Frequently Asked Questions

CEREC uses advanced 3-D imaging and milling technology to design and create permanent ceramic crowns in a single appointment. This eliminates the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits. At Beattie Family Dental, patients leave with their final restoration the same day.

Porcelain veneers are custom-made ceramic shells that cover the front of teeth and typically last longer, while composite bonding uses tooth-colored resin applied directly and completed in one visit. Both improve smile appearance, but veneers offer greater durability and stain resistance for comprehensive cosmetic changes.

Digital X-ray technology provides approximately 90% less radiation exposure compared to traditional film X-rays while delivering faster, clearer images. At Beattie Family Dental in Davenport, IA, we use advanced digital imaging combined with intraoral cameras for safer, more accurate diagnostics.

Clear aligner treatment uses customized removable trays and advanced 3-D technology to straighten teeth discreetly and effectively for many orthodontic cases. The aligners are removable, making eating and oral hygiene easier. Results depend on case complexity and patient compliance with wearing the aligners as directed.

Seek immediate dental attention for severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, broken or fractured teeth from trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or facial swelling. At Beattie Family Dental, we provide urgent treatments for dental emergencies requiring prompt professional care to prevent complications.

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities by sealing out food and bacteria. They're especially beneficial for children and teenagers but can also protect adult teeth prone to decay in hard-to-clean grooves.

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care because they use artificial tooth roots that fuse with jawbone to create permanent foundations. The crown attached to the implant may need replacement after 10 to 15 years, but the implant itself remains stable when maintained through good oral hygiene.

A comprehensive exam includes evaluation of teeth, gums, bite alignment, and oral tissues, along with digital X-rays and oral cancer screening. At Beattie Family Dental, we emphasize preventive care and total oral health, identifying potential issues early before they require extensive treatment.

Yes, fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel and help reverse early signs of decay in adults, especially those with dry mouth, gum recession, or frequent cavities. Professional fluoride applications deliver higher concentrations than toothpaste, providing added protection between regular dental visits.

Not wearing aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day is the most common mistake that delays treatment progress. Clear aligners only work when consistently worn, removed only for eating and brushing. Skipping wear time extends treatment duration and compromises results.

Implant timing depends on healing and bone quality, but many patients can receive implants three to six months after extraction once the socket has healed. In some cases, immediate placement is possible during the same visit. Your dentist evaluates bone density and health to determine the best timeline.

Root canals become necessary when decay or infection reaches the tooth's inner pulp where nerves and blood vessels are located. A filling only repairs the outer tooth structure, while root canal treatment removes infected pulp, disinfects the canal, and seals it to save the tooth from extraction.