Family Dental FAQ

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown. Some factors may include genetics, allergies, stress, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Trauma to the inside of the mouth can result in the development of canker sores. Ill-fitting dentures or braces, toothbrush trauma from brushing too hard, or biting your cheek, may produce canker sores. Certain foods may also be a factor. Citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables can trigger a canker sore or make the problem worse. Foods like chips, pretzels and hard candies have sharp edges that can nick and injure the soft tissue of the mouth.

To treat a canker sore, rinse your mouth with antimicrobial mouthwash or warm water and salt. Over the counter treatments are also available. If the canker sore is present longer than two weeks, ask a McGann Family Dental team member.

Visits to the dentist include more than just “checking teeth.” While patients who wear dentures no longer have to worry about dental decay, they may have concerns with ill-fitting appliances or mouth sores, to name a few. Annual visits to the dentist (or sooner if soreness is present) is recommended. During these visits, an oral cancer screening and head and neck exam will be performed as well as an evaluation of the fit or need for replacement of the existing appliances. Regular visits can help you to avoid more complicated problems down the road.

In-Network: The dental provider and insurance company have agreed upon a contract regarding fees, coverage for procedures and patient's responsibility.

• Your insurance plan will indicate the percentage of the allowed fee that is covered for care performed by an in-network provider.
• Please reach out to your insurance company with questions regarding coverage for specific services and your patient responsibility.

Out-of-network

If a plan is out-of-network the provider has not made an agreement regarding the fees, coverage for procedures and patient responsibility.

Ask your insurance company if they cover services performed at an out of network provider and at what percentage. The patient will be responsible for the difference between the fee for service and the amount paid by insurance.

• Some insurance companies do not offer coverage for care at an out-of-network provider.
• Please reach out to your insurance company with questions about your plan before your appointment.

Dental HMO (Health Management Organization)

The insurance company has a specified group of providers (typically a smaller number of providers in an area) that have agreed to an DHMO contract. The plan may not cover care provided by a dentist that is not in the DHMO group.

• McGann Family Dental is not contracted with any DHMO plans.

There are certain conditions that require pre-medication with an antibiotic prior to dental treatment to prevent adverse effects and infection that can be caused by bacteria that enter the blood stream during certain treatment. Most of the current recommendations involve certain conditions with the heart. The ADA and AHA currently recommend antibiotic prophylaxis for patients with:

• prosthetic cardiac valve or prosthetic material used for cardiac valve repair
• a history of infective endocarditis
• a cardiac transplant that develops cardiac valvulopathy
• the following congenital (present from birth) heart conditions:
  • unrepaired cyanotic congenital heart disease, including palliative shunts and conduits
  • a completely repaired congenital heart defect with prosthetic material or device, whether placed by surgery or by catheter intervention, during the first six months after the procedureb
  • any repaired congenital heart defect with residual defect at the site or adjacent to the site of a prosthetic patch or a prosthetic device (that inhibit endothelialization)

There has been a lot of controversy lately over whether patients with artificial joints should take antibiotics prior to dental appointments. Rigorous studies conducted recently failed to find a link between dental treatments and prosthetic joint replacements. Therefore, the current ADA recommendation is:

“In general, for patients with prosthetic joint implants, prophylactic antibiotics are not recommended prior to dental procedures to prevent prosthetic joint infection.”

If you have any questions please consult with your dentist about this prior to treatment.

Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:

• Patient Registration Form
• Dental Insurance Card (if applicable)
• Identification such as Driver’s License, Military ID or State ID
• Patient Health History Form
• HIPAA Consent Form
• Payment and Credit Policy Forms

All forms can be found on out Patient Resources page. To save time, you can download the forms and fill them out prior to your appointment.

If you have not completed the patient registration forms please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out any remaining patient forms.

New patients who have completed their forms should arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled appointment time.

Patient forms can be found here.

The American Dental Association recognizes that piercing is a widely accepted form of self-expression, and that includes piercings in the mouth. However, the potential problems from piercings are numerous. Some symptoms after a piercing include pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth, tooth loss, and an increased flow of saliva, none of which are particularly pleasant. Tongue piercing can also cause excessive bleeding. If you’re thinking of placing a piercing in or around your mouth, talk to your dentist first. If you already have piercings and are having problems, see your dentist right away.

Research today suggests a link between gum disease and diabetes. Research has established that people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. If blood glucose levels are poorly controlled you may be more likely to develop gum disease and could potentially lose teeth. Like all infections, gum disease can be a factor in causing blood sugar levels to rise and make diabetes harder to control. Be sure to see your dentist regularly for check-ups and follow home care recommendations. If you notice other conditions such as dry mouth or bleeding gums, be sure to talk with your dentist. And don’t forget to mention any changes in medications.

When you are asleep, saliva production in your mouth decreases. Since your saliva is the mouth’s natural mouthwash, most people experience morning breath. Bacteria found in the crevices of the teeth and on the taste buds of the tongue break down the food particles, which produces sulfur compounds. It is actually these sulfur compounds which give our breath a bad odor. During the day, your saliva helps to wash away bacteria and food particles. Your saliva also helps to dissolve the foul smelling sulfur compounds. With decreased saliva flow during sleep, these compounds build up and make their presence know with your first morning yawn.

