Frequently asked questions

It is dental work that improves how your smile looks, such as whitening, bonding and veneers. Cleveland Clinic describes it as focused on improving the appearance of your smile. Your dentist explains options and checks that your teeth and gums are healthy first.

Usually not. Cleveland Clinic says insurance generally does not cover cosmetic services. Plans differ, so ask the office to check your benefits. The practice gives each patient its own estimate rather than posting fees. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

No. The American Dental Association says treatment is not reversible because tooth enamel is removed to place a veneer. Bonding usually removes less enamel. Your dentist can explain the trade-offs for your teeth. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Maybe, but it needs a plan. The American Dental Association says veneers may not be a good choice if you clench or grind. Your dentist may suggest a night guard or a different option. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

Call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment online. The office is open Monday to Thursday. At the visit, your dentist reviews your goals, your teeth and your options. Bring your questions to your next visit. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect.

Bonding builds up tooth-colored resin on your tooth, usually in one visit with little or no enamel removed. Veneers are thin shells that cover the front of a tooth and remove some enamel. Your dentist can explain which suits your teeth.

Cleveland Clinic says that bonding usually needs no downtime. You may have short-term sensitivity afterward, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Your dentist will tell you what to expect and when to call. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Often yes. Cleveland Clinic says bonding can be reversed at any time because it typically does not require enamel removal. Ask your dentist what removal would involve for your tooth. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Avoid chewing ice or biting your nails. Keep your regular checkups so your dentist can check the bonding and polish or repair it. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

It depends on your plan and the reason for the work. Cosmetic work is often not covered, but repair of a damaged tooth may be treated differently. The office checks your benefits and gives you an estimate.

Bonding usually removes little enamel and is often done in one visit, but it stains and wears more. Porcelain veneers are strong and long-lasting but remove enamel and cannot be undone. Your dentist helps you weigh them.

Maybe, but it needs a plan. The American Dental Association says veneers may not be a good choice if you clench or grind. Your dentist may suggest a night guard or a different option. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Usually not. The American Dental Association says veneers are considered cosmetic, so they may not be covered unless deemed medically necessary. The office checks your plan and gives you an estimate. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth daily. Avoid biting nails and chewing hard objects, and wear a mouthguard for sports. Be careful with coffee, tea and red wine, which can stain.

Plans vary. Many plans do not cover work that is purely cosmetic, though parts of a plan, such as a crown on a damaged tooth, may be covered. Ask your insurer and ask the office. Town Center Dental gives each patient a personal estimate.

Often whitening comes first. The American Dental Association says whitening will not work on caps, veneers, crowns or fillings, so your dentist matches new work to the natural shade you choose. Your dentist plans the order for your teeth.

Yes. Many plans run in phases, starting with health needs and then color, shape and position. Ask your dentist for the order of the phases, the number of visits, and the time between them.

Yes. The American Dental Association says dentists must first treat any dental issues like decay or gum disease before veneers. Cosmetic work over unhealthy teeth may worsen existing problems. Your dentist checks your gums and teeth first.

Call the office at (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment. At the consultation, share your goals and bring photos. Your dentist examines your mouth, explains the options and gives you a written plan and an estimate.

The American Dental Association says overuse of whiteners can damage tooth enamel or gums, so follow directions and talk to your dentist before you start. Your dentist can tell you which product and schedule suit your teeth. Mention any sensitivity first.

The American Dental Association says that in most cases the sensitivity is temporary. If it bothers you, you can delay treatment and try again. Tell your dentist if sensitivity lasts or gets worse, since you may need a different strength or schedule.

Each has a place. Chairside bleaching at the dentist usually takes one visit with gum protection, and custom trays let you whiten at home with guidance. Store-bought kits use a lower strength. Your dentist helps you choose based on your teeth and gums.

No. The American Dental Association says whitening will not work on caps, veneers, crowns or fillings. If you have visible dental work, ask your dentist how it will look next to whitened teeth and whether the shade can be matched.

All toothpastes help remove surface stain with mild abrasives. The American Dental Association suggests whitening toothpastes with the ADA Seal of Acceptance for stain removal. They remove surface stain and do not bleach teeth.

Stains can build up again from the same causes. The American Dental Association lists coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco as major staining culprits. Brush and floss daily, keep up with cleanings, and ask your dentist about touch-ups.

