We encourage conversations about your oral health. Below you will find some of the most common questions patients ask, along with our answers. Please feel free to call or email Soothing Dental with any of your concerns.
Do you recommend fluoride treatment?
We recommend in-office fluoride treatments for children and adults whom we believe will benefit from the extra protection that this can provide. Fluoride is a mineral known to help keep teeth healthy and strong. Fluoride can also help prevent the development of cavities and can help repair teeth that are showing early signs of decay. Every patient is unique, so we do not systematically recommend fluoride for everyone. During your appointment, we will evaluate your teeth and provide a fluoride recommendation if we believe it will be beneficial to your oral health.
Should I use an electric toothbrush?
There is not a definitive answer to this question. When used in conjunction with dental floss, manual and electric toothbrushes can both effectively clean your teeth when the proper brushing technique is used. However, there are certain pros and cons to the two types of brushes. Manual toothbrushes are typically recommended for people who want an inexpensive, disposable option. Electric toothbrushes are an excellent choice for people who cannot effectively hold and maneuver a toothbrush. For additional advice, please ask us to discuss the positives and negatives of manual vs. electric toothbrushes at your next appointment.
Does whitening damage your teeth?
The teeth whitening treatments offered at Soothing Dental are safe and effective. If we believe that for any reason you may be at risk for damage or side-effects from a teeth whitening procedure, we will bring this to your attention and we may advise against this treatment. In most cases, teeth whitening is an easy procedure that leaves you with a bright and sparkling smile! We offer many options – and some can even be administered in the comfort of your own home.
At what age should a child visit a dentist for the first time?
Helping your child achieve a lifetime of excellent oral health starts with regular visits to the dentist – in fact, we call these formative visits, “Happy Visits.” This is because we believe in the importance of a positive, fun experience that fosters healthy habits at an early age. The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both advise parents to bring their young children to the dentist for regular check-ups as soon as the first tooth appears. The first tooth typically erupts around the age of one. Soothing Dental is happy to see children in our office. Our calm and soothing atmosphere allows your children to feel comfortable and relaxed as they experience their first dental appointment.
Are there any special prizes for young patients at the end of their appointment?
A visit to the dentist should be enjoyable no matter your age! At the end of their appointment, our young patients are welcome to choose a prize from our treasure chest. We offer a great selection of rewards that are sure to delight your children – and to get them excited about their next visit.
How safe are X-rays?
The purpose of dental X-rays is to allow Dr. Vinton to see areas of your teeth that are not visible through a regular oral exam. X-rays can detect problems such as tooth decay, bone loss, and an abscess under the gum line. Many patients worry about the safety of dental X-rays, especially when we recommend them more than once a year. Fortunately, with today’s modern X-ray technology, your exposure to radiation is very small – and even smaller when digital X-rays are taken. At Soothing Dental, we take every precaution to ensure your safety when we take X-rays. And we never recommend X-rays when they are not necessary.
I have a terrible fear of going to the dentist. What are my options?
If you have a fear of going to the dentist, then Soothing Dental is the dental practice for you! Our luxury spa environment was designed for your comfort and relaxation. We are experts at helping patients feel at ease. There are many reasons why people fear going to the dentist. No matter the underlying cause of your anxiety, we are here to help. We offer several options including nitrous oxide and oral sedation which can help make your appointment calm, relaxing, and enjoyable. We even have a relaxation room filled with amenities to suit your taste! Please call Soothing Dental for more information and a recommendation for your unique situation.
There are so many toothpastes to choose from. How do I know which one to use?
Fluoride toothpaste. Tartar control toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste. Natural toothpaste. Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste. With so many choices, it can seem practically impossible to select the right one! During your next regular check-up at Soothing Dental, make sure to ask us for a toothpaste recommendation. We will provide you with advice based on your age and the condition of your teeth. Our recommendation will help you select the best toothpaste to keep your oral health in optimal condition.
I’m interested in changing the shape of my teeth. What options are available?
If you are not happy with the shape of your teeth, you have several options for achieving the look you desire. We offer a range of cosmetic dental solutions that will alter the shape of your teeth – and leave you with a bright smile that looks amazing! The most common methods we use include dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding. For more information, please schedule an appointment. We will sit down with you and go over your options in more detail.
What dental insurance do you accept?
Soothing Dental accepts most dental insurance plans. Payment plans are also available through our office. We are happy to answer all of your specific questions about dental insurance and payment options, so please call the office and ask to speak with one of our friendly and helpful staff members. We make things as easy as possible, and we are happy to file dental claims for you.
Soothing Dental is a family dental practice that provides a luxury, relaxing, spa-like environment for the Midlothian community. We see patients of all ages!