FAQs

Offering you a variety of general dental care treatments under one roof is one thing that we take a lot of satisfaction in. Our comfortable, welcoming, and soothing atmosphere helps you to stay stress-free while you move through your dental treatments. We offer dental solutions that accommodate your cosmetic, restorative, and general dental care issues.

• One common dental treatment used for general care is regular check-ups and cleanings. Dentists recommend getting these every six months to detect any potential issues early on and remove plaque buildup that can lead to tooth decay or gum disease.
• Another popular treatment is fillings. When a cavity occurs, dentists use fillings made from materials like composite resin or porcelain to restore the affected tooth's structure and function.
• For those with more advanced gum disease, periodontal therapy may be necessary. This treatment involves deep cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque buildup and bacteria that cause inflammation and infection.
• Tooth extraction is another option when a tooth cannot be saved due to severe damage or decay. Dentists perform this procedure carefully, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient.
• In cases where teeth are missing or severely damaged, restorative options such as dental implants or bridges may be recommended. These treatments not only improve aesthetics but also restore functionality for easier chewing and speaking.

These dental treatments play a vital role in maintaining good oral hygiene while addressing general dental care concerns effectively.

The cost of dental care can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of procedure needed, the complexity of the treatment, and even the location. In Albuquerque specifically, while some may argue that dental care can be pricey, there are also options available for those seeking more affordable solutions.

Our treatment administrators are here to counsel our patients on exactly how to take advantage of their insurance benefits to get the most out of their year-to-year allocations. Review your current dental insurance policy to understand what services are covered and if there are any restrictions on which providers you can see. If you don't have insurance, consider exploring discount dental plans, which can help reduce costs for routine check-ups and other procedures.

We also have a variety of payment and financing options that are geared toward assisting our patients to cover the cost of dentistry and dental care needs.

Patient satisfaction plays a pivotal role in the success of any dental practice. When patients have a positive experience and feel satisfied with their general dental care, they are more likely to become loyal, long-term patients who refer others to your practice. Valued patients who have visited the dental practice of Dr. Michael Armijo for their dental treatments with Dr. Michael Armijo have provided their Albuquerque dental care reviews and testimonials. From that, you can find out what you can expect at our dental office during your treatment.

Patients expect their dentist to be knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced. They want assurance that they are receiving the best possible treatment for their oral health needs. Dr. Michael Armijo, who takes the time to explain procedures and answer questions, goes a long way in building trust and satisfaction. Clear explanations about treatment options, potential risks or side effects, as well as costs involved, help patients make informed decisions and feel more satisfied with their choices.

After undergoing general dental care treatments, you can expect to see a range of positive results that will leave you with a healthier and more confident smile. One of the most common outcomes is improved oral hygiene and overall dental health. Regular cleanings and check-ups help remove plaque buildup, preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Another noticeable result is the enhancement of your smile's appearance. Treatments such as teeth whitening can brighten your teeth several shades, giving you a more youthful and vibrant smile. Additionally, procedures like dental bonding or veneers can correct chips, cracks, or gaps in your teeth for a seamless and natural-looking finish. General dental care treatments also aim to address any existing issues with your bite or alignment. Correcting misaligned teeth not only improves aesthetics but also enhances functionality by ensuring proper jaw alignment for biting and chewing.

These treatments often include preventive measures that contribute to long-term oral health maintenance. Your dentist may recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking or improving dietary habits to prevent future problems.

It is generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, this may vary depending on your individual oral health needs. Your dentist will assess your situation and determine an appropriate schedule for you.

Regular dental appointments are crucial in preventing potential issues from escalating into more significant complications. By visiting your dentist every six months, individuals can benefit from comprehensive examinations and thorough cleanings performed by their skilled team of professionals. These appointments allow for the early detection and treatment of common dental problems such as cavities or gum disease, ultimately saving patients from potentially extensive treatments down the road.

Additionally, regular visits enable dentists to monitor any existing restorations like fillings or crowns, ensuring their longevity and effectiveness. Moreover, these consultations serve as an excellent opportunity for patients to discuss any concerns they may have about their oral health and receive personalized advice on at-home care practices tailored specifically for them. With its unwavering commitment to patient satisfaction and well-being, Northtowne Dental encourages individuals to prioritize regular check-ups in order to maintain healthy smiles throughout their lives.

Maintaining good oral health is essential, and there are several measures that can be taken right at home to ensure a healthy smile. By implementing a consistent dental hygiene routine, individuals can effectively care for their teeth and gums on a daily basis.

• We recommend starting with regular brushing using a fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes twice a day. It is crucial to pay attention to proper brushing technique, making gentle circular motions along the gum line and all tooth surfaces.
• Incorporating flossing into one's daily routine is imperative in order to clean between teeth where the brush cannot reach. This helps remove plaque buildup and prevent gum disease.
• Mouthwashes that contain antimicrobial properties are also beneficial as they reduce bacteria levels in the mouth while freshening breath simultaneously.
• It is important not to overlook tongue cleaning as part of an effective oral hygiene regimen; gently scraping or brushing the tongue's surface helps eliminate harmful bacteria responsible for bad breath.
• Maintaining a balanced diet low in sugary foods is vital since sugar promotes bacterial growth, leading to cavities and other dental issues over time.

By following these recommendations from Northtowne Dental diligently within the comfort of your own home, you will be taking significant steps toward achieving optimal oral health.

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist due to pain, discomfort, or potential damage to your teeth and oral health. These types of emergencies can happen unexpectedly and may require urgent treatment to prevent further complications. Some common examples of dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken or chipped teeth, abscesses, and lost fillings or crowns. Any injury to the mouth or jaw that causes bleeding or swelling should also be considered a dental emergency.