Talk with your dentist before the visit. The office describes nitrous oxide on its sedation page. Which option fits depends on your health and the care planned, and only your dentist can decide. Do not take anything on your own before an appointment without asking.

Say so when you book and again when you arrive. The American Dental Association suggests this. Share past bad experiences and ask what to expect. Your team can slow the pace and check in often. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Yes. Agree on a signal, like raising your hand, before care begins. The American Dental Association suggests this so you can take a break during an exam. Your team will pause when you signal. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

No. The American Dental Association says it is not intended to put you to sleep. You can still hear and respond to your dentist. Ask your dentist whether it is a good fit for you. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

Start with a short visit and tell the team why you stayed away. Delay can raise your chance of dental problems, per the American Dental Association. A calm first exam helps you set a plan at your own pace.

It is a thin, protective coating that sticks to the chewing surface of back teeth. It helps keep food and bacteria out of the grooves. The American Dental Association says sealants can keep cavities from forming. Your dentist decides which teeth need one.

The American Dental Association says sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars. They do not replace brushing and flossing. Your dentist checks them at regular visits. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

The process is quick. Your dentist cleans and dries the tooth, applies a gel, rinses, and places the sealant. The American Dental Association says there are no known side effects except a possible allergy. Ask your dentist what to expect.

The American Dental Association says they often last for several years before they need to be reapplied. Your dentist checks them at regular visits and can reapply as needed. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Some plans cover them. The American Dental Association suggests calling your dental benefit company. The office can also check your plan and gives you an estimate for your own case. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions. Bring your questions to your next visit.

After the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday, says the American Dental Association. Think of it as a well-baby checkup for teeth. The dentist checks for cavities and shows you how to clean your baby's teeth.

Either can work. The American Dental Association says families may choose a family dentist who cares for patients of all ages. Dr. Jon Copeland and Dr. Stephanie Copeland are general dentists who see the whole family. Ask any office how they handle children.

Fluoride helps prevent cavities. The American Dental Association says it is important for children to use fluoride toothpaste and drink plenty of tap water, which usually contains fluoride. Use the right amount for your child's age. Your dentist can advise you.

It varies by child. Baby teeth help set the spacing for adult teeth, a process the American Dental Association says starts around age 6. Ask your dentist at checkups if a tooth is late or very loose.

It depends on the child. Some need a visit once or twice a year, and others need more, per the American Dental Association. Your dentist looks at your child's risk of cavities and sets a schedule.

A guard made by your dentist usually fits and feels better. The American Dental Association says to wear a stock or boil-and-bite guard if a custom guard is out of reach. Children's guards may need replacing more often, so ask for a fit check at each visit.

Rules differ by sport, state and league, so check with your school or coach. The American Dental Association notes that many sports will not let you play without one. Our blog post on the NFHS rule gives details for football.

Replace it right away if it shows wear, is damaged or fits poorly. Teens and children may need a new one more often because their mouths are growing. Ask your dentist at checkups when to replace it.

Yes, and fit matters more. The American Dental Association says a properly fitted guard can protect brackets and cushion your cheeks and lips. Your dentist may suggest a lower guard if you have braces there. Talk to your dentist about the right type.

No. The American Dental Association says not to wear a retainer or other removable appliance during contact sports. Take it out before you play, put it in its case, and wear your sports guard instead.

Keep it in a sturdy case with vents so it can dry, away from sun, hot water and pets. Rinse it before and after use. Bring it to checkups so your dentist can check the fit and wear.

Cleveland Clinic says a dental emergency is any dental problem that requires immediate attention. Examples include a knocked-out tooth, bleeding that will not stop, and swelling or infection. Call during open hours. For trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911.

No. The office is open Monday to Wednesday 8am to 5pm and Thursday 8am to 4pm, and closed Friday to Sunday. If you have an emergency when it is closed, go to the nearest emergency room. For trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911.

Call your own dentist first. The American Dental Association says most dentists reserve time for emergency patients, and to give as much detail as you can. If your dentist is closed and you need care now, go to an emergency room.

Town Center Dental is closed on Sunday. If you have severe pain, swelling, bleeding or an injury, go to the nearest emergency room. Cleveland Clinic says to go there if tooth pain starts when your dentist's office is closed.

