What insurance does Dr. Guess accept?
Dr. Guess is a preferred provider with Cigna, Delta, Humana, and Metlife. We also accept any PPO Dental plan and will file your insurance even if we are not in network.
Do you do the lip/tongue tie laser treatments?
Dr. Guess is proud to offer laser lip/tongue tie treatments. As a pioneer in Laser Dentistry here in Wichita Falls, Dr. Guess is one of the only dentists in the area to offer such treatment.
Why is oral hygiene so important?
Adults, 35 and over, lose more teeth from gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected by gum disease at some point in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by regular tooth brushing and flossing. Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough, daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.
What is Gingivitis, Periodontitis, and Perio Maintenance?
Periodontal disease is characterized by infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that surrounds and supports the teeth. In its beginning stage, called gingivitis, the gums may have redness, swelling, and bleeding. In its more advanced stage, called periodontitis, the gums pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may become mobile or even fall out. Periodontal disease is caused by a long-term build up of hardened bacteria called calculus. Treatment generally begins with an advanced form of cleaning, called Scaling and Root Planing, then followed up with gingival therapy using the diode laser. It is imperative to maintain your oral health with perio maintenance cleanings every 3-4 months. Periodontal disease does not go away on its own and requires more frequent cleanings because the periodontal pockets build up with bacteria much quicker than in healthy gums. If you continue to stay on track with your oral hygiene, periodontal pockets can shrink, gums can become healthier, and bleeding can stop. Our hygienists work with you to restore your oral health, but we rely on you to do your part at home every day, so we can provide you with the tools you may need such as toothbrushes, floss, prescription toothpaste, or prescription mouth rinses.
What are sealants and why do you recommend them for me or my child?
Pit and fissure sealants are recommended for both children and adults to prevent cavities from forming in the deep pits and grooves of molars and premolars. Many dental insurances cover sealants up to teenage years. For more information on sealants, click here.
Are X-Rays really necessary?
It is recommended that you get routine diagnostic radiographs based on the American Dental Association guidelines (a full mouth series every 3-5 years and bitewings every 1-2 years). Radiographs are necessary for Dr. Guess to diagnose and treat possible decay (cavities), infection, fractured teeth, bone loss due to gum disease, and tumors. Without periodic radiographs, dentists cannot identify and disclose potential problems, which could lead to serious jaw infections, tooth loss, and bone destruction leading to potential jaw fractures. No other reasonable option to dental radiographs exists at this time and the dose of radiation is minimal from such dental radiographs; necessary precautions will be taken to ensure exposure is minimal (lead apron, collar and digital imaging).
