Frequently Asked Dental Questions

During regular business hours, we recommend calling our Brentwood office at (615) 797-8003, so you can speak with us and book your appointment right away at a time and date that is convenient for you. We also have an online booking service you can use to request an appointment at any time, even after hours. We have same-day and early-morning appointment spaces available to ensure the utmost convenience.

We understand that filling out new patient forms can be time-consuming and inconvenient, which is why we’ve made it easier for you at our dental office. By utilizing our online forms, we can send you the necessary paperwork via email, allowing you to complete them in the comfort of your own home and at your own pace. It’s as simple as clicking on the button below to get started. With this easy and efficient process, you can save time and avoid the hassle of filling out paperwork in the waiting room. Our goal is to make your dental visit as stress-free and comfortable as possible, starting from the very beginning.

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Your first visit is broken into 4 easy steps.

1. You will be warmly welcomed and shown around by our kind team. Immediately, you will feel relaxed as we treat you like family and answer any questions you have.
2. Once you have met the team, it is time for your new patient exam. During this stage of your visit, Dr. Patel will take some x-rays, get a 3D scan of your mouth, and use an intraoral camera to show you what your teeth look like. He will then discuss your medical history and review the health of your gums too.
3. Your Brentwood dentist next explains his findings and discusses any concerns that you have. During this discussion, you will be presented with a variety of treatment options and can ask any questions.
4. After you have decided on your treatment, our team will create a plan for you and discuss your financial options. We will take everything at your pace and make sure you understand each aspect of your treatment too.

Regular dental exams are crucial in identifying potential issues early on, preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments in the future. During your visit, one of our dental hygienists will begin by thoroughly cleaning any buildup from your teeth. Next, Dr. Patel will use specialized tools to check for any areas of concern on the surfaces and near the gumline. If it’s been a while since your last appointment, you may experience some soreness and sensitivity in certain areas.

It is generally recommended to get a dental exam every six months. It’s important to find a dentist who can make you feel comfortable and informed about what to expect during your visit. Although the idea of visiting the dentist may cause anxiety for some, the relief of having a care plan in place can be significant. As a parent, your positive attitude towards dental care can also help your children overcome any fears they may have about dental visits. Don’t hesitate to schedule your next exam onlineOpens in a new tab to NexHealth’s online booking portal and take the first step towards a healthy smile!

Medical and dental professionals have extensively researched the use of X-rays and established safety guidelines for their usage. Dr. Patel aims to use the least amount of X-rays possible, and will only recommend them when necessary to diagnose a specific issue. With advancements in technology, digital X-rays used today emit significantly less radiation and are much safer than traditional X-rays used in the past.

During your initial dental exam after a prolonged absence, X-rays may be necessary to assess the health of your teeth and gums. If you have gum disease, Dr. Patel may recommend X-rays every six months to monitor your progress. For regular check-ups, X-rays are typically taken every two years.

Children may require more X-rays than adults due to their changing teeth and higher susceptibility to cavities. However, Dr. Patel will always aim to minimize the number of X-rays taken to ensure the safety of your child’s health.

Rest assured that our team is committed to providing you and your family with safe and comprehensive dental care. We utilize state-of-the-art technology to ensure that our X-rays are as safe and efficient as possible. Contact us to schedule your next dental appointment and experience the latest in dental technology with peace of mind.

Daily flossing is an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Dental floss helps remove food particles and plaque from the areas between teeth and under the gumline. Neglecting this crucial step can lead to the hardening of plaque, forming tartar that can cause the formation of pockets and the widening of gaps between teeth and gums. This can eventually result in gum recession and tooth loss.

Waxed or unwaxed floss can effectively remove plaque and debris from between teeth. Additionally, using floss picks or interdental brushes can provide a convenient and easy alternative to traditional flossing. These tools can help reach tight spaces, making it easier to remove debris and maintain oral health.

Regular flossing is a simple yet effective way to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Our Brentwood dental team can provide guidance on the best oral hygiene practices to maintain a healthy smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how flossing can benefit your oral health.

Dental implants are a popular and effective tooth replacement option made of biocompatible materials like titanium and ceramic. The implant itself is typically made of titanium, which is strong, lightweight, and able to fuse with the jawbone over time through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable and durable foundation for a prosthetic tooth, such as a crown or bridge, to be attached to the implant. Some newer types of dental implants use ceramic materials, which can offer advantages like improved aesthetics and reduced risk of inflammation or allergy. Dr. Patel can help you determine which type of dental implant is right for your unique needs and oral health goals. To book a complimentary dental implant consultation click the button below.

The duration of a dental implant procedure can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s oral health, the number of implants being placed, and the complexity of the case.

Generally, the process involves several stages, including the initial consultation and evaluation, the surgical placement of the implant, a healing period of several months, and the placement of a prosthetic tooth or teeth on top of the implant.

On average, the entire process can take several months to a year or more to complete. However, some cases may be able to be completed in a shorter timeframe, such as same-day implant placement with immediate loading of the prosthetic tooth. Dr. Patel can provide a more accurate estimate of the expected timeline for your specific case during your consultation.

While dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth, they may not last forever. Factors such as oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and the patient’s overall health can all affect the lifespan of dental implants. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last 20 years or more. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary.