Can I replace my old fillings?

Yes. Silver fillings (amalgams) have served the profession well in the past, but are being replaced by bonded white fillings.

Will insurance cover my cosmetic dentistry treatments?

Occasionally insurance will assist if the reason for the dentistry is deemed necessary. If the sole reason for the dentistry is cosmetics, don’t expect much success.

Are silver (amalgam) fillings safe?

This is a controversial area with strong supporters on both sides. Dr. Compton has had at least 20 silver fillings in his mouth since his teenage years and has never missed a day of work in 36 years. We utilize very few silver fillings nowadays because modern dentistry provides a much better option. Why use such a noticeable restoration when we have quality white fillings now?

How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?

We don’t use a cookie cutter approach. Some patients need their teeth cleaned every three months while we see some only every two years. After coming to us for a few years, we can decide what will work for you.

As a child, Dr. Compton went to a rough dentist and became as frightened of a dentist as anyone. In his senior year in high school, Dr. Compton went to a dentist that was gentle and did not hurt. This dentist actually talked Dr. Compton into becoming a dentist. It is Dr. Compton’s goal to be as gentle and pain-free as possible. He can relate to your fear and can help you overcome it.

If a tooth has a root canal, why does it need a crown?

A root canal removes the nerve in the tooth but also removes the blood supply. This dries the tooth out over time. Like a tree that loses it sap, the tooth becomes more brittle and prone to fracture. A crown acts like a helmet by taking the majority of the stress and protecting the weakened tooth.

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

Pick up the tooth by the top part making sure not to touch the root. If the tooth is dirty, it may be gently cleaned by holding it under running water (do not scrub). Store the tooth in milk or contact lens solution so it does not dry out. Go to the dentist as soon as possible, hopefully within an hour.

Do you see emergencies?

Absolutely. Dr. Compton has himself had several toothaches during his lifetime and is very empathetic to patients in pain.

Is it safe to whiten your teeth?

There have been hundreds of studies aimed at answering this very question. All the results show that tooth whitening is very safe.

What is a Digital X-Ray? and how does it differ from a traditional X-Ray?

Digital x-rays are able to be viewed immediately on a computer monitor while traditional x-rays are developed which takes several minutes. Digital x-rays reduce radiation by at least 80%. The images are clearer, more detailed and therefore easier to read. They can be sent to another office with an email. When the insurance company claims they have not received an x-ray, a digital can be sent immediately, thus expediting claims.

Do you use Nitrous Oxide?

Yes, we do. Nitrous oxide can remove that edge of nervousness that most of us feel when we have to undergo a procedure. We use disposable, pleasantly scented masks for maximum infection control.

I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What should I do if it comes off or breaks?

The temporary crown protects the underlying tooth from the harsh environment of the mouth and maintains the position of the tooth. If the temporary is left off for an extended period of time, the tooth may shift position. Then the crown may not fit properly. Mix a paste of baby powder and Vaseline and place it in the temporary and reposition it on the tooth. Avoid chewing on it and it should give you enough time to come back to the office… Please don’t leave the temporary off for days.

Our Smart Move Invisible Braces in Concord, NC

Smart Move Invisible Braces offers patients a discreet way to straighten their teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, Smart Move uses clear teeth aligners that are removable and nearly undetectable. Additionally, Smart Move is more affordable than most other aligner systems and just as effective for achieving a straighter, more attractive smile!

Smart Move Invisible Braces are a modern approach to straightening teeth courtesy of your trusted team for dentistry in Concord, NC. Instead of using metal brackets that are uncomfortable and unattractive, Smart Move uses two sets of clear, plastic aligners that gently shift teeth into place.

Smart Move’s aligner system is designed to fix various dental problems including:

While most aligner systems only move teeth up to 1/2 millimeters per stage, Smart Move’s Invisible Braces are twice as effective because they move teeth up to 1 millimeter per set of aligners.

It is important to note, however, that Smart Move Invisible Braces are designed only to treat minor misalignments of the anterior teeth. For severe cases of misalignment, Smart Move may not be the best solution. Feel free to consult Dr. Clifford C. Compton III DDS, PA, for this and other dental care needs, such as family dentistry.

The Smart Move Invisible Braces Process

Once you have decided that Smart Move Invisible Braces are for you, Dr. Compton will evaluate your oral structures in order to estimate the number of corrective stages needed for your teeth.

Next, he will make several impressions of your teeth to be sent to the Smart Move Laboratory. These impressions will be used to create your custom aligners and to gauge the exact number of steps needed to shift your teeth into proper alignment.

You will receive two aligners from Smart Move. The Smart Move process uses two aligners per setup for each stage of movement. The amount of setups needed is dependent on the patient’s case and dental needs as per the advice of your dentist in Concord, NC.

Aligner #1: created from soft and flexible material with a smooth, comfortable liner. This aligner begins the process by providing controlled movement.
Aligner #2: created from hard material that is not flexible. This aligner completes the movement for the setup.

Each aligner is worn for 2 to 3 weeks. If your teeth are not correctly aligned at the end of each setup, another impression will be taken and you will receive additional aligners until your teeth are perfectly aligned!

Caring for your Smart Move Invisible Braces

You should wear your aligners at all times except while eating, playing some musical instruments, or while playing contact sports.

Cleaning your Smart Move Invisible Braces is easy. Simply brush your aligners with toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush. You can also use DentaSOAK to clean your aligners. Pace aligners in a container filled with DentaSOAK cleaning liquid for 15 minutes then rinse with water.

NEVER use alcohol or any cleaner with alcohol to clean your aligners as this will cause damage to the material.

Visit Dr. Compton’s office for Invisible Braces in Concord, NC, with Smart Move Invisible Braces! Call us today at 704-786-8825 to begin the process of Smart Move Invisible Braces and begin the easy, pain-free road to a straighter smile! You may also fill out the online form to schedule an appointment or if you need an emergency dentist in Concord, NC.