Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the more frequently asked questions Dr. Josephson and his staff have heard throughout the years. Look them over, and get a feel for the philosophy of our dental office, as well as more in-depth information on some of the services we provide. If you have a question that isn't on this list, do give Dr. Josephson and his staff a call at (412) 361-7300. We'd be happy to answer your questions.

Can you show me what my smile can look like ahead of time with imaging software?

Yes, we'd be happy to. In fact, we encourage this process to help you visualize the end results of cosmetic and restorative work. We will take a model of your teeth as they are today, and then create a mock-up that will be nearly an exact replica of what your smile can look like. We can also offer you a photograph of your "new" smile before you really get it. We take a digital photograph of your smile as it is today, and by simply asking the right questions and keying in the correct input into the computer, we will generate a photographic image with our software to show you the exciting possibility.

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What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?

We provide emergency service for our patients of record. Please call our office and leave a voice mail to let us know the nature of your condition. We will return your call as soon as possible, give you helpful information over the phone, and then determine if you need to be seen immediately.

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My child has had an accident and his/her tooth has been entirely knocked out. What do I do?

Please contact us immediately to see Dr. Josephson as soon as possible. There may be a chance we can save the tooth. Simply describe the situation over the phone and our office staff will help you determine the safest and most appropriate plan of action. Sometimes it's helpful to immerse the tooth in a cup of milk so the calcium can continue feeding the bone.

If it is a true medical emergency with uncontrolled bleeding, unconsciousness or other bodily injury, please call 911 or rush your child to the nearest emergency room.

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Crowns, veneers, on-lays, inlays and partials.where can I learn more about these procedures?

These are all exciting cosmetic and restorative procedures we offer to create a more natural-looking smile. Our goal is to help you realize all of the cosmetic and restorative dental options available. Simply click on the Patient Library link in the navigation, then select your article topic from the listing provided. But, if you desire even more information about a larger variety of topics, click here to visit the American Dental Association Web site.

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I brush everyday, but my breath just is not fresh. Is there anything I can do?

Yes, we believe there is. Millions of people struggle with halitosis, or bad breath, despite daily teeth brushing. At home, there are several procedures you can try to eliminate bad breath, such as twice daily brushing, daily flossing and tongue cleaning. If you wear dentures or removable dental appliances, carefully clean them regularly. At the dental office, regular professional cleanings will go a long way toward keeping your mouth as fresh as possible.

However, if your hygiene is meticulous and the problem persists, we can recommend a specially-prepared rinse or toothpaste designed to actually break the odor-causing sulfur bonds that cause bad breath. If we suspect a systemic or internal problem, such as an infection or underlying condition, we may recommend you visit your family physician.

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I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?

It's called instant orthodontics---without the braces! Dr. Josephson can improve the look of your front teeth with porcelain veneers, thin wafers of porcelain applied directly over your front teeth. For slightly crooked or unevenly worn teeth, a bit of reshaping and the addition of porcelain veneers may be sufficient to give them a bright, uniform look. Dr. Josephson would be happy to speak with you further about the option best suiting your individual situation.

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My spouse snores and keeps me up at night. I have heard a dentist might be able to prescribe an appliance that prevents snoring. Can you help?

Not many people think of speaking about this problem with their dentist, but it's true we might be able to help. We're very knowledgeable about the oral cavity, from which of course, snoring emanates. We have been able to help several patients with this problem. In some cases, a person may actually stop breathing for short periods during the night - a condition called sleep apnea. In other cases, snoring can be caused by enlarged anatomical structures within the mouth and throat.

During sleep, the throat area relaxes, allowing these structures to collapse against one another and obstruct clear airflow. In the latter situation, we can prescribe and fit a special appliance called a "snore-guard," which gently holds the mouth and throat in an open position during relaxed sleep and thus prevents snoring. We encourage you to have your spouse come in for a consultation and analysis with Dr. Josephson to determine the cause. This way both of you can get a good night's rest.

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What is Smile Analysis?

With a smile analysis, Dr. Josephson will spend unrushed time with you to determine what you want. In this examination, he will analyze your smile, teeth, facial symmetry, lips, and many other features of your mouth and face. Each person has a unique "perfect" smile, one proportional and flattering to his or her face, and Dr. Josephson's analysis will let you know what your best smile can look like.

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What is Smile Design?

After the smile analysis, Dr. Josephson will actually design your new smile, one unique and "perfect" for you. Our experience of watching our patients react to their new smile is almost overwhelming. We see an immediate change in their confidence and their interaction with others. The highlight of smile design is watching your eyes light up the first time you look in the mirror at the change that has taken place.

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Do I have to floss every day? Is it really that important?

We know you really know the answer to this one! But we also know how difficult it can be to maintain the flossing habit. If you can commit yourself to flossing 30 straight days in a row, you'll probably be able to keep the habit for life.

Regular flossing goes a long way, and is truly critical for your overall oral health. Flossing loosens food particles in tight spaces your toothbrush cannot reach, rids your teeth of plaque build-up toothbrushes alone cannot remove, and exercises your gum tissues. All of which is necessary to avoid gum disease. So, just think of daily flossing as the finishing touch after brushing, and insurance for your smile's future.

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© 2004 Gerald M. Josephson, DMD ~ Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry ~ Site designed & maintained by TNT Dental