FAQs
Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Visit and Beyond.
What can I expect during my first appointment at Mathews Dental Group?
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Your first visit is designed to be thorough, unhurried, and entirely centered around you. Dr. Mathews-Bryant and our clinical team will conduct a comprehensive oral health evaluation, including a full review of your dental and medical history, digital diagnostic imaging as needed, a periodontal assessment, and an oral cancer screening. We'll take the time to understand your goals, address any concerns, and develop a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs. From the moment you arrive, our priority is that you feel informed, comfortable, and genuinely cared for.
How often should I schedule a dental exam and professional cleaning?
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For most patients, we recommend a comprehensive exam and professional cleaning every six months. However, patients with a history of periodontal disease, a higher susceptibility to decay, or certain systemic health conditions may benefit from more frequent visits, typically every three to four months. During your evaluation, Dr. Mathews-Bryant will recommend a recall schedule that reflects your individual oral health profile.
What is the difference between a routine cleaning and a deep cleaning?
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A routine prophylaxis, or preventive cleaning, removes plaque and calculus deposits from above and just below the gumline and is appropriate for patients with healthy gums or mild gingivitis. A deep cleaning, clinically referred to as scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure indicated for patients diagnosed with periodontitis. It involves the meticulous removal of bacterial deposits from below the gumline and along the root surfaces to halt the progression of gum disease and promote periodontal healing. Dr. Mathews-Bryant will assess your periodontal health at each visit and recommend the appropriate level of care.
Do you accept dental insurance, and how does billing work?
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We welcome most major PPO dental insurance plans and are happy to submit claims on your behalf as a courtesy. Because our practice is committed to providing care that is never dictated by insurance limitations, we will always present you with the full scope of recommended treatment and work transparently with you to maximize your available benefits. For any out-of-pocket portions, we offer flexible financing options to ensure that exceptional care remains accessible. Our knowledgeable administrative team is always available to walk you through your coverage in detail.
What financing options are available for treatment?
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We believe that cost should never be a barrier to the care you deserve. Mathews Dental Group offers flexible, interest-free and extended payment plan options through trusted third-party financing partners. Our team will work with you to identify a solution that fits your budget without compromising the quality of your treatment. We encourage you to ask about financing options during your consultation or when scheduling your appointment.
Digital radiography is exceptionally safe and emits up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. We use the most current low-dose digital imaging technology to capture detailed diagnostic images with minimal exposure. For most adult patients, a full series of radiographs is recommended every three to five years, with annual bitewing X-rays to monitor for interproximal decay and bone changes. The frequency of imaging is always individualized based on your clinical presentation, risk factors, and dental history.
Are digital X-rays safe? How often do I need them?
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What are the signs of gum disease, and how is it treated?
Periodontal disease often progresses silently, which is why regular professional evaluations are essential. Common indicators include bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, persistent halitosis, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, or changes in your bite. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition — early-stage gingivitis is typically reversible with a professional cleaning and improved home care, while more advanced periodontitis may require scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy, or referral to a periodontist. Early detection is always the most effective treatment strategy.
What tooth-replacement options do you offer for missing teeth?
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Missing teeth affect far more than aesthetics — they impact your bite, bone density, and overall oral function. At Mathews Dental Group, we offer a range of restorative solutions tailored to your unique anatomy and lifestyle, including dental implants, implant-supported crowns and bridges, fixed dental bridges, and removable partial or full dentures. Dr. Mathews-Bryant will conduct a thorough evaluation and discuss the advantages and considerations of each option so you can make a fully informed decision.
What is an oral cancer screening and why is it important?
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An oral cancer screening is a painless, non-invasive examination of the soft and hard tissues of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat. Dr. Mathews-Bryant performs this screening at every comprehensive exam as a standard of care. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, and certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). We take this screening seriously because early intervention saves lives.
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The appropriate restoration depends on the extent of tooth damage or decay, as well as the structural integrity of the remaining tooth. A composite resin filling is typically indicated for smaller areas of decay where sufficient healthy tooth structure remains. A dental crown, or full-coverage restoration, is recommended when a tooth is significantly compromised — due to extensive decay, fracture, post-root canal treatment, or wear — and requires full structural support and protection. Dr. Mathews-Bryant will evaluate your tooth and present the most conservative, clinically sound option for your situation.
How do I know if I need a crown versus a filling?