Keep the tooth moist at all times. The American Dental Association says to try putting it back in the socket without touching the root, or keep it in milk or between your cheek and gums. Get dental or emergency care right away.

It is a pocket of infection near a tooth root. Cleveland Clinic says it is serious and you should see your dentist as soon as possible. NIDCR says it can cause pain, facial swelling and fever. For trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911.

Some people need a visit once or twice a year, and others need more, per the American Dental Association. Your dentist sets a schedule from your gum health, medicines and past treatment. Ask what fits you.

No. The American Dental Association says dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. It is often a side effect of medicines. Tell your dentist and your doctor so you can find a plan together.

Yes. Dentures need checks for fit, and your mouth still needs exams for gum health and oral cancer. The American Dental Association asks denture wearers to schedule regular checkups too. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Medicare does not cover routine dental care, per the American Dental Association. Some Medicare Advantage or separate plans do. Check your plan, and ask the office to review your benefits before treatment. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Bring your insurance card, a list of medicines, any dentures or partials, and your health history. A caregiver can come with you if you like. This helps your dentist plan your visit. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

The American Dental Association says dental X-rays emit very low doses of radiation, so the risk of harm is very small. Children may need X-rays more often than adults. Your dentist decides if your child needs them and explains why.

It depends on you. The American Dental Association says your dentist reviews your history and examines your mouth to decide. It recommends X-rays in moderation. Ask your dentist what you need and why. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Many people go every six months. Some need visits once or twice a year, and others need more, per the American Dental Association. Your dentist sets the schedule for you after your exam. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Come anyway. Tell the team how long it has been and share any worries. Your dentist will examine your mouth, explain what was found and set a plan at a pace that works for you. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

Yes. The American Dental Association says a new dentist may ask for copies instead of ordering new ones. Ask your previous dentist to send them before your visit. Bring your questions to your next visit. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect.

Dental visits are encouraged. The American Dental Association says to see your dentist while expecting and take care of cleanings and needed fillings before the baby arrives. Tell your dentist you are pregnant. Your dentist plans care around your health.

It differs for each person. The American Dental Association says some people need a visit once or twice a year, and others need more. Cleveland Clinic says most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months. Your dentist sets your schedule.

After the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday, says the American Dental Association. Learn more on the dentistry for kids page. Your dentist can also talk with you about cleaning and habits.

Yes. The American Dental Association says you can have dental problems with no symptoms that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular visits help catch problems early, when treatment is often simpler. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

A family dentist cares for all ages, from checkups and cleanings to fillings, crowns and tooth replacement. See the Town Center Dental services list. Dr. Jon Copeland and Dr. Stephanie Copeland are general dentists. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

The American Dental Association says an athlete who cannot afford a custom guard should still wear a stock or boil-and-bite guard from the drugstore. Fit matters, so follow the directions on the package. A custom guard from your dentist usually fits and feels better.

No. The American Dental Association explains that night guards are not the same as sports guards. A sports guard has extra cushioning that probably will not feel comfortable for sleep. Ask your dentist which type you need for each purpose.

It depends on how you use it, what it is made of, and how you care for it. Replace any guard that shows wear, damage or poor fit. Ask your dentist to check it at your regular visits and tell you when to replace it.

Often yes, and a properly fitted guard can matter more with braces. The American Dental Association says it helps protect the brackets and your cheeks and lips. Ask your dentist about the right type for your braces.

A bulky guard can. The American Dental Association notes stock guards often fit poorly and can make breathing and talking harder. Cleveland Clinic says custom-made guards tend to be more comfortable. Your dentist can adjust a guard that feels wrong.

If your child plays contact sports or grinds teeth, ask your dentist. Children's mouths are growing, so a guard may need replacing more often. Your dentist checks the fit at each visit and advises what suits your child.

Ask your dentist. The American Dental Association says your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. A guard made from a mold of your teeth gives the closest fit, and store-bought guards may not protect as well.

The American Dental Association says the dental exam checks the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving. Treatment depends on the diagnosis. It can start with simple steps, then exercises, medicine or a night guard to decrease clenching.

No. The American Dental Association says jaw pain can also come from problems with the temporomandibular joint, among other causes. Your dentist does a careful exam, sometimes with x-rays, to find the cause before suggesting care.

