Tecumseh Dental Center
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FAQ'S
Do you ever think of the questions you wanted to ask the dentist only after you have left the dental office? Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions:


It's important to us you feel like you have answers to all of your questions. So, we've listed a few of our commonly asked questions in case your area of interest might be found here. However, if you need some additional information, don't hesitate to contact us. Thanks!

What Causes Tooth Loss?
How do I know when it's time for a checkup?
How many times a day should I brush my teeth?
Do you accept referrals?
Will you accept my insurance plan?
What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What happens if it comes off or breaks?
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
Crowns, veneers, on-lays, inlays and partials.where can I learn more about these procedures?
Do I have to floss every day?
Why do I need periomaintenance? Can't I just get my teeth cleaned?


What Causes Tooth Loss?

The most common causes of tooth loss are dental caries, also known as tooth decay, and periodontal disease, which affects the gums and bone structure that supports the teeth. Dental caries is the major cause of tooth loss in children, and periodontal disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults; however, it too can afflict youngsters.


How do I know when it's time for a checkup?

We work diligently to make sure you’ll always know what the next steps are. Your hygienist will help you understand what interval is needed to keep your mouth healthy. We’ll schedule your sequential appointment before you leave. We will also send you a card, or give you a call, when you’re due for your next visit. Please note that, especially if you’ve never been into our office, the ADA says most people need to see a dentist three times each year. Make an appointment today and we’ll help you figure out what schedule is best for you.

How many times a day should I brush my teeth?

The American Dental Association advocates brushing twice each day. Although there is research indicating that brushing once a day is sufficient to disrupt the formation of plaque that feeds the bacteria that cause decay, this may not be enough for some people, depending on factors such as their diets and the efficacy of their brushing technique. ADHA recommends that you discuss this with your dental hygienist who understands your individual oral health needs and will be able to make a recommendation appropriate for you.

Do you accept referrals?

Yes. We love referrals. Wonderful people refer wonderful people, so we look forward to treating your friends with the same expert care we extend to you.

Will you accept my insurance plan?

Our office is very up-to-date on insurance. Click here to learn more.

What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

Call our regular phone number at any time. If the office is closed, you’ll be directed to contact us, by one of Doctors home phone numbers, We will then answer any questions pertaining to your emergency and come to the office for emergency treatment if needed.

I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What happens if it comes off or breaks?

We recommend you put it back into place and call the office so we can reset it immediately. Keeping your tooth covered is of utmost importance in this situation. Call or page us for guidance immediately.


What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?

There are so many different ways we put your safety first: using gloves, masks and glasses; ensuring sterilization and disinfection of all instruments and counters; testing our sterilizer weekly to make sure it meets all hospital level standards and more. Our state-of-the-art sterilization center is something you can see at any time if you’re interested in learning more. Each room is cleaned between patients and all proper sterilization procedures are carried out and monitored in meticulous fashion.


Crowns, veneers, on-lays, inlays and partials.where can I learn more about these procedures?

CAESY is a great resource for you when it comes to education about each procedure. So, feel free to read more there. However, no amount of information will be tailored specifically to your need like a one-on-one conversation in our office where we can look at your mouth with you, talk about your goals for comfort and looks and then decide on an action plan that’s perfect for you. So, please take advantage of our relationship with CAESY as you feel appropriate, but know that we would love to talk personally with you about these great restorative and cosmetic options.

Do I have to floss every day?

Yes. Besides cleaning your mouth, flossing daily adds years to your life by eliminating the bacteria that’s around our teeth. The bacteria causes infection, which can seep into your blood stream and cause heart disease. So, besides the health of our mouth, it’s the overall health consideration that makes a daily flossing habit so important. For our teeth, the infection process happens in just a couple of days! Stay on top of your overall health by flossing regularly.


Why do I need periomaintenance? Can't I just get my teeth cleaned?

The word prophy or prophylaxis cleaning means prevention. Prophylaxis appointments, or cleanings, focus on preventing disease such as infection, bone loss, gum loss, etc. Periomaintenance means we’ve gone from a clean/healthy state (where only prevention is needed) into a deeper state, causing a need to really address the health issues within your mouth beyond the prevention level of care. Periodontal maintenance involves going 360 degrees around each tooth. There’s a difference between preventive cleanings and periodontal maintenance. But, trust us on this one: both are important and we’ll always only recommend what you really need.

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Tecumseh Dental Center
1709 Teal Road Lafayette, In 47905
p: 765 477-6487 • f: 765 477-6488
e: info@tecumsehdentalcenter.com