Chronic, long-term mouth odor can be a sign of more serious illness. See your dentist if this is a concern.

Quite simply, flossing cleans the areas of the teeth that the brush can’t reach. Even in a healthy mouth, millions of bacteria are feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can’t get to. That’s the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth. Eventually, it hardens into tartar (or calculus). Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist or hygienist can remove tartar.

Ask your dentist or hygienist to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment. Be sure to check out our blog post on flossing: To Floss or Not to Floss.

McGann Family Dental is in-network with many major insurance plans.

Please reach out to your insurance company by phone or visit your insurance company's directory of providers to verify that our office is in network with your specific plan.

We are in-network with many Premier plans offered through Delta Dental, Health Partners, MetLife Dental and Cigna.

We do not accept Medical Assistance plans.
We are out of network with UCare and Dental HMO plans.

Oral injuries are often painful, and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. If you have knocked out a tooth, these tips may be able to save it:

• Rinse, do not scrub, the tooth to remove dirt or debris
• Place the clean tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum or under your tongue
• Do not attempt to replace the tooth into the socket as this could cause further damage
• Get to the dentist. Successful re-implantation is possible only when treatment is performed promptly
• If it is not possible to store the tooth in the mouth of the injured person, wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze and immerse it in milk.

Make it fun! If you are enthusiastic about brushing your teeth, your children will also be enthusiastic. Also, start right away. If they get used to brushing at a very early age then brushing will feel natural and comfortable as they grow. Children want to do the things their parents do. If your children see you brushing your teeth and displaying good dental habits, they will follow. Ask the dentist for other creative ways to get children to brush their teeth.

Getting your children to brush starts with taking them to the dentist at an early age. All children should be seen by their first birthday or 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth.

It varies, but please plan on two hours for the first visit. We believe in thorough care and have found that this is the amount of time necessary to perform a complete new patient appointment. This will include an introductory interview with the hygienist, photographs and any necessary X-rays, cleaning, discussion with the dentist, exam, review of findings and discussion of treatment options.

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:

• small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings or crowns)
• cracks in the teeth or roots
• infections in the bone
• periodontal (gum) disease
• abscesses or cysts
• developmental abnormalities
• some types of tumors, including cancerous

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. X-rays can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, X-rays may even help save your life. The dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present in development. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.

Smokeless tobacco may be smokeless, but it isn’t harmless. These are some of the potential hazards:

• A sore that does not heal
• A lump or white patch
• A prolonged sore throat
• Difficulty in chewing
• Restricted movement of the tongue or jaw
• A feeling of something in the throat
• Pain is rarely an early symptom. All tobacco users need to see their dentist regularly.

Always spend a full two minutes brushing your teeth. It takes that long to get rid of the bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. Do not brush too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque. Floss once a day. Flossing is the only way to get bacteria from between your teeth.

Watch the sugar you eat. There is sugar in candy, fruits, crackers and chips. These are the foods that the bacteria in your mouth like best. Be mindful of foods like raisins and peanut butter that stick to your teeth. They can provide a constant supply for the bacteria eating into your teeth. Try to minimize the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and brush your teeth afterwards.

If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water – which can help to remove food from your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Chewing stimulates the flow of your saliva which acts as a natural plaque-fighting substance. And do not forget your regular dental visits. Good dental habits will go a long way toward a no-cavity visit.

A mouthguard can prevent injuries to your face and teeth. Most people benefit from wearing a mouthguard when playing any sport. You should wear one whether you are playing professionally or just on weekends. Do what you can to preserve your smile and your health. The best mouthguards are custom-fitted by your dentist. This is especially important if you wear braces or fixed bridgework.

Commercial, ready-made mouthguards can be purchased at most sporting goods stores. They are relatively inexpensive but they are also less effective. The best mouthguards are custom-made by your dentist. Custom-made mouthguards fit better, are more comfortable, make it easier to breathe and talk, and provide better protection than stock mouthguards. In either case, rinse your mouthguard with water or mouthwash after each use. With proper care, it should last for several months.

Ask your dentist which kind of mouthguard you should use.

Chemotherapy and Radiation can cause a number of problems in the mouth, some of which might include: mouth sores, infections, dry mouth, bleeding of the gums and lining of the mouth and general soreness and pain of the mouth. It can be harder to control these things while undergoing treatment as the immune system is generally compromised as a result of the treatment. There are some special mouth rinses that can be prescribed to help with discomfort during treatment. Our favorite is called “Magic Mouthwash” and it’s very effective in soothing inflamed oral tissues. It is important to see your dentist before treatment begins and then to continue with recommended follow-up care. These treatments can cause dry mouth, and recommendations might be made for additional care both in-office and at home.

Like other investments, if you whiten your teeth, the length of time you can expect it to last will vary. If you smoke, drink red wine or coffee, or consume other acid-containing foods, your bright smile may begin to yellow more quickly than you expect. In general, a teeth whitening procedure can last up to a few years. And even though the results can fade, occasional touch-ups can be done to regain luster.