Children often grind their teeth, and many outgrow it by their teens. The American Dental Association says their teeth and jaws are growing fast, so it does not always cause serious damage. If you are concerned, ask your family dentist what to do.

Rinse it before and after use, or brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Clean it in cool, soapy water and rinse well. Never leave it in the sun or hot water. Store it in a vented case.

Ask your dentist. Cleveland Clinic says a guard for grinding can be worn any time, night or day, although most people grind or clench during sleep. Your dentist decides which type and wear schedule fit you.

Yes. The American Dental Association says dentists are often the first health professionals to notice the signs of oral cancer. The exam is part of a regular checkup. Your dentist or hygienist looks at your face, neck, lips, mouth and throat.

Your dentist looks at and feels the tissues of your mouth, face and neck during a regular checkup. A screening does not cut tissue. Tell your dentist if anything feels tender, and ask about any step before it starts.

Ask your dentist. Many dentists include a screening at each checkup. How often you need one can depend on your age, tobacco and alcohol use, and your history. Your dentist gives a plan for your situation.

NIDCR says the dentist may recommend additional tests or refer you. An unusual spot is often not cancer, and many causes are harmless. A tissue sample (biopsy) is a separate step if your dentist or another provider needs one.

NIDCR says most throat cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus, and the HPV 16 type has been linked to oral cancers. Your dentist can talk with you about risk and about screening at your visits.

Yes, a screening is for people without symptoms too. The American Dental Association notes that your dental team checks for oral cancer each time you visit, and that you should still know the symptoms to report.

The American Dental Association describes scaling and root planing as a deep cleaning below the gumline. Afterward you may have pain for a day or two and sensitivity for up to a week. Your gums may be swollen, tender or bleed. Your dentist books a follow-up visit.

Gingivitis is the early stage, with red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Periodontitis is advanced and can lead to loss of the tissue and bone that support the teeth. Care differs by stage, and your dentist decides which fits your gums.

The American Dental Association says there are many reasons gums bleed. It can be a sign of gingivitis. A new flossing routine, pregnancy or certain medicines can also play a part. If your gums bleed regularly, make an appointment so a dentist can find the cause.

The American Dental Association says a link is not conclusive, but some studies suggest severe gum disease may be associated with diabetes or stroke. Tell your dentist about your health history, and ask your doctor how your gums fit into your care.

Yes, in advanced cases. The American Dental Association says periodontitis can lead to loss of the tissue and bone that support the teeth, and teeth may feel loose and start to move. See your dentist if a tooth feels loose.

Yes. The NIDCR says tobacco use can delay healing and make treatment for gum disease less successful. Tell your dentist if you use any tobacco product, including vapes, and ask about ways to cut back.

As of October 2026, Medicare.gov says that in most cases Medicare does not cover routine dental services like cleanings, fillings and extractions. There are limited exceptions tied to covered medical care. Check any other plan you have, and ask the office about your estimate.

In most cases no. Medicare.gov lists dentures and implants among items it does not cover as of October 2026. Some other plans cover part of the cost. Ask your plan about limits, and ask the office for a personal estimate before you decide.

The American Dental Association says that as we get older we enter a second round of cavity-prone years, and dry mouth is one common cause. Tell your dentist about changes in medicines or health, and ask about fluoride and cleaning aids.

Age alone is not the deciding factor. The American Dental Association says your health matters more than your age. Chronic illness and tobacco can slow healing. Your dentist reviews your health and your mouth, and may talk with your doctor.

Only some people do. The American Dental Association says antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for a small number of people with specific heart conditions. Tell your dentist about your heart and joints, and ask your doctor if you are unsure.

Yes, as part of your exam. The American Dental Association says your dentist checks for signs of oral cancer during dental visits, and that regular visits matter. See the oral cancer screening page for what the exam covers.

Cleveland Clinic says most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months, and some people need them more often. Your dentist sets the schedule based on your gum health, cavity risk and history. Ask at your next visit.

Cleveland Clinic says you might have sensitive teeth or sore gums afterward, and that this usually goes away in a few days. Tell your hygienist if you are nervous or if anything feels uncomfortable during the visit, and agree on a hand signal.

Not always. The American Dental Association says you may not need an X-ray at every visit. Your dentist reviews your history, examines your mouth, and decides whether an x-ray will give useful information.

