versus "preventive treatment." While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time. This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process. An example is tooth decay. It is typical to hear, "Nothing hurts... I don't have any problems."

    Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a huge cavity who has never felt a thing. The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms. This early detection can help you prevent root canal treatment.

  • Why should I floss, isn't brushing enough? +

    Flossing reduces the number of bacteria in your mouth. There are millions of these microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque, which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can't get to. That's the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually, it hardens into tartar. Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist can remove tartar.

    Ask your dentist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment.

  • How can I prevent cavities? +

    Always spend two to three minutes brushing your teeth. It takes that long to get rid of the bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. Do not brush too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque. Floss at least once a day. Flossing is the only way to get bacteria from between your teeth.

    Watch the sugar you eat. There is sugar in candy, fruits, crackers, and chips. These are the foods that the bacteria in your mouth like best. Be mindful of foods like raisins and peanut butter that stick to your teeth. They can provide a constant supply for the bacteria eating into your teeth. Try to minimize the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and brush your teeth afterward.

    If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water - which can help to remove food from your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Chewing escalates the flow of your saliva, which acts as a natural plaque-fighting substance. And do not forget your regular dental visits. Good dental habits will go a long way toward a no-cavity visit.

  • Why does the dentist take X-rays? +

    Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
    • small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
    • infections in the bone
    • periodontal (gum) disease
    • abscesses or cysts
    • developmental abnormalities
    • some types of tumors

    Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money, and often unnecessary discomfort. X-rays can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, X-rays may even help save your life. Our dentists will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present in development. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.

  • What is fluoride, and why is it important to dental health? +

    Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and in water. Some natural sources of fluoride are brewed tea, canned fish, cooked kale and spinach, apples, and skim milk. Some city water contains fluoride, so by drinking tap water, you will acquire fluoride. If drinking water does not have fluoride, supplements are available.

    The lack of exposure to fluoride places individuals of any age at risk for dental decay. Fluoride is important to dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by making your tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria in your mouth.

    Studies have shown that children who consumed fluoridated water from birth had less dental decay. Fluoride can reverse early decay and help prevent osteoporosis, a disease that causes degenerative bone loss. Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about whether you're getting the daily amount of fluoride you need.

  • What are cavity-fighting sealants? +

    The American Dental Association cites sealants as an effective weapon in the arsenal against tooth decay. Sealants are a thin coating painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting your teeth against decay-causing bacteria.

    Sealants have proven effective with both adults and children, but are most commonly used with children. Even though sealants are about half the cost of fillings, only a small percentage of school-aged children have sealants on their permanent teeth. Ask your dentist whether sealants are a good choice for you or your children.

Additional FAQs

  • I knocked out a tooth, can it be saved? +

    Oral injuries are often painful and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. If you have knocked out a tooth, these tips may be able to save it:
    • Rinse, do not scrub, the tooth to remove dirt or debris
    • Place the clean tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum or under your tongue
    • Do not attempt to replace the tooth into the socket as this could cause further damage
    • Get to the dentist. Successful re-implantation is possible only when treatment is performed promptly
    • If it is not possible to store the tooth in the mouth of the injured person, wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk

  • What can I do about sensitive teeth? +

    Sensitivity toothpaste, which contains strontium chloride or potassium nitrate are very effective in treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use, you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic foods such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, as well as tea and soda, can increase tooth sensitivity, and work against sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by brushing gently and using desensitizing toothpaste, see your dentist. There are special compounds that can be applied in-office to the roots of your tooth to reduce - if not eliminate - the sensitivity. High-fluoride containing home care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity.

    Ask the friendly staff at Mountain Dental for more information on sensitive teeth.

  • What causes morning breath? +

    When you are asleep, production in your mouth decreases. Since your saliva is the mouth's natural mouthwash, most people experience morning breath. Bacteria found on teeth in the crevices and on the taste buds of the tongue, break down the food particles, which produce sulfur compounds. It is these sulfur compounds that give our breath a bad odor. During desk, your saliva helps to wash away bacteria and food particles. Your saliva also helps to dissolve the foul-smelling sulfur compounds.

    Chronic, long-term mouth odor can be a sign of more serious illness. See your dentist if this is a concern.

