Common Questions

• Drs. Cazes and Cazes use the latest technologies in pain control, including “laughing gas” (nitrous oxide) and oral medications that can reduce dental anxiety and keep you comfortable during treatment.  Our main goal is to keep you comfortable.  Please discuss your concerns so we can suggest a solution for you.

If I whiten my teeth, how long will it last?

• Your teeth will always remain lighter than when you started.  Occasional touch ups, and good dental hygiene are necessary to maintain whiter teeth.

White fillings or silver fillings... which is better?

• Tooth colored fillings look better and bond to the tooth better than silver fillings resulting in a stronger tooth.  A new cavity can be filled with with a much smaller white filling resulting in a stronger tooth.  Now days most filling are tooth colored not only do they look nicer but are more conservative than silver fillings.

Will my insurance cover this?

• This can be a complicated answer.  The answer depends on the insurance contract you have.  Calling the Resources office of your employer or calling your actual insurance carrier may help you understand the benefits you have.  We will supply you the information needed and answer any questions about your treatment.  We will not begin treatment until your questions are answered.

Why can’t you just fill my tooth?

• When a filling is very large or cracks are present in a tooth just replacing a filling with a filling may leave a very weak tooth that may result in a very painful situation.  A dental crown or cap may be needed to strengthen the tooth.

Why do I have to have x-rays?

• We only take necessary x-rays.  X-rays can detect abnormalities that are not visible to the eye. This includes tooth decay, abscesses, impactions, bone loss, etc.  Early detection and treatment means better results for you.  We use an advanced digital x-ray system that gives us high quality images while minimizing radiation.

What is the best toothpaste and toothbrush to use?

• We generally recommend regular fluoride toothpaste (any that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance) and soft bristle toothbrush. We find that tartar control and whitening toothpastes may cause the some people's teeth to become sensitive.

I don’t like to floss.  Can’t I just rinse with Listerine?

• Listerine can help your mouth feel fresh and clean but it is still necessary to floss to remove the plaque between your teeth that Listerine will not.  Plaque removal is a mechanical process not a chemical process.  Brushing and flossing are your best dental hygiene tools.  If flossing has you tied up in knots, we can discuss other mechanical ways of cleaning in-between your teeth.

Why are my teeth so sensitive?

• Patients typically have sensitive teeth for a variety of reasons.  Tooth wear, clenching or grinding, abrasive toothpastes, and aggressive toothbrushing are common causes of sensitivity.  The exact cause of your sensitivity can be determined during an examination.