In addition to physical trauma or injuries, certain oral health issues can also be considered dental emergencies. For example, if you have a severe infection in your gums or around a tooth root, this could be considered an emergency as it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Another factor to consider when determining if something is a dental emergency is the level of pain you are experiencing. If the pain is severe and impacting your daily activities and quality of life, it is important to seek immediate care from a dentist.

It's worth noting that not all tooth-related issues are considered emergencies. For instance, minor toothaches that come and go may not require urgent care unless they become more severe over time. Additionally, while losing a filling or crown may cause discomfort and inconvenience, it does not necessarily constitute an emergency unless it is causing extreme pain or exposing the sensitive inner layers of your tooth.

In case of a dental emergency, it is important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to get immediate care. Dental emergencies can happen at any time and can be caused by various reasons such as accidents, sudden pain or discomfort, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Here are some steps you should follow in case of a dental emergency:

1. Assess the Situation: The first thing you should do is assess the situation. Is it a minor issue that can wait until regular office hours, or does it require immediate attention? If there is severe bleeding or intense pain, it is considered a dental emergency and requires prompt treatment.

2. Contact Your Dentist: In case of a dental emergency, your dentist should be your first point of contact. They will be able to provide guidance on what to do next and may even arrange for an emergency appointment if necessary.

3. Stop Bleeding: If there is any bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze pad to the affected area until it stops. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water to help control bleeding.

4. Handle Dislodged Teeth Carefully: If one or more teeth have been knocked out completely, handle them carefully by holding them by the crown (top) rather than the root (bottom). Rinse off any dirt or debris with water, but do not scrub or touch the roots.

5. Place Tooth Back into Socket (if possible): If you are able to place the tooth back into its socket within 30 minutes, do so carefully. If you are unable to do so, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva and bring it with you to the dentist.

6. Manage Swelling and Pain: You can apply a cold compress or ice pack on the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain medication can also be taken for temporary relief.

7. Protect Chipped or Broken Teeth: If a tooth is chipped or broken, try to save any pieces that have come off. Rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental wax or sugarless gum to cover any sharp edges until you can see your dentist.

Remember, the key to handling a dental emergency is to stay calm and act quickly. Seeking professional care as soon as possible can help prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health.

• Teeth Whitening

  Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic dental procedures. This procedure involves using bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth, resulting in a brighter and whiter smile. There are various options for teeth whitening, including in-office treatments or at-home kits prescribed by your dentist.

• Dental Veneers

  Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. These veneers can improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, misaligned, or have gaps between them. They provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for achieving a perfect smile.

• Dental Bonding

  Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the teeth and hardened with a special light. It can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, fill in gaps between teeth, or improve the appearance of discolored teeth. Bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to enhance the appearance of your smile.

• Dental Crowns

  Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over damaged or discolored teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They can be made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of materials and are custom-made to blend in with your natural teeth.

• Full Smile Makeover

  For those seeking a complete transformation of their smile, a full smile makeover may be the best option. This comprehensive treatment plan combines various cosmetic procedures to address multiple dental concerns and achieve your desired results.

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) Same Day Crowns are a popular option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They offer a convenient and efficient solution to traditional crowns, as they can be completed in just one dental visit. However, many people may wonder if they are eligible candidates for this treatment.

It is important to note that CEREC Same Day Crowns are suitable for most patients in need of dental crown restorations. These crowns can be used to fix various dental issues, such as cracked or chipped teeth, large cavities, and even tooth discoloration. They are also a great option for those who have had a root canal treatment or need to cover a dental implant. Most people can receive CEREC same-day crowns as long as they have a stable and healthy oral foundation. However, it is important to consult with a dentist to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.

The primary reason is to save your natural tooth. Before advances in dentistry, a severely damaged or infected tooth would have to be extracted. However, with root canal treatment, the majority of affected teeth can now be saved. During a root canal procedure, your dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp from inside your tooth. The inside of the tooth will then be cleaned and disinfected before being filled with a special material called gutta-percha. A crown is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its function.

By removing the infected tissue from inside your tooth through root canal treatment, you not only save your natural tooth but also prevent further damage and infection from spreading to other areas of your mouth. It also eliminates any pain or discomfort caused by an infection in the pulp.

Here are some tips on how to care for your dentures:

• Clean them daily: Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned every day to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush to gently clean all surfaces of the denture. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it may be too abrasive and could damage the denture.
• Soak them overnight: Dentures should be soaked in a denture cleanser or water overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. This also helps in removing any stains or tartar build-up.
• Handle with care: When handling your dentures, make sure to do so over a folded towel or sink filled with water. This will cushion the fall if you accidentally drop them, preventing any damage.
• Brush your gums and palate: It is important to brush your gums, tongue, and palate before putting on your dentures in the morning and after taking them off at night. This helps stimulate blood flow and removes any bacteria that could cause gum disease.
• Avoid hot water: Do not use hot water when cleaning or soaking your dentures, as it can deform their shape.
• Rinse after eating: If you have had something sticky or sugary like candy, rinse your mouth and dentures with water immediately after eating. This will help prevent plaque build-up and tooth decay.
• Regular dental check-ups: It is important to continue seeing your dentist regularly even after getting dentures. Your dentist can check for any changes in the fit of your dentures and make adjustments if necessary.
• Handle repairs professionally: If your denture breaks or cracks, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Take it to your dentist for professional repair.

Remember to be patient when getting used to new dentures, as it may take some time to adjust to them. With proper care and maintenance, your dentures can help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.