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FAQs

I’ve been afraid of the dentist for years. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?
How are problems in my mouth linked to overall health problems?
Why are checkups important if I have good oral hygiene?
I have chronic headaches, could this be caused by a dental condition?
My teeth are a little crooked, but I don’t want to wear braces. Do I have any other options?
Why should I be concerned with the dental lab my dentist uses?

I’ve been afraid of the dentist for years. Is there anything you can do to help me relax?
Many patients with fear or anxiety visit Dr. Locke for their treatment. We make it a priority to address your concerns immediately, as well as thoroughly explain your options for treatment. Too many dentists take for granted that the patient understands the procedures they recommend. Dr. Locke will work with you until you’re absolutely comfortable and familiar with your oral health options. With sedation dentistry, we can perform many procedures in a single visit and help you relax before your visit. Dr. Locke has already helped many patients overcome dental anxiety. Read their comments here.

How are problems in my mouth linked to overall health problems?
As the gateway to the rest of your body, the mouth plays a significant role in your systemic health. Bacteria in your gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, such as the brain and heart. Recent studies have linked gum disease to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, and pregnancy complications. Keeping your mouth healthy and disease-free can prevent serious problems with overall health in the future.

Why are checkups important if I have good oral hygiene?
Regular checkups are essential to prevent major dental issues from arising in the future. The American Dental Association recommends regular checkups every six months, but Dr. Locke will cater your schedule to your specific needs. During a checkup, we screen for oral cancer, check for early signs of gum disease, and inspect your teeth for decay, cracks, or fractures. Keeping regularly scheduled appointments prevents the need for more extensive dentistry and will allow you to conserve time, resources, and more natural tooth structure.

I have chronic headaches, could this be caused by a dental condition?
Yes. Many patients who suffer from chronic headaches have a condition known as TMJ dysfunction. Misaligned jaw joints create tension in the head, neck, and back. Dr. Locke can often alleviate TMJ-related pain with a custom oral appliance that stabilizes the bite and eases the stress placed on irritated jaw joints.

My teeth are a little crooked, but I don’t want to wear braces. Do I have any other options?
Slightly crooked and widely spaced teeth can often be corrected in just one or two visits with porcelain veneers or cosmetic bonding. Veneers are thin, porcelain casings that reshape teeth and enhance the overall appearance of a smile. Bonding is a one-visit procedure during which Dr. Locke places a putty-like substance over the teeth and cures it with a special light. Bonding closes gaps and repairs chips or breaks.

Why should I be concerned with the lab my dentist uses?
Your dentist’s training and experience should rank high on your priorities, but you should also consider which dental labs he or she uses. For high quality restorations, we select American-based labs with reputations for excellence. An established lab will deliver quality restorations that last long-term.