Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Northampton, MA • East Longmeadow, MA

Do You Have Questions? We’ve Got the Answers

Do you have questions about how to take care of your smile at home, whether your dental insurance will cover a certain treatment, or any other dental-related topic? We want to give you the answers you need to take the best care of your smile so it lasts a lifetime. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common ones that we receive from our patients. If you don’t see the answer you need, feel free to contact us!

How frequently should I change out my toothbrush?

The American Dental Association recommends changing out the head of your electric toothbrush or getting a new manual toothbrush every three months. If you notice that your bristles are beginning to fray or you’ve just gotten over an illness, these are also important times to get a new toothbrush so you don’t damage your gums or make yourself sick again.

Will my dental insurance cover dental implants?

Unfortunately, it’s not common that dental insurance plans will cover the cost of dental implants. However, the best way to find out is to call them directly. Some plans may cover certain portions of the procedure, so it’s best to check to make sure that you’re maximizing your benefits. If you have any questions or need help doing this, don’t hesitate to ask us!

Are you in-network with any dental insurance plans?

We are in-network with several dental insurance companies, including:

  • Delta Dental
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Altus Dental
  • Cigna

If you want to know whether we’re in-network with yours, contact us and ask!

How can I encourage my child to brush their teeth regularly?

Since children aren’t as diligent about brushing and flossing their teeth yet, because they’re still getting into the routine, it’s a good idea to offer incentives and encouragements (we recommend that they aren’t in the form of sweets, so as to not tempt cavities!). You can let them pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste or allow them to choose what movie to watch on family movie night, for just a few suggestions.

I have a severe toothache. What should I do?

If you have severe, persistent tooth pain that won’t seem to go away, contact us immediately to schedule an emergency examination. It could be caused by an infection hidden deep beneath the enamel of your tooth, and without timely treatment, the issue may become worse.

Why is it important to visit a dentist with advanced technology?

Advanced dental technology doesn’t just make each of your appointments fast and more convenient. It also ensures that your dentist can precisely and accurately diagnose oral health problems and develop successful treatments for them.