Frequently Asked Questions

Invisalign treatment can be completed in as little as six months for many patients. Treatment time varies based on the complexity of tooth alignment needed and patient compliance with wearing aligners. At Bettendorf Family Dental, we use custom 3D-scanned aligners to create personalized treatment plans.

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover the entire front surface of teeth, while bonding uses tooth-colored resin applied directly to repair or enhance specific areas. Veneers typically last longer and resist staining better, but bonding is less invasive and more affordable. Both options effectively improve smile appearance.

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when tooth pulp becomes infected or severely damaged, often causing persistent pain, sensitivity, or swelling. This endodontic therapy preserves your natural tooth and eliminates discomfort. At Bettendorf Family Dental, we use root canals to save teeth that would otherwise require extraction.

Yes, dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can screen for sleep apnea and provide treatment options including oral appliance therapy. At Bettendorf Family Dental, we offer at-home sleep studies, custom oral appliances, and CPAP therapy recommendations to address sleep disorders effectively.

Sedation dentistry options include nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, and other sedative medications to reduce anxiety during dental procedures. These methods help patients feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their treatment. At Bettendorf Family Dental, we customize sedation approaches to provide stress-free dental experiences.

Professional take-home whitening kits use custom-fitted trays and dental-grade bleaching gel to gradually brighten teeth over several applications. This method delivers noticeable results while allowing you to whiten on your own schedule. The professional-strength formula produces more dramatic and longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products.

Dental emergencies include severe tooth pain, broken or cracked teeth, knocked-out teeth, and other dental trauma requiring immediate attention. These situations need prompt care to prevent infection, save teeth, or stop bleeding. At Bettendorf Family Dental, we provide urgent care for emergency dental situations.

Dental crowns cap and protect single damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their strength and appearance. Bridges replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth. Both restorations improve function and aesthetics while preserving your smile.

Clear aligners are created using precise 3D scanning technology that maps your unique tooth positions and bite alignment. This digital scan generates custom aligners designed to gradually shift teeth into proper position. The 3D scanning process ensures comfortable fit and effective treatment without traditional braces.

General dentistry preventive care includes routine dental cleanings, comprehensive examinations, and early detection screenings for cavities and gum disease. These services help maintain oral health and catch problems before they become serious. Regular preventive visits are essential for patients of all ages.

Yes, dental bonding effectively repairs chipped, cracked, or damaged teeth using tooth-colored composite resin. The material is shaped and bonded directly to the tooth surface, restoring both function and appearance. Bonding provides a conservative, same-day solution for minor to moderate tooth damage.

Oral appliance therapy offers a comfortable, portable alternative to CPAP machines for treating sleep apnea. Custom-fitted dental devices reposition the jaw to keep airways open during sleep. Many patients find oral appliances easier to tolerate and more convenient for travel than traditional CPAP equipment.