Frequently Asked Questions

At Schultz Family Dentistry, we offer a range of comprehensive and cosmetic dental services to patients of all ages. Dr. Schultz has the expertise and knowledge needed to provide every patient with the care they deserve. With a warm and welcoming environment, our patients feel comfortable and can ask any questions they may have about their dental treatment.

Services we offer include but are not limited to:

Why do I need FL2?

Supplemental fluoride treatments help strengthen the teeth by remineralizing the enamel and preventing new cavities from forming. If you are at high risk for decay, we recommend fluoride treatments on a more regular basis. We also have a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste that is recommended for patients with a high risk of decay.

What happens if I get a cavity and don’t get it filled?

The cavity will spread and become larger. Eventually the cavity will enter the nerve chamber and will require a root canal and a crown to save the tooth, in some circumstances the tooth may not be restorable and will require extraction.

Does your office accept my insurance? What will my insurance cover?

SFD accepts most major insurances, specifically, we are a Premier provider with Delta Dental. Coverage varies by plan so in order to verify your benefits at our office, we will need all adequate information including your insurance carrier, date of birth of the policy holder, SSN or Subscriber ID#.

When should my child start seeing the dentist?

Your child should see the dentist 6 months after their first tooth erupts or around their first birthday, whichever comes first. At that first appointment we will review oral hygiene habits, discuss proper nutrition, and Dr. Schultz will do an exam to make sure there are no concerns with tooth development.

How do I straighten my teeth?

At SFD, Dr Schultz will evaluate each patient to determine if they are a candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign is the clear alternative to braces that is much easier for cleaning and eating. The clear aligners are changed every 10-14 days and at the end of treatment, clear retainers are made for retention.

How do I get whiter teeth? What are my options?

We have three different options for whitening here at SFD. We have take-home bleach trays called Opalescence GO ($75), it is 10 trays that you wear for 15 minutes a day for 10 days in a row. We also do custom bleach trays ($350) where we take impressions of your teeth, fabricate trays that are delivered in 1-2 weeks. You wear the trays for 15 minutes a day for two weeks. Our 3rd option in Epic Laser Whitening ($450), which is an in-office procedure that takes about one hour. A prescription-strength gel is applied to the teeth and then activated by a laser. Your teeth will continue to whiten over the next 12-24 hours.

What is an implant? Do you do implants?

An implant is an artificial tooth option for replacing a missing tooth. An implant replaces a missing tooth without involving the surrounding teeth. A titanium base is placed into the bone by an Oral Surgeon, and a crown is fabricated and attached to replace the missing space above the bone by Dr. Schultz.

Why do I need x-rays?

X-rays help us diagnose areas of decay in between the teeth that we are unable to see clinically. They can determine if there is an infection around the root of the tooth and also evaluate the bone levels that support the teeth.

How should I replace my missing teeth? Why replace missing teeth?

There are multiple options for replacing missing teeth. Implants, bridges, and removable appliances are all ways to replace missing teeth. Depending on where the missing tooth is located and the overall health of the mouth will determine which type of replacement is best for you. Replacing missing teeth is recommended so that surrounding teeth do not move or shift to fill the missing space resulting in a change in your bite.

What is a root canal?

The process where the nerve and tissue are removed from the nerve chamber on the inside of the tooth. Small hand held and rotary files are used to clean out the nerve supply and that is then filled in with a rubberized filling material.

What is a crown?

A protective, usually all porcelain, covering that encompasses the entire tooth and is bonded to the remaining natural tooth.

What is OSA?

OSA stands for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. OSA is when the airway collapses during sleep, blocking the flow of air to the lungs. If left untreated, OSA may lead to heart disease, stroke, and/or premature death. Dr. Schultz is a dentist deemed qualified by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine to screen, treat, and provide long-term management for patients who are diagnosed by a physician with OSA, snoring or sleep-related grinding.

Do you make dentures?

Yes. Dr. Schultz makes removable dentures and partials. There are approximately 5 short appointments with Dr. Schultz to take scans, measurements and more to result in the perfect custom fit.

What is the best toothpaste to use?

We recommend a basic ADA approved fluoridated toothpaste. Whitening and tarter control toothpastes can be more abrasive and lead to sensitivity. Patients with history of cold sensitivity can use ADA approved sensitive toothpaste and we also have a prescription strength toothpaste for sensitivity relief and cavity protection.

Does a mouthwash or rinse help keep your teeth clean?

Mouthwashes come in all different kinds for example: cavity protection, sensitivity, and /or fresh breath. Mouthwash may help when you use them with regular brushing and flossing—but not instead of daily cleaning.

What do sealants do?

Sealants protect against cavities that can form in the natural tiny holes and cracks on the outside of teeth. Kids from age 6 to 12 benefit from having sealants done. Sealants are painted and hardened onto the chewing surfaces of their back adult teeth. Adults can get sealants as well to protect teeth that don’t have fillings.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a form of orthodontics to adjust and straighten teeth. Invisalign uses clear, plastic aligners instead of metal brackets to move teeth to the desired position.