Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Columbia, MO

Do you see children?

Every member of the family is welcome here at Columbia Healthy Smiles! Dr. Batson and Dr. Abe offer several pediatric services that are designed to preserve and strengthen your child’s growing teeth, and we do our best to make our dental office a friendly and comfortable place so that they can feel at ease. By locating developmental concerns at the earliest possible stage, we can help their treatment be simpler as well.

How often should I attend an appointment at your dental office?

If your oral health is at a good level, we recommend attending two appointments a year, or one every six months. These important visits allow our dentists to inspect your mouth for any signs of decay or damage that you may have missed during your regular oral hygiene routine. An in-depth cleaning with one of our dedicated team members will also remove plaque from your teeth and gums and leave your mouth feeling refreshed. If you suffer from periodontal disease or other oral health concerns, we may recommend more frequent appointments so that you can better maintain your smile.

I’ve lost some of my teeth. What are my options for replacing them?

Our team offers multiple reconstructive options so that you can be sure to pick the one that best fits your needs. Dental implants are typically the ideal solution because of their revitalizing health benefits, and Dr. Batson and Dr. Abe can recommend you to an excellent specialist who will assist him with placement. If you’re not the right candidate for implants, a traditional bridge or denture can give you back the structure and confidence you and your smile need.

When it comes down to it, no one treatment works for everyone. Our dentists and the rest of our team can discuss the available choices with you and the pros and cons of each in detail, ensuring that you have all the information you need to make the right decision.

Is tooth extraction my only option if I have a badly damaged tooth?

Not necessarily. In many cases, root canal therapy can restore the health and structure of your tooth in a long-lasting fashion. However, if our dentists do determine that extraction is necessary, they and their team will be sure to handle the procedure as smoothly and comfortably as possible. We’ll take the steps toward creating a new tooth for your smile right away here in Columbia, MO.

Can you improve the way my smile looks?

Yes! You can find several cosmetic dentistry services here at Columbia Healthy Smiles, all designed to improve the aesthetic quality of your facial look and erase frustrating dental flaws. Teeth whitening, veneers, Invisalign, all-ceramic restorations, and more are available, depending on your needs and your personal preferences. You can learn more on our cosmetic dentistry page.

Does my new dental crown, bridge, or dental restoration have to be gold or silver?

Not at all. Dr. Batson and Dr. Abe understand how important it is for many patients to have a restoration that improves both their oral health and their natural appearance. That’s why our team is happy to offer high-strength ceramic materials that look beautiful and feel strong in the mouth. We want you to smile with confidence!

How do I know if I have periodontal disease?

Regular visits at Columbia Healthy Smiles will help our team diagnose periodontal disease as soon as possible, but there are some tell-tale signs you can look for while brushing and flossing. These include strangely swollen gums, oral bleeding, loose teeth, and severe bad breath. Visit our periodontal disease treatment page to learn more.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

If you’re constantly suffering from exhaustion during the day, headaches, or ringing ears, it’s a strong possibility that you may be suffering from sleep apnea. However, a general doctor or sleep specialist can give you a more concrete diagnosis. Once you’re aware of your condition, Dr. Batson, Dr. Abe and the rest of our team can provide you with a personalized snoreguard that’ll help you sleep soundly through the night.

Can you help me if I have a dental emergency?

Yes! Please contact our Columbia, MO dental office right away if you or a loved one is experiencing severe dental pain or damage. In most cases, we can see you the same day as your initial call. Check our emergency dentistry page to learn more!

If you’re bleeding heavily or fear you might have a broken jaw, please go straight to your nearest emergency room instead. Our team can provide personalized care later on if you need restorative work.

Will you take my dental insurance?

Our team is an in-network provider for Delta Premier, and we’re happy to file paperwork for virtually any plan so that you can get the most out of your available benefits. We also accept low or no-interest financing plans through CareCredit. Cash, checks, and major credit cards are welcomed as well. Take a look at our new patient information page to learn more.