FAQs

What will cosmetic dentistry do for me?

Your smile reflects a lot about you; it can be an influence on both your social and professional life. The appearance of your teeth has a direct effect on the overall beauty of your face, and how others respond to you. If the quality of your teeth is making you feel self-conscious, Dr. Don Davis and his experienced clinical team at Lake Creek Family Dental Care will provide personalized attention to your problem(s).

We offer dental make-overs that are effective in correcting deformities and other dental problems.

What options do I have with filling replacement?

Older fillings often contain a composite of silver-mercury. Corrosion or leakage of these fillings can lead to mercury poisoning. No dentists are using an advance hybrid of glass and plastic to make fillings that match the natural color of teeth and will not break down over time. These filling replacements/restorations cost from $150-$350 per-tooth.

How can I fix discolored and/or stained teeth?

Dark, discolored, and stained teeth can be corrected through teeth whitening. At Lake Creek Family Dental Care, we have a teeth whitening solution that is custom-made and placed in a clear tray fit to your mouth. It is a similar to what a football player or other athlete would wear.

However, patients have two options when undergoing teeth whitening:

  • Zoom power whitening: This treatment requires only one office visit.
  • At-home-whitening: An at-home-use treatment that requires a series of treatments, the results are typically apparent within one week.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Someone who is a good candidate for teeth whitening is looking to lighten the color of their teeth and remove staining due to aging, coffee, tea, or tobacco. Results vary depending on a person's habits (i.e. smoking, prior medication use, etc.). An ideal candidate should not have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, teeth with worn enamel, or is currently breastfeeding and/or pregnant.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is both safe and effective. Typically, the only side effect from teeth whitening treatment is having sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, which usually subside within two to three days.

What options do I have in restoring broken teeth?

Depending on the severity of the damage, there are different options in restoring the look of a patient's teeth, such as these cosmetic dentistry procedures:

  • Bonding
  • Porcelain veneers
  • Crowns

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding hides natural flaws, such as stains, gaps, and malformed teeth, by placing a coat of bonding material on the visible side of your teeth. This malleable material is blended and contoured to hide imperfections in your smile. The material is hardened in place with a high-wattage light. The plastic is then smoothed and polished.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are used when the contour, color, or shape of the teeth are in need of significant change, due to small, discolored or misshapen teeth. A porcelain veneer consists of a thin piece of porcelain that is about the same size as a fingernail. The veneer is bonded over the tooth and blended to conceal the problem.

What are crowns?

A crown is used when fillings or composite plastics cannot replace a part of a tooth that is missing. Some crowns are built on a metal base, which fits snugly on a tooth to restore and strengthen the entire top surface of the tooth. Anterior crowns are made of all porcelain, which provides a very beautiful white smile with no sight of any metal.

What are dental crowns made of?

Dental crowns are made up of gold or porcelain. In some cases, they can also be made of stainless steel. The porcelain crowns are built upon a metal base designed to fit perfectly over a natural tooth and is matched closely to its color. Lake Creek Family Dental Care has a dental laboratory on site, which allows the lab technician to design a custom shade to match your natural tooth color while you are in the office.

Why get dental crowns?

If you want to restore the appearance of your teeth and smile, you can use dental crowns to recap slightly damaged teeth and still maintain the same shape and size as the natural tooth.

What is sedation dentistry?

Dr. Davis can ensure a quick and easy recovery for those who fear dental work. Sedation dentistry offers patients a relaxing dental appointment.

Who is an ideal candidate for sedation dentistry at Lake Creek Family Dental?

People who have…

  • Unnatural of dental procedures
  • History of poor dental experiences
  • Difficulty getting numb
  • Extreme gag reflex
  • Very sensitive teeth
  • Complex dental problems
  • Need multiple procedures done at once

|| Back to Top ||

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT SEDATION DENTISTRY:

Am I completely unconscious?

No, you will be in a deeply relaxed state, and will be responsive.

Am I left alone while under anesthesia?

No, a member of our staff will always be with you to monitor vitals and visual signs of distress.

Will it last very long?

It depends on your needs; ask you dentist how long they anticipate your procedure to take.

Should someone come with me?

Yes, because of a post-anesthesia disoriented state you will need someone to take you to and from the appointment.

How does sedation dentistry work?

Dr. Davis will give you a small pill to take an hour prior to your treatment. By the time you arrive to our office for to your surgery, you should feel extremely drowsy. (Someone should drive and accompany you during your appointment.)

|| Back to Top ||

DR. DON DAVIS, WHAT STEPS DO I TAKE BEFORE GETTING BRACES?

What happens at your first visit?

You will receive a comprehensive examination of your mouth. This will ensure the dentist is able to meet your goals. The evaluation consists of:

  • Mold of the patients mouth
  • Before pictures
  • Take X-rays to measure progress
  • Based on this information the dentist will propose dental procedures that will correct problem areas

Learn about Invisalign

Invisalign is a hidden way to correct dental abnormalities and get straight teeth without obtrusive hardware. Invisalign can be taken in or out when eating or brushing teeth. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Invisalign.

How it works?

Each piece is worn in 2 week intervals. As they progress, your teeth gradually become straighter. Once you reach your desired positioning, you will know longer need to be treated. This whole process will typically take one and a half to two years.

Reasons to choose Invisalign?

Invisalign is an easy way to get the perfect smile you desire.

  • Discreet: You won't be advertising to the world that your are correcting your teeth
  • Easy to maintain: Removable for quick cleaning. Brush and floss to maintain oral hygiene.
  • No irritation: No sharp or hard edges that rub sensitive areas of the mouth

Who is Invisalign recommended for?

Almost everyone is a great candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign treats cosmetic and other cases. Ask your dentist what option is best for you.

Fit for you

The Invisalign system is molded for the individual patient. This ensures comfort and effectiveness.

Sign me up!

  1. Schedule an appointment: Make sure the dentist is a certified Invisalign specialist
  2. Get you aligners: High-tech 3-D images are used to create your custom aligners. The amount of aligners necessary varies depending on your dental goals.
  3. Visit the dentist: Your dentist will show you how easy it is to put in and remove your new aligners
  4. You have to wear them: The success of your treatment is up to you. Remember to keep aligners in unless you are brushing teeth, eating or flossing. Average treatment times are around 1 year.
  5. You're done: Smile!

How does the price of Invisalign compare to braces?

Like any dental procedure, price varies from patient to patient. Often, because of convenience and ease of use, Invisalign is slightly more costly than braces. Contact an Invisalign specialist at Lake Creek Dental to find out what pricing options are offered.

Will my insurance pay for it?

Coverage depends on the details of your policy. Review the policy with your dental healthcare provider to find out if Invisalign is covered. If you know you policy included orthodontic procedures than chances are Invisalign will be covered.

How will it straighten teeth?

Invisalign uses gradual continuous pressure on teeth to align them at a safe rate. One main advantage of Invisalign is that force is applied to different teeth in carefully scheduled intervals. This allows for teeth to move in the most natural order.

|| Back to Top ||