When it comes to your oral health, your questions are vital. Our lasting friendship with you depends on your comfort in understanding everything about your health. Our team works hard to have all the answers you need! Read through some of our patients' most frequently asked questions and our answers. If you have other questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call. We are always eager to provide you with the information you need. Located in Shreveport Louisiana.
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Bad Breath
Q: I brush everyday, but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do?
A: Millions of people struggle with halitosis, or bad breath, despite daily teeth brushing. Here is a checklist of procedures that can eliminate the problem: twice daily brushing, daily flossing and tongue cleaning; regular professional cleanings and careful cleaning of any dentures or removable dental appliances. However, if your hygiene is meticulous and the problem persists, we can offer you a couple of different solutions. First, we may recommend a specially prepared rinse or toothpaste designed to actually break the odor-causing sulfur bonds that cause bad breath. Or we may suspect a systemic or internal problem such as an infection or underlying condition. In that case, we may recommend a visit with your family physician or specialist to identify the cause.
Crown
Q: What is a crown and why do I need one?
A: If your doctor has recommended a crown to you, it is likely either to correct a broken tooth or to repair a tooth that has deteriorated due to cavities (decay). The decay in your tooth eats away healthy tooth structure much like rust eats away at metal. If not removed, decay will deteriorate the tooth to the point where extraction is the only viable treatment option. Sometimes, decay is removed leaving healthy tooth structure, but not much of it. A crown can then be placed, restoring the look and function of your tooth while allowing you to keep your natural, underlying tooth structure. Most crowns are precision-milled porcelain or full metal (gold or silver) and are individually customized for each application in each patient, giving you a natural, long lasting smile.
Digital Radiographs (X-Rays)
Q:I know I need x-rays, but I'd prefer to not be exposed to unnecessary radiation. Do you offer digital x-rays?
A: Yes, we do offer digital x-rays. Digital X-rays use less radiation and are safer for you than traditional film X-rays. You will find that in our dental practice, we research the latest trends in technology to find the solutions that promote your overall health, safety, and comfort.
Fluoride
Q: How does fluoride help my teeth?
A: Research shows that fluoride reduces cavities in both children and adults by halting tooth decay. It also helps repair the early stages of tooth decay even before the decay becomes visible. Interestingly, many people continue to be misinformed about fluoride and fluoridation. Fluoride is a safe chemical component when used correctly. When your dentist applies fluoride to your teeth, usually in the form of a fluoride varnish, gel, or foam, that fluoride is more concentrated than the fluoride contained in toothpaste or mouthwash. The ADA recommends that dental professionals use any of the professional strength fluoride varnishes, gels, or foam products carrying the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Improved Smile
Q: I just want my smile to look good. What are some options to help the appearance of my smile?
A: You are not alone. Most people want to have a nice smile since it is the first thing others notice about you. You may be interested in a few minor adjustments or may have concerns that need more attention. Some smiles can be enhanced with simple whitening or bonding treatments. Other smiles need porcelain veneers, crowns, or bridges; gum contouring; periodontal therapy; or, a combination of all these techniques. Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS will suggest a treatment plan for you based on your goals, on your areas of concern, and on the overall condition of your oral health. Contact us for a smile evaluation to determine what course of action will produce the best solution for you.
Q: I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
A: Dr. Heilman has a number of ways to improve the look of your front teeth without the use of unsightly braces. For slightly crooked or unevenly worn teeth, a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers may be sufficient to give them a bright, uniform look. We would be happy to talk with you further about the option that best suits your individual situation.
Attention to detail, respect for the individual, and a true concern for each patient are the hallmarks of our personal care and our quality product. We are committed to helping you fulfill your ultimate self-image.
Losing/Missing a Tooth
Q: How can losing a back tooth affect my smile?
A: Losing a back tooth will darken your overall smile making it look smaller and narrower. Your smile will appear to stop short, and the look will be exaggerated if your missing tooth has teeth on both sides of it. Function during chewing will be reduced and function of many teeth can be affected by losing just one tooth. When you are missing a tooth, you compensate by chewing differently, putting pressure on different parts of your mouth. This can cause your other teeth to shift, creating gaps and spaces and may even cause fractures that result in additional tooth loss or the need for restorations.
Q: What are my options to replace a missing tooth?
