Riverview Family Dentistry

We recognize that while your dental health is important to you, affording the treatment you need may cause budget concerns even with dental insurance. We have developed a number of financial options to fit nearly any budget. If you have questions or would like to discuss which option might work best for you, please call our office at (563)583-3788.

A: The brand of the toothbrush is not as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. A soft toothbrush is the only toothbrush you should use because medium and hard brushes actually wear away tooth structure and contribute to recession of the gums. It's unnecessary to "scrub" the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings.

A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. Most dental cleanings take only between 25 and 30 minutes. Cleanings should be performed every six months to prevent excessive plaque buildup. Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay.

A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape when it effects less than 50% of the tooth structure. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material.

Halitosis is sophisticated word for "bad breath". Depending on the cause, bad breath may strike on occasion or be a persistent condition. The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria. Because the mouth is moist and warm, it creates perfect conditions for the millions of bacteria that live in the mouth.