Patient Resources

What are immediate implants?

An immediate dental implant is a dental implant that is placed the same day as the extraction. Patients do not have to wait for the extraction site to heal, and they can even receive a temporary restoration the very same day. Typically, implants take months to heal before the crown, bridge, or denture is secured. With immediate implants, you can leave the office the same day as the extraction with a full set of teeth, although you will need to return so the dentist can place the permanent restoration.

Mini dental implants are also referred to as “immediate implants,” because they can be placed in a single day. Often used to stabilize a lower denture, mini dental implants offer patients an alternative to traditional dental implants. Because they’re so small, the mini implants can be embedded in the jawbone without surgery, and the denture can be secured that same visit. During your consultation, we can discuss your options and create a step-by-step treatment plan that will restore your smile to a healthy, beautiful state.

Does your office cater to fearful patients?

Yes! Many patients fear dental visits, and we have over 27 years of experience helping Poughkeepsie-area patients cope. Our gentle, caring demeanor and thorough dental explanations help ease tension, and we also offer three forms of sedation dentistry. The level of sedation you receive will be catered to your unique needs, and the dentist will help you decide if this is the right option for you.

Should I be concerned about metal fillings?

The FDA recently released a warning against metal fillings for pregnant women and patients with mercury sensitivity. Because mercury is a hazardous substance, we do not place metal fillings in our office. We use safe, tooth-colored fillings, and the dentist can also replace old, metal dental work with strong, natural-looking alternatives.

What are no-prep veneers?

Traditional veneers require the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel for bonding. With no-prep veneers, the dentist creates veneers so thin that they can be bonded directly to the tooth surface without altering any tooth structure. With no-prep veneers, you can remove the veneers in the future and return to your original smile, if you so choose.

Is laser dentistry safe?

Laser dentistry is actually more precise than traditional cut-and-sew dentistry. The laser’s concentrated beam of light allows the dentist to target specific areas without affection surrounding tissues. The laser also sterilizes the tissues it contacts, minimizes bleeding, and encourages faster healing times. At our practice, we use a soft-tissue laser for extreme precision, efficiency, and greater patient comfort.