Informed Patients Are Smart Patients

We Have Answers
to Your Dental FAQs

At Midlands Family Dentistry in West Columbia, SC, we are committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health through our comprehensive preventive dental care services. With regular teeth cleaning, we can help you avoid more extensive dental procedures in the future and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common dental problems, and how can I prevent them?

The most common dental problems we see include tooth decay, gum disease, and missing teeth. We recommend brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks to prevent tooth decay. To prevent gum disease, practicing good oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important. We also offer oral cancer screenings as part of our dental exams. By taking a proactive approach to oral health, we can help our patients avoid common dental problems and maintain a healthy smile for life.

What are the different types of dental services that you offer?

At Midlands Family Dentistry, we offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. Our services include preventative care, such as cleanings and X-Rays. We also offer restorative services, such as fillings, crowns and implants to repair damaged or missing teeth. Our additional services include teeth extractions, sleep appliances, clear aligners, and more!

What payment options do you offer for dental services?

Midlands Family Dentistry submits claims with all commercial insurance policies. Payment is expected at the time of service. We accept cash, checks, and debit or credit cards.

Learn more about our payment options

How often should I see a dentist for a check-up?

We recommend that our patients visit us for a routine dental check-up at least once every six months. However, the frequency of your visits may vary depending on your individual needs and oral health. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing common dental problems. If you have any concerns about the frequency of your dental visits, we encourage you to speak with one of our dental professionals.

What are the benefits of teeth whitening, and is it safe?
Teeth whitening has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its numerous benefits, including boosting self-confidence, improving appearance, and enhancing overall oral health. At Midlands Family Dentistry, we offer safe and effective teeth whitening treatments that are customized to meet the unique needs of each patient. We use only dentist-approved methods and materials to ensure the safety and effectiveness of our treatments.
What is a dental implant, and how is it placed?

You probably know someone who had a hip or knee replaced, because it didn’t work right anymore or caused a lot of pain. After a knee replacement, patients often regain mobility they haven’t felt in years. A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that is placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. The implant is typically made of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone to create a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.

We offer easy solutions to obtaining dental implants

What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
A crown is a prosthetic cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. A filling, on the other hand, is a material that is used to fill a cavity in a tooth. Crowns are typically used for more extensive damage or decay, while fillings are used for smaller cavities.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you have a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, severe pain, or bleeding, it’s important to seek immediate dental care. If you have a life-threatening emergency, go to the nearest emergency room for treatment.

What is the best way to replace a missing tooth?

The best way to replace a missing tooth depends on several factors, including the location of the missing tooth, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and the patient’s preferences and budget. At Midlands Family Dentistry, we offer several options for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants and bridges.

What if my dental insurance doesn't cover this?

Dental insurance isn’t insurance. Insurance is a financial safeguard against a loss. “Dental insurance” is a partial reimbursement plan for basic dental treatment, usually offered by an employer as a benefit for employees. Having dental insurance does help offset costs, and it’s a nice benefit. We strive to help you make the best decisions for your health, we do not believe in treating you according to the rules and limitations of a corporation.

Why do I need fluoride? Isn't that for kids?

Because we want you to keep your teeth! We love fixing teeth, but keeping your teeth healthy is better than repairs. Fluoride is a safe way to prevent dental cavities. Yes, children who have fluoride experience 50% less dental work than kids who don’t. Like the chewable vitamins you might have had for your kids, as we age, fluoride becomes increasingly important, again. Adults who have fluoride treatments get about 30% less dental work than adults who don’t. That’s fewer visits to the dentist, less pain, and less cost!

Didn’t answer your question? Give us a call at 803-731-0803 or send us a message!