Dental Q&A

We want to make sure that we offer you all the answers you need.

Q: What can I expect at my first dental appointment with Scenic Drive Dental?

A: Your initial visit will include a thorough cleaning by one of our fantastic registered dental hygienists, a complete series of X-rays necessary for a proper diagnosis and a complete oral evaluation by Dr. Schmieder. Dr. Schmieder will ask for the patient’s needs and wants for his/her smile and then devise a treatment plan for how to achieve those goals.

Q: Should I be concerned that my gums bleed when I brush?

A: Yes, you should be very concerned about bleeding gums, particularly if you haven't had an exam in a while. Bleeding gums could be a symptom of gum disease, which can be treated and reversed. Call us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment so we can analyze the cause.

Q: Why is fluoride important to dental health?

A: The lack of fluoride puts individuals of any age at risk for dental decay. Fluoride is important because it helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth’s enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria in the mouth. There is research to prove that children who consumed fluoridated water from birth had less tooth decay. Fluoride can reverse early decay and help prevent osteoporosis in adults. 

Q: I knocked out a tooth, can it be saved?

A: Oral injuries are often painful, and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible. You should recover the tooth, gently rinse it off, place the clean tooth in your mouth between your cheek and gum or under your tongue. If this is a young child that would be at risk of swallowing the detached tooth, place the tooth in a cup of milk until you can get treatment. Do not attempt to place the tooth back into the socket as this could cause further damage. Get to your dentist - quickly. Successful reinsertion is possible only when treatment is performed promptly. If this is not possible, immerse the tooth in milk.

Q: What payment options do you offer?

A: Figuring out insurance benefits can be confusing. That’s why we will file your claim for you, as long as you pay for your co-pay at the time of your appointment. You can pay for our services with cash or check. We also accept Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover and CareCredit™. Any amount not covered by your insurance is your responsibility and our staff will help devise a flexible payment plan that will make us all happy. We feel your insurance should not dictate the quality or timing of your treatment. If you need extensive or long-term dental care, our office offers financial assistance through CareCredit (www.carecredit.com). We are happy to help you with insurance concerns, so if you have any questions, please contact us at 636-479-5324.

Q: What can I do about my sensitive teeth?

A: Sensitivity toothpastes are effective. After a few weeks of use you may notice a decrease in sensitivity. Highly acidic foods such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, tea and soda can increase tooth sensitivity, and work against any sensitivity toothpaste. If you do not get relief by using these methods see your dentist. There are special treatments that can be done in the office to the roots of your tooth to reduce, if not eliminate, the sensitivity. Ask our friendly staff for more information if needed.

Q: Is smokeless tobacco harmful?

A: Smokeless tobacco may be smokeless, but it is not harmless. The potential hazards include:

• Tooth abrasion from the tobacco can scratch teeth and wear away the enamel
• The irritation caused by chewing tobacco can result in gum recession
• Increased tooth decay can result from sugar that is added to smokeless tobacco
• Tooth discoloration and bad breath are common with long-term use
• Nicotine levels in the blood are similar to those found in cigarettes
• A diminished sense of taste and smell caused by tobacco use can lead to unhealthy eating habits
• Cancer can be caused by all forms of smokeless tobacco

Q: I have diabetes. Why is my dentist concerned?

A: Research suggests a link between gum disease and diabetes. People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease. If blood glucose levels are not controlled you may be more likely to develop gum disease and 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 Dr. Schmieder regularly for check-ups and follow home care recommendations. If you notice other conditions such as bleeding gums or dry mouth talk with him and don’t forget to mention any changes in medications.

Q: How can I ask Dr. Schmieder questions directly?

A: Dr. Schmieder and his staff will answer dental health related questions via email at [email protected].  If you have an emergency, please call Scenic Drive Dental office at 636-479-5324 and follow the instructions for a return call.

Q: I really do not like visiting the dentist, is there anything you can do to help me relax?
A: Many of our patients came to us very nervous about receiving dental treatment. We offer nitrous oxide to help make your visit more stress-free and comfortable. Often referred to as laughing gas, nitrous can help anyone who is excessively nervous get through a thorough appointment.

Q: I want my front teeth to look better, but I don’t want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
A: There are many ways to improve the look of your teeth without braces. Scenic Drive Dental offers cosmetic services to straighten teeth such as porcelain veneers or bonding. Each mouth is different so we will need to evaluate your teeth to recommend a specific method.

If you have any other questions please call our office at 636-479-5324.