Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Westfield, MA
Answers to Your Oral Health Inquiries
Could you be taking better care of your smile at home? Will dental insurance help you pay for a given procedure? Do you have reason to be concerned about the current state of your oral health? The more you know, the easier it is to keep your smile safe for the rest of your life. The FAQs below address some of the most common questions that our patients often bring to our attention. Please contact us if there’s something you want to know that isn’t discussed on this page.
How often should I get a new toothbrush?
According to the American Dental Association, you should replace your toothbrush (or change out the head of your electric toothbrush) once every three months. However, you may want to consider making the switch earlier than that if the bristles on the toothbrush are looking frayed. You should also get a new toothbrush if you’ve been sick recently; bacteria and germs might still be living on your old one.
Does dental insurance help pay for dental implants?
Sadly, the answer to this question is often no. That said, every insurance company is different, and some might be willing to pay for dental implant placement. Additionally, sometimes coverage is available for certain portions of the procedure. You should reach out to your dental insurance company to confirm the details of your plan so that you can keep the costs of your dental implants under control.
Are you in-network with my dental insurance?
Our practice is currently in-network with Delta Dental, BlueCross BlueShield, Altus Dental, and Cigna. We also file claims for other dental insurance plans. Reach out to us today to see what coverage is available at our practice under your specific policy.
What should I do about severe pain in my tooth?
Toothaches that are causing severe pain and/or don’t fade away after a day or two should be considered potential dental emergencies. Call our office right away to schedule an appointment. If the pain is caused by an infection inside the tooth, it’s important to have it treated as promptly as possible before the problem can grow more severe.
What can I do to encourage my children to brush their teeth?
No child is born knowing proper oral hygiene practices, so it can take them a while to pick up the right habits. To make sure your child is brushing regularly, you can try offering sugar-free treats and other rewards. You can also help make brushing fun for them by letting them pick a toothbrush they like and buying toothpaste that comes in different flavors. If you need additional suggestions, feel free to ask during your child’s next appointment at our office.