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.

TMJ and TMD in Concord, NC

TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint, which is a medical way of saying jaw joint. Clinically, we refer to problems associated with the jaw joint as TMJ SYNDROME or TMD (disorder). Most patients just call it TMJ as do most referring ENT physicians. This disorder often presents itself as some degree of pain with a popping sound in the joint.

Who can have TMJ Syndrome?

TMJ problems can afflict people of all ages, although patients under 40 are more susceptible and it occurs more frequently in women than men. This region is located below your ear, right where your jawbone connects to the skull. While there remains a lack of evidence on all the causes of this syndrome, arthritis, sudden trauma to the joint, or untreated bruxism may be culprits.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms may not always be the same, but these often include pain in or near the joint, a popping or grating sensation during movement, or if the joint ends up seemingly stuck. Get in touch with a specialist in dentistry in Concord, NC, once you experience the following:

Headaches
Ear aches, stuffiness, or ringing in the ears
Pain or soreness in or around the jaw joints
Dizziness
Tightnes of the jaw joint...difficult to open wide
Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joint
Neck, shoulder, or back pain
Facial pain
Sensitive teeth...loosening of some teeth

In some cases, TMJ may feel like a lingering or vague toothache. If any of the symptoms mentioned above are not going away, schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist in Concord, NC.

What is the treatment?

Be sure to reach out to our dentists and begin treatment immediately. Consult with Dr. Compton for a diagnosis and TMJ Treatments in Concord NC. TMJ is a great imitator and often feels like a vague toothache. Most often, the jaw muscles have been overworked and are fatigued. Acrylic splints (night guards) are effective in controlling the symptoms for many patients. Our entire staff has suffered from TMJ symptoms and we all wear some type of nighttime appliance. We KNOW your pain and can help in most cases.

We may also discuss certain medications to help patients alleviate the pain and discomfort. Jaw exercises can also be helpful. Should we determine that the problem is caused by a misaligned bite, Dr. Compton may look into aligning the bite properly to address the problem effectively.