A routine cleaning is for healthy teeth and gums. A deep cleaning, called scaling and root planing, treats gum disease below the gumline, and your dentist numbs the gums first. Your dentist measures your gums to decide which you need.

No. NIDCR says only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar. Daily brushing and flossing remove plaque before it hardens, and cleanings remove what you cannot. You need both.

Gums that are inflamed can bleed when cleaned, especially after some time between visits. The American Dental Association says bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis. If bleeding continues, tell your dentist so the cause can be checked.

There is no single number. Crown life depends on the material, how much natural tooth is left, how hard you bite, whether you grind your teeth, and how well you clean around it. Your dentist checks the crown at each exam and can tell you what to watch.

The tooth may feel sore or sensitive for a short time. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect. Call the office if your bite feels uneven or discomfort does not settle after a few days.

A tooth that needed a crown may already have been worn, cracked or decayed. Preparing it can leave it sensitive for a while. Tell your dentist if sensitivity lasts or gets worse so the bite and the tooth can be checked.

When a tooth is weak, cracked or has a large filling, a crown can protect it. The American Dental Association says a crown can strengthen a tooth with a large filling. You can always ask to see the X-ray and ask about other options.

It is a short-term cover placed while a lab makes your final crown. Treat it gently and avoid sticky or hard foods on that side. Call the office during open hours if it comes off or breaks, because the tooth underneath is exposed.

A hole in the tooth does not close on its own, so it needs a filling. NIDCR says a white spot is a sign of early decay. Your dentist may advise fluoride and habit changes to slow early changes, and will watch the spot.

Yes. NIDCR says early tooth decay does not usually have symptoms, so exams and X-rays matter. Untreated decay can cause pain, infection and even tooth loss, NIDCR says. Tell your dentist about any spots or sensitivity you notice.

It varies from person to person, so ask your dentist what to expect. Cleveland Clinic says waiting until numbness wears off helps you avoid biting your cheek. Your dentist can explain more at your visit. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

A filling repairs part of a tooth. A crown covers the whole visible tooth. The American Dental Association says a crown can strengthen a tooth with a large filling when not enough tooth remains. Your dentist can help you choose.

Call the office during open hours. Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side until you are seen. The office is closed Friday to Sunday. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions. Bring your questions to your next visit.

People use the terms for the same idea. A case report in the National Library of Medicine's PMC archive describes full-mouth rehabilitation, also called reconstruction or restoration, as comprehensive restoring of function, appearance and health of all teeth in both jaws. Your dentist may use either name for your plan.

Photos show one person's mouth, and results differ from person to person. At your consultation, your dentist explains what may be possible for your teeth, the steps involved, and the limits. The office can answer questions about what to expect.

Plans differ. Many cover parts of the work, such as crowns or gum treatment, and exclude others. Ask your insurer about limits and waiting periods. A written treatment plan lets your insurer review each step, and the office gives each patient a personal estimate.

Gum disease can loosen teeth and wear away the bone that supports them. New work needs a stable base. Your dentist checks your gums first and may treat disease before any rebuilding starts.

Maybe. Grinding and clenching can chip or wear dental work. If you grind, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Ask at your consultation whether grinding is part of your picture.

Not always. Your dentist can plan care in phases and start with the most urgent need. You can talk through the order of the phases, the time between them, and your budget before anything begins.

You may feel soreness in the gums or sensitivity to heat and cold for a few weeks. Cleveland Clinic says most people can resume routine activities right after crown placement. If pain is sharp, lasts, or the crown feels high, call the office.

A crown can strengthen a tooth with a large filling, protect a weak tooth from breaking, restore one that is broken, or cover an implant. The American Dental Association says this is why a dentist recommends one. Ask your dentist to show you the problem.

Cleveland Clinic says some sensitivity, especially to heat and cold, can happen for a couple of weeks. If it is severe or does not ease, call your dentist. The tooth may need a bite adjustment or another look.

Often, yes. Many crowns are placed on teeth that had no root canal. A root canal is only needed when the nerve of the tooth is infected or damaged. Your dentist uses x-rays and an exam to decide.

Keep the crown, call the office, and avoid chewing on that side. Do not use household glue. Your dentist can check the tooth and the crown and tell you whether it can be cemented back or needs to be remade.

