Most Commonly Asked Questions
Dr. Vanderbrook and the rest of our team are always happy to address concerns from patients. We want you to feel confident about trusting your smile in our hands! Below, we’ve gathered a few different questions that we hear on a regular basis and their answers as a resource for new visitors. If you’ve read everything below and still can’t find the information you’re looking for, please contact us directly here in the Dallas area.
When does my family need checkups and cleanings?
Every six months, you need a checkup and cleaning – even if you have no tooth pain or dental concerns. These appointments allow us to take a proactive approach to oral healthcare. We’ll look for signs of gum disease, tooth decay and damage, oral cancer, and other concerns. If no problems exist, great! However, if you’ve developed a small fracture or cavity, Dr. Vanderbrook can address the issue immediately when conservative treatment is possible. Left alone, these small problems only escalate, which may subject you to pain, increased expense, and more time in the dental chair. At a cleaning visit, our hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and decaying food particles from your teeth. You’ll enjoy teeth with a silky, smooth finish and fresher breath after professional dental cleanings. The hygienist will also let you know if you’re one of the 80% of American adults who suffer with gum disease.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes! We accept any insurance that allows you to go to the dentist of your choice. Forms of payment include Mastercard, Visa, checks, and cash. We also offer CareCredit for patient financing. Please call the office for more details.
What is a “cosmetic dentist?”
Dr. Vanderbrook believes that all dentistry should be “cosmetic.” The American Dental Association does not actually recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty. Any general dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist, so as a consumer, you need to beware. We recommend that you review a dentist’s training and case photos. You can also ask them for a personal interview before deciding on cosmetic treatment. You can read about Dr. Vanderbrook in his biography, visit our gallery on this website, and read about our restorative and cosmetic dental procedures on the services page.
Why do I need a root canal?
Root canal therapy is actually a conservative procedure to save a dead or dying tooth from extraction. A deep cavity, fracture, or injury can compromise the nerve inside a tooth’s canals. If infection sets in, the tooth begins to ache severely. A patient in this situation may have two options: root canal or extraction. During a root canal procedure, infection is removed and a natural substance, gutta percha, is injected into the tooth’s canal. Topped with a crown, the affected tooth may stay in place indefinitely. Simple root canal procedures will be performed at the office. Patients who require more complex treatment will be referred to trusted colleagues for root canal therapy.