Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Flower Mound, TX

How often should I change out my toothbrush?

It’s recommended that you change out your toothbrush once every three months, whenever you notice that the bristles are beginning to fray, or after you’ve gotten sick. This will keep harmful oral bacteria from accumulating on it and transferring to your mouth.

What does it mean if my gums are bleeding?

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, it could be an early sign of gum disease, or gingivitis. When left unchecked, this issue can progress and create permanent problems for your smile, which is why it’s a good idea to visit us for an examination if you notice the issue beginning to get worse. However, in many cases, you can quell the bleeding by flossing at least once a day and brushing for two minutes, twice each day.

Do you treat children?

Yes, Dr. Barge is happy to treat patients of all ages and offers several kid-friendly dental treatments, like dental sealants, frenectomies, pulp therapy, and athletic mouthguards.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?

Dental insurance companies often don’t cover the cost of dental implants. However, that doesn’t mean that they won’t cover certain portions of the process, like sedation and the restoration. Our team will do everything within our abilities to help you maximize your benefits and save you from steep out-of-pocket costs whenever possible. Plus, if you’d like, you can apply for CareCredit to help make the process of paying for your treatment easy and manageable.

Is a water flosser better than regular dental floss?

The answer to this question depends on how confident you feel about your dental flossing abilities. If you can effectively reach between your teeth, regular dental floss is fine. However, if you’re not confident in using string floss and would like a more easy-to-maneuver alternative, a water flosser is a great option. It’s said to be able to reduce more plaque and food debris. Plus, it doesn’t require as much dexterity to handle as traditional floss.

What should I look for in a good cosmetic dentist?

A few key traits to consider in a great cosmetic dentist include, continuing education, a genuine passion for cosmetic dentistry, and experience. It’s also a good idea to peruse your potential cosmetic dentist’s smile gallery to see the results they’re able to achieve in-person. Dr. Barge has years of experience and has attended world-renown dental studies programs to focus on cosmetic dentistry, like the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. You can learn more about her experience by reading her biography.