FAQs
- How can I improve my smile's appearance?
- Can you show me a preview of my new smile before I commit to a treatment plan?
- Does your office use lasers?
- What is a crown, inlay, or onlay?
- What are dental implants, and how do they differ from dentures and partials?
- What can you do about missing teeth?
- At what age should my children first visit a dentist?
- How can I make an appointment?
- How can I safely whiten my teeth?
- Do you accept my insurance plan? Can I finance my dental work?
- My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
- I want straighter teeth, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
How can I improve my smile's appearance?
That sounds like an easy question to answer, but it isn't! Your smile is unique, and we won't compromise your individuality with smile enhancements. Smile design dentistry done right requires an initial consultation in which we will discuss your goals, preferences, and options for care. Generally speaking, we may suggest porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, all-white restorations, and/or replacement teeth. After your comprehensive evaluation and consultation, we'll present a smile makeover plan for your new smile.
Can you show me a preview of my new smile before I commit to a treatment plan?
With digital imaging, Dr. Nordhus can manipulate a photo of your smile to show you potential results of veneers or other smile makeover procedures. He may also design wax-up models to ensure that your restorations fit properly within your bite. Both of these tools can help you make wise, informed decisions about your cosmetic or restorative treatment plan.
Does your office use lasers?
We use lasers for precise, comfortable dentistry. DIAGNOdent by KaVo is our cavity-detection laser. It will scan your teeth to find decay and areas prone to decay, and we will not have to inspect each of your teeth with a traditional dental hook.
Our soft-tissue laser allows us to treat gum disease, perform crown lengthening, harvest and place gum grafts, reduce gum tissue for esthetics, and do biopsies. You will need no stitches after laser surgery, and bleeding is minimal. Most patients recover more quickly after laser surgery than they do following traditional surgery.
What is a crown, inlay, or onlay?
You can review our services page for more information, or read about onlays and inlays or crowns here. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, please call us. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
What are dental implants, and how do they differ from dentures and partials?
Unlike dentures and partials, dental implants are anchored in the mouth like natural teeth. They require no clasps, adhesives, or special cleaning routine. Because implants are comprised of a replacement tooth root and crown, they function and feel totally natural. If cared for properly with six-month checkups, cleanings, and daily oral hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime. Learn more about dental implants here.
What can you do about missing teeth?
We offer bridgework, partials, full dentures, and implant restorations to replace missing teeth. Learn more about these services on our services page, then call for a consultation. With X-rays, intraoral photos, and a thorough assessment of your dentition, Dr. Nordhus can help you decide which replacement option will be best for you.
At what age should my children first visit a dentist?
We want to see your child when they have teeth! Most children respond well to a dental visit around age three, though the ADA recommends children have a first visit at one year of age. Bring your child with you to your appointment so that he or she can become acclimated to Dr. Nordhus's office. If you notice any development problems with your child's mouth or teeth, call us to schedule a visit immediately. Otherwise, we'd like to begin teaching your children how to care for their teeth and gums when they reach three or four years of age. By age four or five, they can begin hygiene treatments and regular checkups.
How can I make an appointment?
Simply call our office. Click here for contact information or click here for appointments.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
We bet you didn't know that teeth whitening, in some form, has been around since the 1700s. Modern whitening uses safe and effective bleaching gel to melt away stains and discoloration. Choose from Rembrandt Sapphire Light teeth whitening in our office or convenient home teeth-whitening kits.
Do you accept my insurance plan? Can I finance my dental work?
We want to make paying for your dental work convenient, so we offer creative financing options, and we file dental insurance. Learn more about payments and financing here.
My gums bleed after I brush. Is this something to be concerned about?
Bleeding is usually a sign of a problem. When gums bleed, the cause usually stems from the patient brushing too hard or from early-stage gum disease, called gingivitis. We can consult with you on the proper toothbrush and pressure for safe, effective daily oral care. If your gums show signs of gum disease, we may recommend periodontal therapy to stop the disease and return your gums to good health. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults, and it has been linked to many overall health conditions, including stroke, heart attack, and respiratory problems. Untreated, gum disease can escalate to create significant damage to your health, so call for an assessment now. We will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for life!
I want straighter teeth, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
Your image is important, so we'll help you maintain a sophisticated appearance, even if you need braces. Depending on your unique case, we may suggest porcelain veneers, which will straighten your smile instantly, or Invisalign clear braces, an inconspicuous and convenient method to reposition existing teeth. Read more about these procedures in our services area.
