Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Isolite system?

Dr. Rosenfeld loves our Isolite system! It illuminates, suctions, and blocks/protects the patient’s cheeks and lips during procedures. This innovative technology is more comfortable for you, and it’s a major asset in optimizing clinical procedures.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are thin, plastic coatings, which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. These chewing surfaces, called molars, have irregular pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacteria debris. Sealants flow in to coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay. See our patient education flyer about dental sealants here.

My tooth broke years ago. It has been replaced by bonding several times. I would like something permanent. What should I do?

Bonding on tooth-colored fillings is porous and can discolor because it is made of a resin material. A porcelain crown or veneer would probably provide you with a stronger and more cosmetic tooth. Porcelain will not change color as fast or as easy. It is laboratory-processed so it is not porous and is made of a much stronger, longer-lasting material. Using our computer shade matching system, we can select a color that is right for you.

If I have a toothache, how fast will I be seen?

Our office tries to see anyone with pain or a cosmetic embarrassment, such as a broken front tooth or lost crown, immediately! You should not have to wait if you are in pain. With evening availability and office hours seven days a week, our schedule is truly unmatched.

I've heard so much about Lumineers – what are they exactly?

Lumineers are made of a super-thin, patented Cerinate Porcelain, and they can be placed directly over existing teeth without removing sensitive tooth structure. Some of the benefits of choosing Lumineers include:

• No shots
• No painful tooth reduction
• No anesthesia or drilling
• Can be placed in only two dental visits
• Proven to last for decades through clinical studies
• Can be placed over existing restorations, including crowns

If I need a filling, will it be silver?

All of our fillings are tooth-colored, keeping with our desire to provide the most cosmetically pleasing result possible while maintaining a high level of clinical quality.

My dentures are loose. Is there anything that can be done?

Sometimes, dentures can be relined; other times, they need to be replaced. Today, there are modern dental implants available that basically replace the roots of teeth, helping dentures stay firmly in place!

I have a tooth missing. How can I replace it?

Missing teeth can be replaced by implants, porcelain bridges, or removable partials. Partials are the least comfortable due to their removable nature. Bridges are made of porcelain and can cosmetically improve the teeth around the missing tooth. Dental implants involve only the space left by the missing tooth and are the preferred option for most patients.

What is a root canal?

A root canal replaces the affected nerve and tissue inside the tooth with an inert filling material that fills the space on the root so that there will be no room for infection.

My tooth hurts. Why do I need a root canal?

Oftentimes, deep decay or deep fillings will cause inflammation, creating pressure inside the tooth. Sometimes, teeth will become dead due to trauma, deep decay, or deep fillings. This can cause an infection in the bone. In both cases, the inside of the tooth needs to be cleaned out, disinfected, and filled.

How old should my child be when he goes to the dentist for the first time?

Children should be seen as soon as their teeth emerge into their mouth.

I would like my teeth whitened but do not wish to use the night trays. Is there a fast alternative?

Yes. Our office offers a fast, in-office whitening system that can completed while you are comfortably watching television.

How soon after fillings are done can I eat?

Our tooth-colored fillings are hardened by halogen light. As soon as you are done, they are ready to be used and you can eat immediately!

Do you see children?

All members of the family and all ages are welcome.

What sterilization procedures do you practice?

As a matter of policy, we use as many disposable items as possible, and water lines are disinfected regularly. Every room is thoroughly cleaned between each patient. An integral part of our state-of-the-art Instrument Management System is our HYDRM dishwasher, which cleans the instruments prior to final heat and steam sterilization in an autoclave. We are proud of our safety procedures and will be happy to give you a tour and discuss our sterilization procedures in further detail.

I've driven by your dental office and it looks so beautiful. What kind of amenities are there?

Each dental treatment room is equipped with a computer and TV monitor. You may view your digital X-rays on our computer or watch TV during procedures. You may even watch one of our DVD's or bring in your own. We can also discuss treatment needs and review smile options on the monitor in our private consultation room. We have purchased new dental equipment to better serve your needs, including a sterilization area outfitted with the newest dental Instrument Management System technology.

Is your dental office handicapped accessible?

Our dental office is handicapped accessible, and parking is convenient and plentiful. See our map here.