FAQs

What types of payment do you accept?

Penhold Dental Care accepts insurance, cheques, cash and all major credit cards. Penhold Dental Care also provides payment plans on a case by case basis.

My teeth feel fine, do I still need to see the dentist?

Yes. Most cavities do not cause pain. Usually if your teeth are hurting, then the small problem has turned into a big problem.

I’m pregnant/breastfeeding, should/can I see the dentist?

Yes! On top of all the other demands and anticipation of being pregnant, keeping your mouth healthy can require more attention than before. Many dental problems flair up during pregnancy due to the changing hormones and stress involved. It is very important and safe to keep up with your cleanings, check-ups, and dental work while you are pregnant; and congratulations in advance on your new family member!

What is a Cavity?

When bacteria have broken through the enamel crust of the tooth, you have a cavity. If caught early, little damage is done to the tooth. If not restored, the bacteria can migrate deeper into the tooth, eventually to the nerve (pulp).

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

When the nerve (pulp) of a tooth has been damaged, whether by bacteria or trauma, the nerve of the tooth is removed. Don’t worry; they’re not as scary as they sound.

What is a Bridge?

A bridge is a false tooth (pontic) that is attached to one or more natural teeth. The bridge is cemented in place (not removable), is natural looking, and an excellent solution to missing teeth.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an alternative to conventional braces. Invisalign consists of a series of clear plastic retainers that are nearly invisible that gradually straighten your teeth. If you have any questions, please ask anyone at Penhold Dental Care for more information.

If I have braces, do I still need to see my dentist for checkups?

Absolutely! In fact, when you have braces, it can be even harder to keep your teeth clean due to the added hardware in your mouth. This makes it more likely to develop cavities if checkups and cleanings are neglected at this time.

How often should I get a checkup?

The most common checkup routine is once a year, however, if you have any dental concerns between checkups, let us know and we will gladly take a look.

What should I bring for my first visit?

Please bring your dental insurance information, as well as the names of any medications that you are taking.

Can I see the dentist if I don´t have insurance?

Absolutely, it is a common misconception that you can only see the dentist if you have insurance. We recommend that everyone sees the dentist. We also recommend choosing the treatment that is right for you, not just the treatment that your plan covers.

How can I cancel or reschedule an appointment?

If something comes up and you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please call the office at (403) 886-7665 a minimum of 48 hours before the appointment.

Do you accept insurance?

Penhold Dental Care accepts most major insurance policies.

What is a Sealant?

Penhold Dental Care is committed to preventing cavities before they start, and one way to do that is through sealants. Sealants are thin layers of white composite material placed in the deep grooves of the back teeth (molars). No freezing (needles) is needed, and the procedure takes minutes.

What is a Filling?

After the bacteria and decay have been removed from the tooth, the cavity is filled with a white or silver filling material.

What is a Crown?

A crown (also called a cap), is a thin amount of either porcelain or gold that completely surrounds the tooth. When a tooth is broken, has more filling than remaining tooth, or has had a root canal, we may suggest a crown. A crown helps prevent future breakage of the tooth, making the tooth last as long as possible.

What is a Dental Implant?

Made from titanium, dental implants are placed beneath the gum against the jaw bone. Over time the titanium implant fuses to the bone (osseointegration). Afterwards, a false tooth can be attached to the implant. When a patient has a complete or partial denture, dentures can be attached to implants to dramatically increase stability to the denture.

What is gum disease (Periodontal Disease)?

When bacteria, plaque, and calcium buildup (calculus) are left below the gums, they cause inflammation. This inflammation causes swelling of the gum tissue, as well as bone loss. Since the bone is what holds the teeth in place, it is very important to preserve that bone, by treating gum disease. The best way to do that is by getting regular dental cleanings by a hygienist.

How often is a dental cleaning needed?

That depends, and will be determined by you and your dentist at your first visit, ranging from a cleaning once a year to every 3 months. The most common schedule is to have your teeth cleaned every 6 months.

I have a dental phobia, can you handle me?

Absolutely! Sometimes it just takes a little extra patience, some laughing gas, and a sense of humor!

At what age should I bring my child for his/her first dental appointment?

If you have any concerns, please bring your child in as soon as possible. If you have no concerns, bring your child in as young as 1 or 2 years old for their first visit, even if all we are able to do is let your child play with the light and pick up a toy. It’s always a good idea to have an easy, pleasant first dental experience.

Do you provide payment plans?

Penhold Dental Care can provide a payment plan on a case by case basis.

At Penhold Dental Care, we are often asked many questions about dentistry and our services. Below are some of our more frequently asked questions.

If you have any questions or would like to request an appointment with Dr. Dave Litchfield, please do not hesitate to contact us at (403) 886-7665.