Frequently Asked Questions

Routine dental appointments should be scheduled at least twice per year. If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, we encourage you to call now. We also encourage you to call well in advance if you are in need of a specific appointment time, such as early morning or later in the afternoon.

Children should be evaluated by a dentist by age one, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. As a family dentist in Broadview Heights, Dr. Whitney and our team can make your child’s first dental appointment fun and educational.

A routine dental cleaning consists of polishing and flossing for a patient with healthy gums. If plaque bacteria have invaded the spaces below the gumline and have caused a localized or generalized gum infection, our experienced dental hygienists can prescribe a different type of dental cleaning to prevent the spread of the infection.

Teeth whitening is generally safe, easy, and effective. However, it’s important to consult a dental professional before attempting any whitening treatment. We’ll need to confirm that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for the procedure in order to prevent an unwanted outcome.

The typical sufferer tends to be a loud snorer, whose breathing is interrupted by a silent period lasting 10 seconds or more! This silence of no breathing will be repeatedly interrupted by a loud choking, gasping, and/or snorting. Other signs include daytime drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.

Treatment solutions can include weight loss or customized oral appliances to maintain an open airway as you sleep, but can range from non-surgical to surgical based upon the extent of your diagnosis.

The signs of TMJ disorder can include headaches, neck pain, difficulty chewing, sensitive teeth, popping and clicking in the jaw joint, and clenching or grinding of the teeth.

In most cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders can be alleviated with self-managed care or nonsurgical treatments. Severe TMJ disorders may need to be treated with dental or surgical interventions.

The best treatment option will depend on the location of the missing tooth, the health of the neighboring teeth, and your overall health. Dental implants and dental bridges tend to be the most effective options. Dr. Whitney can conduct an examination to determine the choice that will be best for you.

Your options can range from a simple dental cleaning to replacement teeth and dental veneers. The possibilities are endless — and that’s a good thing. The first step is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Whitney to discuss your goals and explore your options.