Do you have questions about your dental care? Well, at Ashland Dental Arts, we have answers! Take a moment to read our list of frequently asked questions below. If you could not find the answer here, we would love to talk with you! If you would like more information about dental topics and dental care in Ashland, Virginia, call our dentist, Dr. Gretchen Drees, and the team at 804-798-7388!
Contact the office directly at 804-798-7388. Please keep in mind that, per our cancellation policy, we require 48 hours notice for a cancellation or reschedule. If less than 24 hours notice is given, a broken appointment fee may apply.
You can pay your bill online by clicking the Pay Bill button at the top left of the page. You can return the statement with either a check or the credit card section filled out. You can also contact the office directly at 804-798-7388 to pay over the phone with one of our staff members.
Please call our office to discuss your insurance coverage and payment options. We accept credit cards, cash and checks. There is a $40 returned check fee. We also accept CareCredit which offers low and no interest financing options.
Sensitive teeth can be caused by worn or thin tooth enamel, damage to your tooth, or receding gums. If you notice that your teeth have become sensitive to cold, heat or even sweet foods or beverages, make an appointment to see Dr. Drees so that we can determine the cause of your sensitivity and determine the best course of treatment for you.
Gum disease starts with gingivitis, which is a mild, early form of gum disease. It can develop into a more serious condition that can affect your oral and overall health. You may notice that your gums are swollen, tender and red when they should be pink. Your gums may also bleed when you take care of your teeth. It is caused by the presence of plaque and tartar on your teeth, and the best way to avoid it is to brush and floss each day and have regular dental cleanings and checkups. Dr. Drees can give your teeth a deep cleaning to fight the infection, or you may require an antibiotic treatment or a gum graft. The dentist can also provide you with tips on how to avoid a recurrence of gum disease.
Yes, you can! One of the biggest enemies of your smile is plaque. Plaque is the leading cause of gum disease and it also contains bacteria that can cause cavities. You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time, and floss at least once a day. You should also see Dr. Drees as often as she recommends for your routine cleanings and exams.
Dental crowns are extremely useful in dentistry. They can be made of metal or porcelain. They are used to protect a tooth that has had a root canal or is extremely damaged. They can also be used to hold a tooth together that has a large filling and can also be used to hold a dental bridge in place.
If you are missing teeth, talk to Dr. Drees about dental implants. An implant is a titanium post that is placed directly into the jawbone, and a prosthetic crown is then placed on the post. An implant has some distinct advantages as a tooth replacement option. Implants are sturdy, permanent, and can be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. They also stimulate the growth of the jawbone, making it stronger and healthier. While most people are good candidates for dental implants, the procedure is not for everyone. You need to have healthy gums and enough bone in your jaw to support the implants, and if you have certain medical conditions or take certain medications you may need to look at other options. There is some surgery involved in implant placement. At Ashland Dental Arts, we do not place the actual implants. Dr. Drees places the crowns that sit on the implants and will refer you to a doctor for implant placement.
Your teeth can become discolored for a number of reasons. Dark colored foods and drinks, along with red and white wine can darken your smile. Tobacco use is another culprit. Illness, certain medications, dental damage and age can all cause your smile to dim. Depending on the cause, Dr. Drees may suggest a Zoom whitening procedure, which will produce noticeable results in a single visit! While there are many whitening products available over the counter, the treatment you will receive from our dentist is safe and effective.