A: By replacing missing teeth either with a bridge or implant, you will alleviate the problems associated with missing a tooth and give your smile back its beautiful, full appearance. A bridge is one solution for replacing a tooth. By using neighboring teeth as the supportive structure, Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS will place a porcelain restoration into the vacant space, restoring the functionality and look of your smile. A dental implant is also an excellent solution. Dental implants involve the placement of a titanium post directly into the jawbone. Once the post has bonded to the bone, it can act as a new, solid support for a natural looking, porcelain restoration. Implants can replace a single tooth, or an entire set of teeth, offering more function and permanence than traditional dentures. Ask us to learn more about your options.
New Patient/First Appointment
Q: What can I expect from my first appointment?
A: During your first appointment, your overall dental and oral health will be assessed with a comprehensive oral evaluation. Upon completion of your medical / dental health form, we will ask you to tell us your goals regarding your smile, teeth, and gums. Digital photos and radiographs (X-rays) will be taken of your teeth to identify areas of decay, cracked teeth, and malfunctioning restorations. Our goal is to preserve as much of your teeth as possible by catching decay in its earliest stages. We'll also assess your gums and recommend the appropriate hygiene treatment for you.
Q: Do you accept new patient referrals?
A: Over the years, patients have given us the compliment of referring family and friends to our practice. Our reputation for excellent dental care depends on two things: our good work and your beautiful smile. Your confidence in our care motivates us to continue to strive for excellence.
Thank you for your referrals. Your trust and support are greatly appreciated.
Nighttime Gritting of Teeth/NightGuard
Q: My teeth keep chipping and cracking. What causes this? What can I do about it?
A: Many people who notice chipped or cracked teeth, but don't remember when the injury occurred, damaged their teeth while they were sleeping. Grinding or clenching your teeth during the night will cause your teeth to chip, crack, and even break. To keep you from seriously damaging your teeth, we recommend a dental appliance called a night-guard. A custom fitted NightGuard protects your teeth from grinding & clenching in your sleep. Dr. Heilman takes great care in making sure you have a proper fit to prevent pain in your jaw joint. Do you suffer from headaches? You may find that a side benefit of your NightGuard is headache prevention. Many headaches start during the night, caused by the extreme pressure generated as you grind and clench your teeth. Ask us about having a NightGuard custom created for you.
Payment
Q: I want and need a lot of dental work, but I'm afraid I can't afford it. Do you offer monthly payment plans?
A: Yes, we do offer monthly payment plans with our financial partners, Care Credit™ and Wells Fargo. We provide a variety of ways for you to pay for your treatment so that it fits comfortably into your personal or family financial goals. We work with you to create the solution that accommodates you so you can have the beautiful, healthy smile you have always desired.
Q: I want cosmetic dentistry. Does my insurance pay for it?
A: Dental insurance is designed to assist you in paying for your dentistry. Most procedures are not fully covered by your insurance. Cosmetic dentistry, in particular, is not covered by most dental insurance plans. To help you afford your smile, we do offer a variety of payment options in addition to a monthly payment plan provided by our financial partners, Care Credit™ and Wells Fargo. We also pay special attention to maximizing the benefits that your insurance does provide. Ask us how you can comfortably afford your dentistry and maximize your dental insurance benefits.
Q: What different payment options do you provide?
A: Helping to make your dental care financially comfortable and affordable is important, and we proudly offer a variety of options:
- "Same As Cash"
No interest credit line
12 month plan - Extended Payment Plan
24-60 month duration
No down payment required
No pre-payment penalty – some restrictions apply - Three Equal Monthly Payments
25% initial down payment guaranteed with major credit card/bank draft - "Pre-Payment" Plan
Treatment begins after comfortable monthly payments are made that equal the estimated patient portion. - Cash or personal checks
- 5% courtesy on all pre-paid treatment that is $500 or more
- VISA/MasterCard
We are happy to estimate fees and insurance reimbursement before starting recommended treatments and will gladly file insurance forms for you.
Optimal, comprehensive dentistry is what we practice and we do not base our treatment on what insurance will or will not pay. We base our treatment on what is best for you and any treatment not paid by insurance is your financial responsibility.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Q: My gums bleed. Why is this?