About half of women who are pregnant experience a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. This condition can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue. Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by the alteration in hormones during pregnancy which allows certain oral bacteria to thrive. A more advanced oral health condition called periodontal disease (a serious gum infection that destroys attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold teeth in the mouth) may affect the health of your baby. Studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and preterm, low birth-weight babies. In fact, pregnant women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that’s born too early and too small. Appropriate oral care is not only safe during pregnancy but highly recommended; please continue to see your dentist regularly.

The American Dental Association cites sealants as an effective weapon in the arsenal against tooth decay. Sealants are a thin coating painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting your teeth against decay-causing bacteria.

Sealants have proven effective with both adults and children, but are most commonly used with children. Despite the fact that sealants are only a fraction the cost of fillings, only a small percentage of school-aged children have sealants on their permanent teeth. Ask your dentist whether sealants are a good choice for you or your children.

Sensitivity toothpaste, which commonly contains potassium nitrate, is typically very effective in treating sensitive teeth. After a few weeks of use, you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic foods such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons, as well as tea and soda can increase tooth sensitivity, and work against sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by brushing gently and using desensitizing toothpaste, see your dentist. There are special compounds that can be applied in-office to the roots of your tooth to reduce – if not eliminate – the sensitivity. High-fluoride containing home care products can also be recommended to help reduce tooth sensitivity. To learn more about sensitivity products and all the other things in your toothpaste, read Dr. McGann’s blog post .

Ask the friendly staff at McGann Family Dental for more information on sensitive teeth. Remember: persistent sensitivity can be a sign of a more serious problem. Don’t be the person trying to fix the hole in your tooth with Sensodyne!

Many factors work to destroy the naturally white smile you were born with. Tobacco, certain foods, and certain drinks actually stain teeth. These substances continually work on our teeth causing our white smile to gradually fade. Hot coffee and tea are especially hazardous to your smile because they change the temperature of teeth. This temperature change – hot and cold cycling – causes the teeth to expand and contract allowing stains to penetrate the teeth. Cutting down on coffee and tea can go a long way to creating a great smile. Foods that are slightly acidic are also dangerous to your white smile. These foods open up the pores of the tooth enamel allowing stains to move more easily into the tooth.

Your dentist can help you with more tips on keeping a white smile.

Commercial whitening toothpastes vary greatly in their ability to whiten teeth. They work by removing surface stains from the teeth with the use of abrasives. However, unlike professional whitening, whitening toothpastes do not alter the intrinsic color of the teeth. Toothpastes that are effective in removing stains can also destroy tooth enamel in the process. These toothpastes use harsh abrasives. With repeated use, harsh abrasives begin to damage tooth enamel and can contribute to increased tooth sensitivity. If you would like to try a whitening toothpaste, consult with your dentist first.

Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone structure, which if left untreated, can cause permanent jaw bone destruction and possible tooth loss. Untreated periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, low birth weight babies, pre-term delivery, respiratory disease, and prostate cancer. An advanced stage of periodontal disease exhibits inflamed gums pulling away from your bone and teeth. Other signs of periodontal disease include:

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Loose teeth or teeth that have moved
• Sensitive teeth
• Pus coming from around the teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Tender gums
• Bleeding gums

Treatment of early periodontal disease can be performed in-office. However, advanced stages may require surgery. Periodontal disease can be prevented and treated successfully by seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly and following recommended care plans.

People often respond to bleeding gums with the wrong method of treatment. Usually, gums that bleed are a symptom of the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. But often, people stop brushing as frequently and effectively because it may be painful or it may cause the gums to bleed again. However, when gums are inflamed, brushing could help reduce the inflammation. More importantly, you should see your dentist to have a periodontal screening and recording performed in order to determine the level of disease present and the best treatment course to pursue.

It is also worth noting that chronic dental pain and discomfort are obvious signs of a problem. Over-the-counter drugs may provide some temporary relief. These medications usually only mask the existence of a problem and should be taken on a temporary basis.

It is important to see your dentist as soon as possible if your gums begin to bleed.

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many foods and in water. Some natural sources of fluoride are brewed tea, canned fish, cooked kale and spinach, apples, and skim milk. Most cities in the US add fluoride to their water supply, so by drinking tap water you will acquire fluoride. If drinking water does not have fluoride, supplements are available.

The lack of exposure to fluoride places individuals of any age at risk for dental decay. Fluoride is important to dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by making your tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks from the bacteria in your mouth.

Studies have shown that children who consumed fluoridated water from birth had less dental decay. Fluoride can reverse early decay and help prevent osteoporosis, a disease that causes degenerative bone loss. Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about whether you’re getting the daily amount of fluoride you need.

Some people do not see a dentist on a regular basis. They only go when they have a problem. This is known as “emergency care” versus “preventive care.” While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time. As a rule of thumb, it costs about 10 times more to treat a tooth after it starts hurting than before. This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process. An example is tooth decay. It is typical to hear, “Nothing hurts… I don’t have any problems.”

Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a huge cavity who has never felt a thing. The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms. This early detection can help you prevent root canal treatment. Please see Dr. McGann’s blog post called A Frog in Hot Water to learn more.