It is care that repairs or replaces damaged, decayed or missing teeth. It includes fillings, crowns, root canal treatment, extractions, bridges, implants and dentures. Your dentist chooses options based on how much of the tooth is healthy and what you need.

It depends on the tooth. Small to mid-size cavities often get fillings. A crown can strengthen a tooth with a large filling or a weak tooth. Your dentist examines the tooth and may use x-rays before recommending one.

Dentists prefer to keep a natural tooth when it can be repaired. A root canal treats the inside of the tooth so it can stay. If the tooth is too damaged, removal may be the better choice. Your dentist explains both choices and what follows.

Often yes. Your dentist can put urgent problems first and plan the rest in order. A written plan shows each phase. Ask how long you can wait between phases without risking the teeth involved.

Many plans cover part of fillings, crowns and root canals, with limits that differ by plan. Check your plan's deductible, yearly maximum and waiting periods. Town Center Dental gives each patient a personal estimate before treatment.

Tell your dentist and the team. The American Dental Association suggests sharing your worries and agreeing on a hand signal for breaks. Nitrous oxide is one comfort option described on our sedation page. Ask what applies to your visit.

Your dentist decides. The American Dental Association says the temporary filling is replaced with a regular filling or a crown to protect the tooth from further damage. A crown covers the whole tooth. Ask which one fits your tooth.

The American Dental Association says your dentist uses local anesthesia so you do not feel the procedure. Afterward, your dentist explains what to expect and how to manage any soreness. Call the office if pain is getting worse or swelling develops.

Maybe. Cleveland Clinic says pain can stop when an infection kills the pulp, while bacteria keep spreading. Seek care even if the pain is gone. An exam and x-rays show whether the tooth needs treatment.

Both are options. Dentists usually try to save natural teeth, and extraction is advised when other treatments are not enough. Your dentist weighs the damage, the bone and your goals, and explains replacement choices if the tooth comes out.

The American Dental Association says a root canal usually takes one or two office visits. Some teeth need more. Your dentist tells you what to expect for your tooth, plus the follow-up visit for the filling or crown.

Cleveland Clinic advises scheduling a dentist visit right away if you develop mouth pain, a toothache or a red, swollen bump on your gums. It also says an abscess will not go away on its own. Do not wait for the pain to stop.

Protect the clot in the first days: no smoking, no hard rinsing, no straw for the first 24 hours. Cleveland Clinic says a large molar can take up to four months for the jaw to fully heal. Your dentist gives dates and steps for your case.

Dry socket is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot over the socket is displaced, leaving bone and nerves exposed. Cleveland Clinic says it usually develops in the first three days. If you think you have it, call your dentist.

The American Dental Association says not to smoke while the socket heals. Cleveland Clinic says smokers are over three times more likely to develop dry socket. Ask your dentist how long to stay away from tobacco and vaping, and keep avoiding it as long as you can.

Cleveland Clinic says to call your dentist for a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, pus around the site, or severe pain that does not improve with medication. Go to an emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing.

Sometimes. Cleveland Clinic says a dentist might place a bone graft in the empty socket to help prevent bone loss in the jaw. Your dentist decides based on the tooth, the bone and whether you plan to replace the tooth.

Common choices include a bridge, an implant or a denture. Your dentist can discuss them before or after the extraction. Each has different steps, timing and upkeep, and your dentist helps you compare them for your mouth.

The American Dental Association says you may feel light-headed or notice tingling in your arms and legs, and some people feel their arms and legs get heavy. The effects wear off soon after the mask is removed. Tell your dentist how you feel during the visit.

Often yes. Nitrous oxide helps you relax, but local anesthesia is what numbs the area being treated by blocking nerves that sense pain. Your dentist decides what mix fits your visit, and you can ask about it first.

Talk with your dentist. The American Dental Association says to ask whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you. Share your health history, the medicines you take, and your level of anxiety so the team can plan your care.

Tell your dentist about your anxiety, ask questions, agree on a hand signal, and use distraction such as headphones or slow breathing. The American Dental Association lists these steps. They help many people feel more in control during a visit.

The sedation text on this page is the practice's own wording. Ask the office which options apply to you, what each involves, and what to do before and after your visit. The team can answer questions by phone at (636) 273-5866.

