Frequently Asked Questions

Bridle Trails Family Dentist in Kirkland

What Is A Family Dentist?

A family dentist is a specialist who has been trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems for every member of the family. Your family dentist in Kirkland, Dr. Nomi, has completed many years of medical schooling to practice dentistry for patients of all ages.

After schooling, a dentist can receive either a DDS or DMD degree. DDS is a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, and DMD is a Doctor of Dental Medicine. Some doctors specialize in pediatric dentistry, which means that they work with children from infancy through their teenage years. There are other specializations that a dentist may go to school for:

Are Regular Dental Cleanings Necessary?

Here at Bridle Trails Family Dentistry, we know how busy life can be. Fitting a dental appointment into your schedule can be difficult for a busy family. Biannual visits to the dentist are highly recommended to prevent cavities, maintain proper oral hygiene, and catch problems in your teeth and gums before they become expensive and painful.

You can help prevent tooth decay and bacteria in your mouth by brushing your teeth two times a day and flossing each night at home. But no one should miss biannual exams and cleanings.

Do I Need To See A Dentist Even If My Teeth Feel Fine?

It’s crucial to schedule visits to the dentist regularly for cleanings at Bridle Trails Family Dentistry. Dr. Nomi recommends visiting twice a year. Not all dental problems have apparent symptoms, and catching them early will save a lot of money, time, and hassle.

Not only can we identify problems before they become painful and expensive, but with regular checkups we can also help keep your smile looking fantastic. We know how important it is to feel comfortable with your smile, so we offer many cosmetic dentistry treatments to help improve patient aesthetics.

What’s A Dental Cleaning Like At Bridle Trails Family Dentistry?

Six-month dental visits for an exam and cleaning are recommended for proper oral hygiene. At Bridle Trails Family Dentistry in Kirkland, WA, an appointment includes:

  • full oral examination
  • oral cancer exam
  • professional x-rays
  • thorough cleaning

Your teeth cleaning will remove tartar, debris, and plaque from your mouth. Dr. Nomi coordinates with your hygienist and recommends a treatment plan for any problems that are found. We’ll also recommend cosmetic treatments or oral appliances to improve your smile.

At What Age Should I Bring My Child To See The Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends starting dental checkups as early as six months of age or when a child’s teeth begin to show. Dr. Nomi will be able to examine the health of your child’s first few teeth and make recommendations.

When Should I Change My Toothbrush?

Dr. Nomi recommends getting a new toothbrush at least every three months or when the bristles start to fan out. If you’re using an electric toothbrush, check the brand recommendation because you may not have to change the head of the brush as often as a regular toothbrush. Read here to learn more.

If a patient has gum disease, Dr. Nomi recommends that you change your brush more often than every three months. It’s essential to thoroughly wash and rinse your brush with hot water and store it upright to dry between uses to kill bacteria.

How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Plaque and bacteria naturally build up in a patient’s mouth. When the buildup is not countered sufficiently with brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can cause gum disease. Risk factors for gum disease include:

  • teeth grinding
  • Some medications
  • Gingivitis
  • Poor dental care
  • Smoking or chewing tobacco, vaping
  • Hormonal changes
  • Obesity
  • Inadequate nutrition, including vitamin C deficiency
  • Genetics

Advanced forms of periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss and permanent damage. Dr. Nomi recommends brushing and flossing every day and scheduling dental appointments every six months as the best ways to fight gum disease. Learn more here.

What are common signs of periodontal disease?

  • Abscessed teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
  • Loose teeth
  • Loss of teeth
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Receding gums

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us at (425) 454-4298 & (425) 881-9333 or email us to schedule a consultation. Your dental health is our highest concern.

Do You Accept Dental Insurance?

Here at Bridle Trails Family Dentistry, we accept most insurance and PPO plans. Please call our office at (425) 454-4298 & (425) 881-9333 for more insurance information. Before calling, have your insurance information ready. Also, please plan to pay your co-pay or deductible portion at the time of service.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

Here at Bridle Trails Family Dentistry, we accept cash, checks, cashier’s checks, Visa, Master Card, Amex, and Discover. If none of these payment methods suit your needs, we provide payment plans through our office or third-party financing through Care Credit.

We also provide discounts for those able to pay in full at the time of service. If you have any more questions regarding payment methods, please call us at (425) 454-4298 & (425) 881-9333, and we’ll do our best to find the right solution for you.

If you have additional questions, please call your family dentist in Kirkland, Washington. We are happy to help.