FAQs
Administrative Questions
What Can I Expect When I First Visit Dr. Engelsberg?
Your initial consultation is scheduled for 90 minutes. It begins with intra-oral photographs and x-rays. A member of the team will conduct a preliminary evaluation and discussion. Dr. Engelsberg will then perform an exam and tour your mouth with you to explain the condition of your teeth and gums. Your photos will be displayed on a computer monitor so you can see what he sees. He will discuss your concerns and goals for dental care. Together, you will design a customized treatment plan to exceed your expectations while meeting your budget.
What happens if I have a dental emergency and the office is closed?
Our practice provides dental care 24/7 for our patients of record. Dr. Engelsberg is more than happy to take phone calls after hours-he knows how painful a sore tooth can be! A patient of record has been seen and received treatment in the office within the last 18 months. If you are a patient of record in need of emergency dental care, please call the main line where you will be given an emergency number.
How Much Will Treatment Cost?
If you are in need of dental services, Dr. Engelsberg will develop a treatment plan designed specifically for you. Since people have different wants and needs, there is no single treatment that is best. Some people want state-of-the-art treatment, regardless of cost. Others may be constrained by insurance and other financial issues. Still some may want the treatment that takes the least amount of time. The cost of your treatment will depend on your individual needs.
Will you accept my dental insurance?
Absolutely. If your insurance provider allows you to choose your dentist, we will file your claim and accept your copay or deductible.
What payment methods do you accept?
We gladly accept cash, check, credit cards, and financing through approved vendors. Reasonable financing is available for qualified applicants through CareCredit, Capital One Healthcare Finance, and CitiHealth offer reasonable financing for qualified applicants. Visit these companies online to apply.
Implant Questions
Why are dental implants better than a traditional fixed bridge?
With a traditional crown and bridge system, we must crown the healthy teeth on either side of the space the bridge will fill. The healthy teeth's crowns hold the fixed bridge in place. Implants, however, require no alteration of healthy tooth structure. The implant posts can be positioned in the sockets that formerly held teeth. An implant-supported bridge connects to the implant posts rather than healthy teeth.
Are there different kinds of dental implants?
Yes. Not only are there different brands of implants, but many styles and models exist. Dr. Engelsberg will determine, with your input, the best implant solution for your unique case.
What makes a person a good candidate for dental implants?
If you have healthy teeth and gums, and your jawbone density is sufficient, you probably qualify for dental implants. Dr. Engelsberg will review your case and consult with you on your options.
What's involved with dental implant surgery and recovery?
Placing dental implants involves a brief, but precise surgery in which Dr. Engelsberg places small, biocompatible titanium posts into the sockets left by missing teeth. Your bone will naturally integrate with the titanium post to form a solid foundation, much like a natural, healthy tooth root. Healing can take about three months, though recovery time varies from case to case. You can wear temporaries until your implants are secure enough to hold permanent crowns or a prosthetic (bridge, partial, or denture). To see an illustration of a dental implant procedure, click here.
If I've lived with dentures for this long, why should I consider dental implants?
Dentures wear out, so you may have to replace them in time. This will involve taking a new impression, creating the dentures in a lab, and the discomfort associated with adjusting to a new set of dentures. Furthermore, dentures do not help retain bone structure, so your bone tissue can deteriorate, which compromises appearance and oral function. Implants promote bone regeneration, which reduces potential for bone reduction. They are comfortable, require no adhesive or special care routine, and they can last a lifetime with proper oral healthcare.
General Dentistry Questions
Why are checkups recommended every six months, even when nothing's wrong?
In a checkup, Dr. Engelsberg looks for potential problems. This can include oral cancer lesions, early signs of gum disease, cracked or chipped teeth, tooth decay, and function problems, among others. Early detection allows for early treatment, which means less invasive dentistry. Regular checkups can save you time and money, in addition to preserving your natural tooth structure and optimal oral health.
My gums bleed when I brush. Should I worry?
Swollen and bleeding gums may indicate early signs of periodontal, or gum disease. Because these symptoms are generally mild, many people ignore them and the disease progresses. In fact, gum disease is the number-one cause of adult tooth decay. If you notice that your gums bleed after you brush, or if they are red, swollen, or tender, contact office to make an appointment.
What is oral cancer, and how serious is it?
Oral cancer is diagnosed in 8000 Americans each year. Half of the people diagnosed will live less than five years. If we find oral cancer in the earliest stages, the potential for survival increases by 50-70%. Oral cancer screening is a service we provide during your initial consultation and at every re-care appointment.
What is "occlusion," and why is it important?
Occlusion refers to the way in which the top and bottom teeth fit together. When jaws do not come together properly, associated muscles and nerves can become irritated. This can result in pain, teeth grinding, reduced function, and other problems. Occlusion may also be related to the position of teeth, meaning their alignment on the jaw. In this case, orthodontics may help. When teeth grinding, called bruxism, causes tooth wear, Dr. Engelsberg may reestablish proper occlusion by restoring the shape and size of teeth with cosmetic bonding and/or crowns. Missing teeth can cause occlusion problems, as well.
What are the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction (misaligned jaw joints)?
Many problems can stem from TMJ dysfunction, including: migraines, headaches, earaches, neck/jaw/shoulder pain, low back pain, popping or clicking jaw joints, limited oral function, tingling extremities, tooth wear from grinding teeth, and others.
Sarasota, FL 34243
941-351-5777