Dental FAQs

Dental FAQs in Amherst, NY

Are you accepting new patients?

Yes, Creekside Dentistry gladly welcomes new patients from Amherst, NY, and the surrounding areas.

Do you see children?

Yes, Creekside Dentistry is a family dentist in Amherst, NY. We generally begin seeing children after the primary teeth have begun to erupt.

Do you accept dental insurance?

We accept most insurance plans and will gladly process your claim. Please bring the necessary information with you on your first visit. Dental insurance policies generally cover only a portion of the total treatment cost. Unless other arrangements have been made, we ask that you pay your portion of the bill at the time of treatment. It is your responsibility to pay any balance not paid by your insurance company.

What do I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you have a dental emergency, contact our office for further instruction. If it is during normal office hours, we will do our best to see you as quickly as possible. For emergencies after hours or during the weekend, contact our office for an emergency number to reach the dentist. We will get in touch with you quickly to recommend a course of treatment.

How often should I visit the dentist for teeth cleaning and check-up?

The American Dental Association recommends a minimum of two visits per year (every six months) for an oral examination and professional dental cleaning. Some patients benefit from more frequent visits, your dentist will recommend a schedule that is best suited for your condition.

Do you offer cosmetic dentistry?

Yes, Dr. Karl Neuhaus is an experienced cosmetic dentist. Whether you wish to make subtle changes to your smile or experience a dramatic transformation, we offer a range of treatment options. Our cosmetic dentistry services include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, cosmetic contouring, and cosmetic bonding.

What causes my jaw to pop when I open it?

There is a disk that separates the jaw bone from the base of the skull. The primary cause of the “popping” occurs when the jaw bone pops off the disk. The noises can be due to a number of reasons, including issues with the bite. If left untreated, structural damage to the joint can occur over time. Learn more about TMJ Therapy.

Does bleaching damage the teeth?

No. When carbamide peroxide, the active agent in teeth whitening, contacts water, hydrogen peroxide is released which whitens the teeth. Bleaching does not soften, demineralize or weaken the teeth.

Are there any alternatives to dentures?

Dentures are no longer the only way to restore a mouth that has little or no non-restorable teeth. Strategically placed support, or dental implants, can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble the feel of real teeth. Dental implants are becoming the alternative of choice to dentures, but not everyone is a candidate for implants.

What causes gum disease?

Gum (periodontal) disease is caused by bacteria that builds up along the gumline, causing irritation and eventually inflammation. Prolonged build up will lead to bleeding gums. Overtime, bacteria will migrate into deeper pockets of the gum and cause bone to demineralize and dissolve. As the bone dissolves around the teeth, the teeth become unsupported and will fall out. Unfortunately, pain does not occur until the final stages of gum disease and treatment at that time has very little chance of being successful. Bleeding gums is an early sign of gum disease, if you have bleeding gums, contact our office for treatment.