Frequently Asked Questions

Today, in many cases, we can help our patients have straighter teeth and a beautiful smile without traditional braces. We offer Invisalign which are clear and removable trays that improve your smile. Veneers can often be another option. Ask to see before and after pictures.

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) works extremely well for most patients. Drug store remedies and quick-fix techniques such as "whitening strips" are often "low cost" and "low power" short term solutions to achieving a whiter smile. Consumers report that the drug store whitening products are messier and the results are not as good as desired. Fast acting, safe and noticeable Teeth Whitening uses stronger more powerful ingredients, which require the supervision of a dental professional. Our staff is trained to help you to achieve a brighter/whiter smile! Amazing results can be seen in as little as 1 hour! Call us today to discuss what options might be available for a brighter and whiter smile.

Professional teeth whitening solutions are safe when properly used. We can advise you how to best protect your teeth. In most cases our whitening techniques are a very safe and effective way to a whiter, brighter smile! We will be happy to guide you toward the best option.

First, know that you are not alone! Millions of people have this fear/anxiety. Relaxation techniques such as oral sedation (safe, mild, "sleepy-time" medications) help patients "snooze" through the process and ease anxiety. We are happy to have an open, non-judgmental discussion about how we can best help you in this area.

Your comfort is most important. Here are just some of the ways we go out of our way to help you relax.

In some cases saving and restoring these remaining natural teeth can provide support and anchorage on the lower. If they are not in good shape there are other options available to avoid the typically lower loose denture. We will be happy to do a complete and thorough exam of your teeth to help you make a good choice.

If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be an option for you. They are like natural teeth and are very durable. We will be happy to discuss how dental implants may be of help to you.

Loose dentures can be uncomfortable, unhealthy and sometimes embarrassing. We have helped many patients overcome this so that they now speak, chew, and smile with confidence and comfort!

Undetected dental problems are often dormant with no signs of pain or swelling. The key is to catch them early and have the option of treating these issues while it's a smaller, less involved and usually less costly treatment. We will be happy to show you on our digital x-rays and intraoral camera any areas of concern so that you can actually see and understand your particular situation.

Amalgam (silver-mercury) fillings do not bond to the teeth. They simply "sit in" the void that was created when the decay was removed. Over the years, chewing forces along with the expansion and shrinking of the metal with hot and cold foods often cause teeth to crack or break. The larger the amalgam and the further back in the mouth, the greater the risk. Smaller amalgam fillings that are sealed well can last decades. We will be happy to evaluate your fillings for you and see if replacing the old amalgam makes sense.

This situation should be evaluated as soon as possible. The key is determining what the cause is. The good news is that there are several techniques that are used to prevent your teeth from getting shorter. Ask us about the best course of action for you.

With state of the art digital x-rays, there is minimal exposure. The FDA commission states that dental x-rays are safe. The truth is undetected dental disease, by not having appropriate x-rays taken, causes an even greater health risk than the radiograph itself!

The American Dental Association recommends 2 to 4 visits per year, depending on your particular dental health. In the long run, regular preventive oral care is a wise investment and actually helps you save money (and your teeth!)

YES! With routine preventive care visits combined with consistent oral hygiene at home, your teeth could and should be with your for life.

80% of bad breath (a condition known as halitosis) comes from tooth decay, gum disease, and bacteria on the tongue. We will do a complete examination of your teeth and gums in order to determine the source. We also carry some excellent products and dental aids to help.

Many dental problems occur without any warning. Nothing hurts until there is a significant problem. Extensive dental care is often required for patients who delay or avoid regularly scheduled dental visits.

Choose a tooth brush that has SOFT bristles. (Hard bristles can actually damage your gums). There are many exciting innovations with electronic toothbrushes. At your dental check-up, we will be able to review brushing techniques and make recommendations for the best toothbrush option for you.

The sealant acts as a barrier protecting the tooth from decay. Sealant material is applied ("painted") into the vulnerable pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Occasionally an adult's tooth can also benefit from having a sealant.

Periodontal (gum) disease is often referred to as a "Silent Disease" which can lead to bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. Although bleeding gums can be an early indication of periodontal disease, it is not always present. A periodontal charting can measure the severity of the gum disease. We will be happy to provide you with your dental charting evaluation scores and explain what it all means

YES! The benefits of fluoride continue throughout life. It helps prevent decay, especially around older dental restorations that may no longer be perfectly sealed. Fluoride also helps protect the softer roots of teeth that are exposed when there is gum recession. Sensitivity is also reduced. Fluoride also protects against the tendency toward decay when "dry mouth" is present. At your next visit, ask if fluoride therapy would be beneficial to you.

Dental Insurance can be a helpful way to assist in paying for dental treatment. Our experienced staff is excellent at understanding insurance so that patients receive the maximum allowable benefit from their insurance company. We will file all paperwork for you.

We want to do whatever we can to help our patients have a healthy, comfortable smile. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express. If monthly payments would be helpful, we will assist in making arrangements with American General or Care Credit. Interest rates are zero% for those paid off within a year. Extended lower monthly payments are also offered to make it comfortable for your budget.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about any dental topic, procedure or technique. But if you would like even more information about a larger variety of topics click here.

Dr. Rittenberg is committed to continuing education through seminars and conferences and ensures his staff does the same. He also reads the latest journals to keep up with the research and development in the dental industry. Dr. Rittenberg also belongs to study clubs with colleagues in the area to share information concerning procedures, methods and techniques.

We are committed to giving you the very best in personal dental care in a comfortable and caring environment. For over 25 years, Dr. Rittenberg's philosophy has always been to treat patients fairly, do good work and stand behind it. Here are the 10 top reasons

The DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are the same degrees. Most of the schools started in the last 30 years have gone to DMD to reflect the more preventive image that dentistry has today.