FAQS

Can poor oral hygiene cause heart attacks?

At Van Dyke Distinctive Dentistry, we believe your oral health has a direct connection to your whole body health. According to research compiled by the American Heart Association, poor oral hygiene habits may well increase your chance of developing heart disease. If you don’t brush, floss, and rinse on daily basis, then you’re allowing more than 600 types of bacteria to flourish in your mouth. These bacteria are absorbed into your blood stream, contributing to the inflammation of the heart and increasing plaque in blood vessels.

My gums hurt and they bleed when I brush. Do I have gum disease?

Swelling, tenderness, and discolorations are all signs of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. If your gums are also pulling away from your teeth and bleed when you brush, then you may have an advanced form of gum disease that should be treated immediately. We offer periodontal therapy, and we often recommend the minimally invasive periodontal treatment offered by PerioProtect system.

What if I have a toothache?

We don’t want you to suffer! Call Jane today and schedule an appointment! The sooner you see Dr. Van Dyke, the sooner he can determine the cause of your dental pain and offer treatment. Toothaches may be due to advanced gum disease, severe cavities, or a cracked tooth. In either case, your tooth most likely has an interior infection—the nerve and pulp of the tooth have been attacked by bacteria, which is causing your pain. If this is the case, then we’ll recommend a root canal, which will give you relief and restore your tooth.

My teeth are really discolored. What can you do to fix my smile?

At Van Dyke Distinctive Dentistry, we have several cosmetic dentistry alternatives that can beautify your smile. The best option for fixing stained enamel depends on the condition and cause of the discolorations. For a brighter, whiter smile, we offer both take-home and in-office teeth whitening. Or maybe you need some additional repairs, say fixing fractured or crooked teeth, which makes porcelain veneers a more viable choice.

What are my payment options?

We work with nearly all insurance providers, and we also offer several types of payment options. We accept cash, personal checks, and major credit cards. If you pay for your dental work in full at your first visit, we give you a courtesy discount. We also work with the special financing company, CareCredit, which offers monthly payment plans with no or low interest. Please don’t delay necessary oral healthcare due to your worries about financial arrangements. Call Jane today to discuss your options!