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, including severe tooth pain, a knocked-out or fractured tooth, a lost restoration, soft tissue injury, or swelling, please contact our office immediately. We reserve time in our daily schedule to accommodate urgent patient needs and will make every effort to see you the same day. In the case of facial trauma, significant swelling, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, please proceed to your nearest emergency room or call 911.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
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How do you manage patient comfort and dental anxiety?
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We understand that dental anxiety is real, and we take it seriously. Our practice is designed — from the environment to the pace of care — with your comfort as a guiding principle. Dr. Mathews-Bryant and our team are experienced in working with anxious patients and take a gentle, communicative approach at every step. We also offer nitrous oxide sedation for patients who benefit from additional relaxation support during treatment. Please let us know about any concerns when you schedule your appointment so we can prepare accordingly.
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What is the difference between a porcelain crown and a zirconia crown?
Both porcelain and zirconia are tooth-colored, metal-free restorative materials, but they differ in composition and application. Porcelain crowns — particularly all-ceramic options — offer exceptional aesthetics and are ideal for front teeth where translucency and natural light reflection are priorities. Zirconia crowns are renowned for their superior strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for posterior teeth that endure significant chewing forces. In many cases, layered zirconia offers both strength and lifelike aesthetics. Dr. Mathews-Bryant will recommend the most appropriate material based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your aesthetic goals.
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How do I maintain my oral health between visits?
Consistent home care is the foundation of lasting oral health. We recommend brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste — ideally with an electric toothbrush for superior plaque removal — and flossing or using an interdental cleaner once daily. Tongue cleaning, the use of an antimicrobial or fluoride rinse when indicated, and staying well-hydrated all contribute to a healthy oral environment. We'll tailor home care recommendations to your specific needs during each visit, because effective oral hygiene looks different for every patient.
Do you offer teeth whitening, and what options are available?
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Yes. We offer both in-office and take-home professional whitening treatments for patients who are candidates for bleaching therapy. Our in-office whitening delivers immediate, dramatic results in a single visit using a high-concentration professional-grade bleaching agent. Our custom take-home whitening systems use precision-fitted trays and a professional-strength gel to achieve gradual, controlled results in the comfort of your home. During your consultation, we'll evaluate your enamel health, existing restorations, and shade goals to determine which approach is best suited for you.
At what age should children have their first dental visit?
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The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first dental visit occur by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth — whichever comes first. Early visits allow us to monitor dental development, establish healthy habits from the start, and create a positive, comfortable relationship with dental care that can last a lifetime. Please contact our team to discuss whether our practice is the right fit for your child's care.
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Bruxism is the clinical term for habitual teeth grinding or clenching, which often occurs during sleep. Left untreated, bruxism can lead to significant enamel wear, tooth fracture, jaw pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Treatment typically begins with a custom-fabricated occlusal guard — also known as a night guard — worn during sleep to protect the teeth and reduce muscular strain. In more complex cases, we may recommend occlusal equilibration, stress management strategies, or referral to a specialist. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage.
What is bruxism and how is it treated?
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How long do dental restorations typically last?
The longevity of a dental restoration depends on the material used, the location in the mouth, your bite forces, and the quality of your home care. As a general guide, composite resin fillings typically last 7 to 10 years, porcelain or zirconia crowns 15 to 20 years or longer, and dental implants can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. No restoration is permanent, but with excellent oral hygiene and regular professional monitoring, your restorations can serve you well for many years. We'll assess the integrity of all existing restorations at each visit.
What is the importance of replacing old silver amalgam fillings?
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While amalgam restorations have been used reliably for decades, many patients choose to have them replaced for aesthetic, functional, or health-related reasons. Over time, amalgam fillings can corrode, expand, and contract with temperature changes — potentially leading to micro-fractures in the surrounding tooth structure. Replacing them with modern tooth-colored composite or ceramic restorations can restore both the appearance and structural integrity of the tooth. Dr. Mathews-Bryant will evaluate the condition of any existing amalgam restorations and discuss your options transparently, without unnecessary treatment recommendations.
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We'd love to welcome you. Scheduling your first appointment is simple — you can reserve your visit online through our website or by calling our office directly. Upon booking, you'll receive new patient forms digitally so you can complete them at your convenience before your arrival. We recommend gathering any recent dental records or X-rays from your previous provider, as these can be valuable in establishing your care with us. From your very first interaction with our team, our goal is to make you feel that you've found a dental home that truly puts you first.
How do I get started as a new patient at Mathews Dental Group?
Have a question that isn't answered here? We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to our team directly, we're always happy to help.