  • What is periodontal disease? +

    Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which, if left untreated, can cause permanent jaw bone destruction and possible tooth loss. Untreated, periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, low birth weight babies, pre-term delivery, respiratory disease, and prostate cancer. An advanced stage of periodontal disease exhibits inflamed gums pulling away from your bone and teeth. Other signs of periodontal disease include:
    • Bad breath
    • Red or swollen gums
    • Loose teeth or teeth that have moved
    • Sensitive teeth
    • Pus coming from around the teeth
    • Pain when chewing
    • Tender gums
    • Bleeding gums

    Treatment of early periodontal disease can be performed in-office. However, advanced stages may require surgery. Periodontal disease can be prevented and treated successfully by seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly and following recommended care plans.

 

  • How long will the results of teeth whitening last? +

    Like other investments, if you whiten your teeth, the length of time you can expect it to last will vary. If you smoke, drink red wine or coffee, or consume other acid-containing foods, your bright smile may begin to yellow more quickly than you expect. In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.

    Ask the experienced staff at Mountain Dental about the long-term benefits of teeth whitening.

  • What causes canker sores? +

    The exact cause of canker sores is unknown. Some factors may include genetics, allergies, stress, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Trauma to the inside of the mouth can result in the development of canker sores. Ill-fitting dentures or braces, toothbrush trauma from brushing too hard, or biting your cheek, may produce canker sores. Certain foods may also be a factor. Citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables can trigger a canker sore or make the problem worse. Foods like chips, pretzels, and hard candies have sharp edges that can nick and injure the soft tissue of the mouth.

    To treat a canker sore, rinse your mouth with antimicrobial mouthwash or warm water and salt. Over the counter, treatments are also available. If the canker sore is present longer than two weeks, see your Mountain Dental dentist.

  • Do whitening toothpaste work? +

    Commercial whitening toothpaste vary greatly in their ability to whiten teeth. They work by removing surface stains from the teeth with the use of mild abrasives. However, unlike professional whitening, some whitening toothpaste does not alter the natural color of the teeth. Toothpaste that are effective in removing stains can also destroy tooth enamel in the process. These toothpaste use harsh abrasives. With repeated use, harsh abrasives begin to damage tooth enamel and can contribute to increased tooth sensitivity. If you would like to try a whitening toothpaste, consult with your dentist first.

  • What should I do about bleeding gums? +

    People often respond to bleeding gums with the wrong method of treatment. Usually, gums that bleed are a symptom of the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. But often, people stop brushing as frequently and effectively because it may be painful, or it may cause the gums to bleed again. However, when gums are inflamed, brushing could help reduce the inflammation. More importantly, you should see your dentist to have a periodontal screening and recording performed in order to determine the level of disease present and the best treatment course to pursue.

    It is also worth noting that chronic dental pain and discomfort are obvious signs of a problem. Over-the-counter drugs may provide some temporary relief. These medications usually only mask the existence of a problem and should be taken on a temporary basis.

    It is important to see your dentist as soon as possible if your gums begin to bleed.

Why a white smile should also be a healthy smile

A straight and white smile is becoming more sought after than ever before. This mindset began with the ‘Hollywood smile’ when we first started to develop an interest in mimicking the results of celebrity cosmetics. For many at the time, the riches of these stars along with the price of cosmetic dentistry put such procedures out of reach. But much has changed.

Today, the price of cosmetic dentistry, like tooth whitening and adult orthodontics have become far more affordable and accessible. It means today’s Hollywood smile is now the ‘Love Island smile’. As a reality show, this creates an image that cosmetic dentistry is obtainable and as ‘normal’ as visiting the hairdresser or barber. More of us are taking an interest in our own smile and searching for ways to improve it. This is an extremely positive attitude. However, while changing the appearance of our teeth sits high on many people’s wish lists, it is important to remember the most important thing – the health of our smile.

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Another Benefit for Red Wine: It Can Help Protect Your Teeth

 

Researchers say polyphenols in red wine can help prevent certain bacteria from sticking to your teeth.

Now, researchers say they have uncovered more benefits of the extracts in red wine. They may, in fact, be good for your teeth.

But before you grab that bottle of burgundy, take a closer look at the science. A new study has concluded that red wine polyphenols, as well as red wine and grape seed extracts, may lower the ability of bad bacteria to stick to teeth. These bacteria can cause plaque, cavities, and gum disease.

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8 Surprising Foods Your Dentist Won’t Eat

 

While it may be obvious that certain foods and drinks are bad for your teeth, like candy and soda, there are other less obvious options that can also be harmful to your oral health. 

Although some might advise avoiding these problem foods altogether, dentists generally argue in favor of moderation and good oral hygiene.

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