Dental FAQs in Mount Vernon, WA
What is dentistry?
Dentistry is a section of medicine that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all conditions related to the teeth, gums, and other areas around the mouth.
What is a dentist?
A dentist like Dr. Fernandez works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Dr. Fernandez has completed at least eight years of schooling; she earned her Bachelor’s degree in biology and her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Puerto Rico School of Dentistry. Dr. Fernandez is fluent in both Spanish and English.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
Choosing a dentist who you trust with you and your family is important. During your first visit, you should be able to determine whether the dentist is right for you. Consider the following:
- Who do your friends, neighbors, and coworkers trust with their oral health?
- Is the office close to home or work?
- Do they have office hours that fit into your schedule?
- Does the dentist you are choosing work with your insurance company?
- Do they offer emergency care?
- How does the office handle referrals?
Look for a dentist that makes you feel comfortable. If you are considering Fernandez Dental as your dental home, call our Mount Vernon office to set up a time to come in and meet the Dr. Fernandez and our team.
Why is visiting the dentist so important?
Your oral health is important whether you are one or 100! Taking good care of your teeth and gums at home, along with your regular cleanings and checkups at our office, is the most effective way of preventing cavities and gum-related issues.
Some people avoid going to the dentist because of fear, anxiety, or the unknown. It is so much easier to prevent or deal with a small problem, instead of it becoming a painful, more extensive, costly one.
How can I maintain oral health between visits to your office?
Utilizing the tips, tools, and the advice given by our hygienists is the very best way to maintain your oral health. This includes healthy eating, brushing and flossing, and regular professional cleanings at our Mount Vernon dental office.
If I have braces, do I still need to visit the dentist?
When you have braces, it is vital to continue seeing your general dentist for your regular cleanings at least every six months. It is challenging to keep your teeth clean with braces in place. Even the most diligent patient will have some difficulty keeping their teeth clean. Wearing braces makes you more prone to plaque and tartar buildup, which need to be removed to prevent damage to your teeth and gums.
What’s involved in my first visit?
At your first appointment at Fernandez Dental, you will be welcomed to our practice by our front office. You will be asked to fill out a dental and health history form. You will then be escorted back to a treatment room by one of our dental assistants. She will go over your dental and health history, asking you questions to better help us know you and your needs. If needed, a full set of digital X-rays and intraoral photos will be taken.
Dr. Fernandez will come in and answer any initial questions or concerns you may have. She will then complete a comprehensive exam including:
- Head and neck exam
- Oral tissue check/VELScope® oral cancer screening
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) exam
Dr. Fernandez will review and document all previously placed fillings or crowns, along with any new cavities, or restorations needed. She will let you know if any dental treatment is needed and what type of cleaning you will need to keep your mouth in excellent health.
What are the most common dental issues you treat?
We offer comprehensive dental care for children and adults, including:
- Tooth decay/cavities
- Gum disease
- Fractures of the teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Infections of the teeth, and or gums
- Wearing down of teeth
- Toothaches/emergencies
- Mouth sores
- Dry mouth
- Oral cancer
- TMJ problems (temporomandibular joint)
- Cosmetic issues
Regardless of the dental procedures recommended, we place your needs and comfort first. It is our priority to make sure you understand the treatment that is needed, and that you have no apprehension in receiving the needed treatment. We always say, “The patient is in charge,” and we mean it!
Why should I choose Fernandez Dental for my oral health needs?
Our patients’ comfort and care are our top priority. No matter if it has been years or months since your last dental visit, we will treat you with respect and with your needs in mind.