Helpful Answers for Our Patients
What Is Dentistry?
Dentistry is the branch of healthcare focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating disorders and diseases of the teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Proper dental care is essential for maintaining overall oral health and plays a vital role in supporting the health of the entire body.What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a healthcare professional trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Dentists, like Dr. Dutton, complete several years of rigorous medical and dental education to practice safely and effectively. Upon graduation, a dentist earns either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree.
Some dentists choose to specialize in specific areas of dentistry. For example, pediatric dentists focus on caring for children from infancy through the teenage years. Other dental specialties include:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Dentistry – focuses on oral surgery, radiology, and pathology.
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics – corrects misaligned teeth and jaws.
- Endodontics – specializes in root canal therapy.
- Periodontics – focuses on the prevention and treatment of gum disease.
- Prosthodontics – specializes in dental implants, crowns, and dentures.
Are Regular Dental Cleanings Necessary?
At CopperMine Dental Studio, we understand that life gets busy, and fitting in a dental appointment can feel challenging. While brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing after meals helps prevent many oral health issues, it’s not always enough.
Regular dental cleanings—ideally every six months—are essential for maintaining optimal oral hygiene. These visits help remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing can miss, and they allow us to catch potential problems early, before they become painful or expensive to treat.
Do I Need to See a Dentist Even If My Teeth Feel Fine?
Even if your teeth feel healthy, regular dental visits are essential. At CopperMine Dental Studio, Dr. Dutton recommends scheduling checkups twice a year. Many dental issues can develop without causing noticeable symptoms.
Routine visits allow us to detect problems early—before they become painful or costly—and help maintain the health and appearance of your smile. We understand how important it is to feel confident in your smile, which is why we offer a variety of treatments designed to enhance both oral health and aesthetics.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning at CopperMine Dental Studio
We recommend dental cleanings every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy. At CopperMine Dental Studio, your visit includes:- A comprehensive oral examination
- An oral cancer screening
- Professional X-rays to detect cavities early
- A full cleaning by our skilled hygienists, removing plaque, tartar, and debris
At What Age Should I Bring My Child To See The Dentist?
Dental professionals, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), recommend bringing a child in as early as six months, when their first teeth start to appear. Dr. Dutton can examine your child’s new teeth and provide guidance on proper care and next steps.When Should I Change My Toothbrush?
Dr. Dutton recommends replacing your toothbrush at least every three months. If you use an electric toothbrush, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, as the brush head may not need to be replaced as frequently. Patients with gum disease may need to change their toothbrush more often. After each use, it’s important to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with hot water to remove bacteria and keep it clean.How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, occurs when plaque and bacteria build up in the mouth. If left untreated in its early stages, this buildup can lead to gum disease. Factors such as smoking, chewing tobacco, teeth grinding, certain medications, and genetics can also contribute. Advanced periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss, as well as permanent damage.
Dr. Dutton recommends brushing and flossing daily and scheduling dental appointments every six months to help prevent gum disease. Common signs of periodontal disease include:
- Abscessed teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Receding gum line
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us at 520-838-0600 or email us to schedule a consultation. Your dental health is out highest concern.
Do You Accept Insurance?
At CopperMine Dental Studio, we accept most insurance and PPO plans. To confirm coverage, please call our office at 520-838-0600. Before calling, have your insurance information ready, and plan to pay your co-pay or deductible at the time of service.What Payment Methods Do You Accept?
For your convenience, we accept cash, check, cashier’s checks, Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and Discover. If these options do not meet your needs, we also offer payment plans through our office or third-party financing via CareCredit. Discounts are available for patients who pay in full at the time of service. For any questions about payment options, call us at 520-838-0600, and we’ll help find the best solution for you.