Dedicated to you and your smile!
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(904) 384-4391
https://app.nexhealth.com/appt/divergent-dental?lid=38821
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do you offer cosmetic dentistry?Yes! We love improving smiles! From teeth whitening to smile makeovers to veneers, we would be happy to go over all your options with you. We can also take a photograph of your current smile and show you an imaging of what it could look like after cosmetic dentistry.
- I have a space between my front teeth and they’re a little crooked also. I have been told that I would need braces. Is there anything else that can be done, other than braces?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.
- I’ve considered getting my teeth bleached. Does bleaching really work? Also, do the drug store bleaching kits work as good as ones available through my dentist?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.
- Can bleaching damage your teeth?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.
- I must admit that the only reason I don’t go to the dentist is that I’m afraid. I know I should make an appointment, but even if I did, I probably would be so anxious that I wouldn’t show up. What can be done for me?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.
- I really do not like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?Your comfort is most important. Here are just some of the ways we go out of our way to help you relax.
- I currently wear a full upper denture. The six teeth that I still have on the bottom are in bad shape. I don’t want to get them pulled, because I’ve heard how bad lower dentures fit. What can I do?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.
- I have heard about implants for missing teeth. Do they really work? How strong are they?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.
- My dentures are loose. What can I do?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!
- My teeth don’t hurt, but my dentist says I have problems with them. Is that possible?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.
- I have heard that the old style silver fillings can crack teeth. Is there any truth to that?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.
- I have noticed that my teeth are getting shorter. Is there anything that can be done to stop this?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.
- Are dental x-rays harmful? Can’t radiation be dangerous for the body?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!
- Why do we have to visit the dentist twice a year? If I take care of my teeth, shouldn’t once a year be enough?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!)
- Is it really possible to keep my teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime?YES! With routine preventive care visits combined with consistent oral hygiene at home, your teeth could and should be with your for life.
- I have been told I have bad breath. What over the counter product can I buy to prevent this?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.
- I haven’t been to a dentist in a few years. Nothing hurts so do I really need a checkup?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.
- What kind of toothbrush should I use?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.
- I was told that I should get sealants on my child’s teeth. What are they and are they really necessary?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.
- My gums don’t bleed but my dentist says I have gum disease? Is that possible?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
- Can adults also benefit from fluoride?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.
- Do you accept my insurance plan?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.
- What different payment options do you provide?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.
- Crowns, veneers, onlays, inlays and partials. Where can I learn more about what you are talking about?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.
- How does Dr. Rittenberg keep up-to-date on all of the current techniques and materials?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.
- Why choose us?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
- What is the difference between a DDS and a DMD?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.