Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Great Lakes Family Dental locations are always accepting new patients and are often able to schedule appointments the same day. Your first visit will usually include an appointment with the doctor for a comprehensive exam and all necessary x-rays. During this appointment you can speak with the dentist about any specific trouble areas or concerns. Emergency visits are seen same day.

Generally speaking, adults and children should visit the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning. Certain patients may require more frequent visits to maintain optimal oral health. Visiting the dentist "only when it hurts" may be cause for more extensive, and expensive dental care.

It is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss as well!

The American Dental Association advocates brushing after each meal. The best way to be sure you are caring for your teeth properly is to discuss your homecare techniques and needs with your dentist or hygienist.

Current standards in the dental field strongly recommend that a patient’s first visit with a new dentist include a comprehensive oral examination and any necessary x-rays. This ensures that the dentist has a full and clear picture of your mouth and oral health before proceeding with care. If a cleaning is the proper next course of treatment, appointments are often available the same day.

Visit the page of the Great Lakes Family Dental location you would like to visit. There you can call to make an appointment or request an appointment online.

Replace your toothbrush every three months. For patients with periodontal disease, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush every four to six weeks. If you have been sick, be sure to replace your toothbrush as soon as possible. It is recommended to read the instructions or replacement guides for electric toothbrushes as they may need to be replaced more frequently.

Each Great Lakes Family Dental dentist is fully licensed in the state in which they practice.

Sealants are a thin plastic coating painted on chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They act as a barrier, protecting your teeth against decay-causing bacteria. The sealant bonds to the grooves in your teeth forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Sealants have proven effective at preventing cavities in adults as well as children, but are most commonly used on children. Ask your dentist whether sealants are a good choice for your family.

Flossing reduces the number of bacteria in your mouth. There are millions of these microscopic creatures feeding on food particles left on your teeth. These bacteria live in plaque which can be removed by flossing. Brushing your teeth gets rid of some of the bacteria in your mouth. Flossing gets rid of the bacteria the toothbrush can't get to. That's the bacteria hiding in the tiny spaces between your teeth. If you do not floss, you allow plaque to remain between your teeth, and eventually it may harden into calculus/tartar. Plaque can be removed by brushing. Only the dentist or dental hygienist can remove calculus/tartar. Ask your dental professional to show you the proper way to floss. You will both notice the difference at the next cleaning appointment.

A dentist uses a filling to fill a cavity. First all tooth decay is removed, and then a synthetic material is used to fill the hole. Filling can be made from a variety of different materials including composites, gold, or ceramic, and can be made to match the color of your teeth.

A cavity is a small hole on the surface of your tooth caused by tooth decay. Cavities form when plaque builds up on your tooth and combines with sugar from the foods you eat, creating an acid that eats away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by brushing and flossing regularly.

For serious injuries to your mouth or jaw, go to the nearest hospital emergency room. For other dental emergencies including toothaches and pain, contact our office for a same-day appointment. If your emergency is taking place when the office is closed, please call to leave a message or for instructions on how to reach the dentist after hours.

Great Lakes Family Dental offices accept Essential Dental, a discount dental plan that provides immediate savings on dental care for you and your family. The plan has no waiting period and no annual maximums. Individual, 2 individuals and family memberships are available starting at $99. For more details and to enroll, visit essentialdentalplan.com. Essential Dental is not insurance.

New patients should arrive 10-15 minutes early to their first appointment. This gives time to review any insurance benefits, practice policies, and complete necessary paperwork.