A: Gums affected by periodontal disease become red and inflamed, often bleeding during brushing or flossing. Timely treatment can reverse these conditions. However, if these conditions are ignored, your periodontal disease can worsen, becoming a condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis is much more difficult to treat.
Periodontitis affects your gums, bone, and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. To prevent tooth loss, you may require more extensive, specialized treatment from Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS or even a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss – teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted. If you don't diagnose and treat periodontitis in its early stages, you may require extensive surgery to save your teeth and may put yourself at risk for other serious health problems. Contact our office to set up an evaluation appointment.
Q: What is periodontal disease?
A: Gums affected by periodontal disease become red and inflamed, often times bleeding during brushing or flossing. If treated in a timely manner, these conditions can be reversed, preventing periodontitis from developing. Periodontitis is much more difficult to treat.
Periodontitis affects your gums, bone and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. To prevent tooth loss, you may require more extensive, specialized treatment from your general dentist or even a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss – teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted. If you don't catch periodontitis in its early stages, you may require extensive surgery to save your teeth and may put yourself at risk for other serious health problems.
Evidence suggests that the natural inflammatory response associated with periodontal disease is systemic and affects the entire body. Emerging science indicates that there is a link between oral health and overall health. Research is showing that periodontal disease may contribute to serious health problems and conditions such as heart disease and stroke, diabetes,respiratory disease, and pre-term low birth-weight babies. One research study shows that periodontal disease may even increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. So, an early diagnosis may help save your life, as well as your teeth.
Sealants
Q: How do sealants protect teeth?
A: A sealant is a plastic material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—premolars and molars. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids and guarding against disease-causing bacteria.
Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. However, toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to efficiently extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by "sealing out" plaque and food.
Tooth Pain
Q: Sometimes when I chew I get a sharp pain. What can I do to correct this?
A: Most dental pain brought on by chewing is caused by a fracture, or crack, in the tooth. The pain can be corrected by placing a porcelain crown or by receiving more advanced treatment. You want to correct the pain as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth. Contact us today to schedule a visit.
Veneers
Q: How can porcelain veneers help my smile?
A: Porcelain veneers improve your smile by correcting a multitude of cosmetic concerns, including gaps in teeth; chips and broken teeth, dull or yellowing teeth that cannot be whitened with traditional means, "gummy smile" (showing too much gum when one smiles), and crooked teeth. Porcelain veneers broaden, straighten, whiten, and beautify most any smile. This procedure can be done in as little as two clinical visits. Many of our patients feel like this was the best improvement that could have been done for their overall confidence. Ask us about how porcelain veneers can improve your smile at your next visit, or send us an email.
Whitening
Q: I want my teeth to be whiter. Do you recommend at-home or in-office whitening?
A: Dentist directed at-home whitening and in-office whitening procedures are both effective ways of brightening your smile. In either case, Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS customizes the treatment to ensure your happiness with the results.
Your custom home whitening kit involves a special tray that is customized to fit over your teeth. You also receive prescription whitening gel, which is inserted into the tray before you wear it. Dr. Heilman gives you detailed instructions about how long you should wear the tray each day and you should expect the entire home whitening process to take between two and four weeks, leaving you with a dazzling smile.
If you desire immediate results, visit Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS for an in-the-office whitening procedure. Again, the treatment utilizes a special tray that fits around your teeth. However, with Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS's supervision, a much more powerful whitening gel is used, giving you amazing results in just a few hours!
Q: Is tooth whitening safe?
A: Yes, with supervised care from Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS and his team, whitening your teeth can be safe. Some patients experience sensitivity from whitening. Therefore, your Shreveport Louisiana dentist Paul Heilman DDS may recommend taking Ibuprofen or Tylenol immediately prior to whitening to reduce sensitivity.
Q: How can I keep my teeth bright?
A: Many people continue tooth whitening as part of their ongoing maintenance to keep their teeth bright well beyond the initial treatment. In addition, to keep both your natural teeth and restorations their brightest self, we recommend avoiding ongoing consumption of the following things that may cause staining:
- Red Wine
- Coffee
- Tea
- Tobacco Products
- Grape Juice
- Dark Colored Beverages
- Berries
For best results to keep your teeth bright, use toothpaste with whitening agents and use at-home tooth whitening products prescribed by Dr. Heilman at least once a week. The best time to whiten your teeth at-home is directly after a hygiene professional cleaning appointment.