First comes a short recovery from the visit, about a week according to Cleveland Clinic. Next, the graft needs at least three months of healing time to join your own bone. Then the implant goes in, and the bone grows around it before the new tooth is attached. Your dentist sets the exact schedule.

Tobacco can slow healing after implant surgery, according to the American Dental Association. Tell your dentist if you use tobacco in any form. Your dentist can explain how it may affect your plan and what you can do about it.

It depends on your plan. Coverage differs from plan to plan, and the office does not publish fees. Bring your insurance details to your consultation. The team can help you check your benefits and gives you an estimate for your own plan.

You and your dentist decide together. Your dentist looks at where the bone loss is, how much there is, and your health, then explains the choices. Ask why one option fits you better than another. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Only if you have enough bone. Your dentist checks this with X-rays or a 3D scan before recommending anything. If a graft is advised, ask what could happen if you skip it and what other options you have.

It depends on your teeth, gums and bone. A bridge uses neighboring teeth for support. An implant stands on its own but needs enough bone. Your dentist can compare both for your gap and explain upkeep, healing time and next steps.

There is no single number. How long a bridge lasts depends on the materials, the health of the supporting teeth, your gums and your habits. The American Dental Association says success depends on the foundation. Your dentist checks it at each exam.

Not a fixed bridge. The American Dental Association says only a dentist can remove a fixed bridge. You clean under it daily with floss aids. Your dentist or hygienist can show you how. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

With a traditional bridge, yes. The dentist reshapes the teeth beside the gap so crowns can fit over them. An implant-supported bridge uses implants instead. Ask which design your dentist suggests and why. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Call (636) 273-5866 or request an appointment. Your dentist examines the gap and the teeth beside it, explains your options and answers your questions before any treatment. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions. Bring your questions to your next visit.

It varies. The American Dental Association describes three phases: placement, bone healing around the implant, and attaching the new tooth. Healing can take up to several months before teeth go on. Your dentist sets the schedule for you.

Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect and how to manage soreness. The American Dental Association says your dentist may suggest soft foods, cold foods and warm soup during healing. Call the office if pain or swelling gets worse instead of better.

No one can promise a number. The American Dental Association calls implants an excellent long-term option, but results depend on your health, your bone, tobacco use and cleaning habits. Regular checkups help. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Ask who does each step, what the plan includes, how problems are handled and what the estimate covers. Dr. Jon Copeland and Dr. Stephanie Copeland are general dentists. You can check any dentist's license with the Missouri board.

Often yes. The American Dental Association says your health is more of a factor than your age. Your dentist reviews your history, medicines and scans before advising. Ask your dentist what applies to you. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

Brush them daily with a soft brush and a non-abrasive cleanser, and rinse first. The American Dental Association says this removes food and plaque. Keep them in water when not worn. Brush your gums and tongue too.

New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks, says the American Dental Association. They may feel loose while your muscles adapt, and minor soreness is not unusual. Call your dentist if it does not settle.

Yes. The American Dental Association says to schedule regular checkups, so your dentist can check that dentures fit and your mouth is healthy. Call sooner if they stop fitting well or become damaged. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Some people do. The American Dental Association says to read the instructions and use it exactly as directed. Look for products with the ADA Seal. Ask your dentist if you need it or if the fit needs work.

Often yes. Call the office during open hours and tell the team what happened. The American Dental Association says to contact your dentist if dentures stop fitting well or become damaged. See the denture repair page.

Ask your dentist first. The American Dental Association tells denture wearers to contact their dentist when a denture stops fitting well or becomes damaged. A home fix may change the fit and irritate your gums. Your dentist can tell you whether the denture can be repaired.

Common signs are a loose fit, sore spots, or food slipping under the denture. Your gums and jaw change shape over time. A dentist checks the fit and tells you whether a reline, a rebase or a new denture is the better choice.

Keep every piece and bring them all to your visit. Place them in a clean container. Do not try to glue them. Your dentist uses the pieces to judge the break and plan the repair.

It is better not to. A cracked denture can rub, cut or irritate your gums. If it is sore or you cannot eat, tell the office when you call so the team can plan your visit. Your dentist gives advice for your situation.

It depends on your plan. Some plans cover repairs or relines, some limit how often, and some do not. Call your insurer or ask the office. Town Center Dental gives each patient a personal estimate, and the insurance page lists what to bring.

