FAQs

Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining oral health. These appointments allow for early detection of issues such as tooth decay, bone deterioration, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early diagnosis often leads to more cost-effective and less invasive treatments. Biannual checkups and cleanings increase the likelihood of identifying potential problems early. Additionally, these visits help our dental team at Callaway Family Dental become familiar with your oral health, enabling us to provide personalized advice on oral hygiene practices, diet, and lifestyle changes to support your overall wellness.

For optimal oral health, we recommend brushing twice daily and flossing once per day, in line with American Dental Association guidelines. Use ADA-approved toothpaste and toothbrushes, ensuring you clean all tooth surfaces, the roof of your mouth, and your tongue. A thorough brushing should take about two minutes. Flossing, ideally performed before bedtime, is essential for cleaning between teeth and just below the gum line, areas that brushing alone cannot effectively reach.

Regular dental cleanings are essential for preventing oral diseases caused by plaque and tartar buildup, which contribute to periodontal disease. Even with excellent home oral care, professional cleanings are necessary as they involve specialized instruments for tartar removal. These appointments also allow our team to monitor your oral health, measure periodontal pockets, and check for signs of tooth wear and oral cancer. The frequency of cleanings may vary based on individual needs, but typically, biannual visits are recommended.

A dental implant is a prosthetic device designed to replace the root of a missing tooth. Constructed from biocompatible materials, it is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant, securing it in place. Once stable, the implant serves as a foundation for attaching restorations or prosthetics, completing the tooth replacement process. This approach provides a durable base for replacement teeth, promoting optimal oral function and health.

A fixed hybrid denture is an advanced tooth replacement solution that combines custom-made dentures with dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, hybrid dentures are anchored to implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This fixed approach offers enhanced stability, preventing movement during speech and eating. Additionally, the implants help maintain facial structure by slowing bone loss. Hybrid dentures are permanently fixed, simplifying maintenance as they don't require removal for cleaning or soaking.

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment system utilizing clear, plastic aligners worn over the teeth. These custom-made aligners apply consistent pressure to gradually shift teeth into desired positions. Patients wear each set of aligners for approximately 22 hours daily, changing to a new set every two weeks. As treatment progresses, patients observe noticeable improvements in tooth alignment. Invisalign can effectively address various orthodontic issues, including rotated, crowded, overlapped, and gapped teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses treatments aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appearance of teeth to create an attractive, healthy-looking smile. While some procedures overlap with restorative dentistry, the primary focus of cosmetic dentistry is to address and improve dental imperfections. Common treatments include professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneer placement, and tooth-colored restorations. Our practice develops individualized treatment plans to achieve results tailored to each patient's specific aesthetic goals and needs.

Determining candidacy for dental implants requires a consultation with our dentist. Generally, ideal candidates are non-smokers without a history of periodontal disease. Patients considering implants should be committed to maintaining proper oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups and cleanings. These preventive measures are crucial for preserving the health of the bone and gum tissues that support dental implants.

The adaptation period for hybrid dentures typically spans about two weeks for most individuals. During this adjustment phase, we recommend consuming primarily liquid foods such as smoothies and soups, along with soft foods like steamed vegetables. It's also advisable to cut food into smaller pieces to facilitate easier chewing while becoming accustomed to the new dentures.

Invisalign is an attractive option for those seeking discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatment, particularly popular among adult patients. While Invisalign can address many orthodontic issues, some cases may require traditional braces. To determine if Invisalign is suitable for your specific needs, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our dentist. Following a comprehensive examination, our team can guide you towards the most appropriate orthodontic treatment option for your individual case.