Keep your regular checkups. The American Dental Association says the dentist examines your mouth to see whether your dentures continue to fit properly. Your dentist can set a schedule based on your mouth and denture.

Implants are fixed in the jawbone and need healing time and enough bone. Dentures are removable, can replace many teeth, and need daily cleaning and fit checks. Your dentist weighs your health, bone, goals and budget, and explains both choices.

Neither is better for everyone. A bridge uses the teeth beside the gap. An implant is a post in the jawbone and avoids shaping nearby teeth. The right choice depends on those teeth, your bone and your health. Your dentist can compare them for your mouth.

It depends on the option. An implant takes months because the bone must heal around it, and a graft adds time. Bridges and dentures usually take a few visits. Your dentist gives a timeline after an exam and scans.

The American Dental Association says a large space between teeth may affect how you speak or eat. Nearby teeth can also shift. Your dentist can talk through what a gap may mean for your bite and your options.

Age alone does not decide it. The American Dental Association says your health is more of a factor than your age. Chronic illness and tobacco use can slow healing. Your dentist reviews your health and your mouth.

It depends on the plan and the option. Coverage differs by plan and by option. Check your plan's limits, deductible and waiting periods, and ask the office for a personal estimate before treatment.

Often yes. The American Dental Association says many adults seek straightening to correct long-standing problems. What matters is the health of your teeth, gums and bone, not your age. Your dentist checks these first and tells you whether aligners fit your goals.

Yes. Cleveland Clinic says you need a retainer to keep teeth straight after braces come off, and the same reasoning applies after aligners. Your dentist will explain which type to wear and how often. Your dentist can explain more at your visit.

Braces use brackets joined by a wire that is tightened over time. Aligners are removable clear trays. Both move teeth with steady pressure. Your dentist can explain which suits your bite and daily life. Ask your dentist what applies to you.

Teeth move only while the tray is in. Treatment may take longer or trays may stop fitting. Tell your dentist if wearing them is hard so the plan can change before problems add up. Call (636) 273-5866 with questions.

It depends on your teeth. Cleveland Clinic says traditional braces may fix some dental issues more quickly than clear aligners, and that none of these treatments is a quick fix. Your dentist can tell you which fits your case and give a time estimate after an exam.

Length depends on how far your teeth need to move. Cleveland Clinic says more serious issues need several more months than a few slightly crooked teeth do. After a scan, your dentist maps your plan and gives you an estimate for your own teeth.

You may feel pressure or soreness, especially when you start a new tray. Cleveland Clinic says it typically eases within a few days. If pain lasts or a tray rubs your gums, call the office so your dentist can check the fit.

Often, yes. The American Dental Association notes that healthy teeth can be treated with braces or aligners at any age. Your teeth and gums need to be healthy first, so your dentist checks for decay and gum disease. Your dentist decides whether aligners suit your bite.

Yes, your dentist will likely recommend one. Cleveland Clinic explains that teeth can move on their own after treatment, and a retainer helps keep them in the correct place. Your dentist sets how long to wear it.

Call the office. Do not skip ahead to the next tray or wear a damaged one without advice. Your dentist can tell you whether to go back a step, wait, or have a new tray made.

Invisalign is one brand of clear aligners. Cleveland Clinic describes clear aligners as clear, custom-made plastic devices that fix crowded or crooked teeth. See the practice's Invisalign and clear aligners pages for its own descriptions, and ask the office what applies to you.

Not always. Cleveland Clinic says traditional braces may fix some dental issues more quickly than clear aligners, and that none of these treatments is a quick fix. Your dentist estimates your timeline after an exam and scan.

Yes, in many cases. The American Dental Association says healthy teeth can be treated at any age. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums first and decides whether aligners suit your bite. Our blog post covers adults over 50.

No. Cleveland Clinic explains that you take the aligners out to eat and drink, and when you brush and floss. Keep them in a clean case while they are out so they do not get lost or damaged.

Yes, your dentist will likely recommend one. Cleveland Clinic says teeth can move back on their own, and a retainer helps keep them in place. Your dentist tells you how long to wear it.

Your dentist tells you after the exam. Cleveland Clinic says aligners are not an option for everyone. You may be offered braces, gum treatment first, or referral to another dental provider for a complex bite.