FAQs

Yes, we practice preventative and general dentistry for adults and children. We recognize that there are many people who function at a level that only requires good, solid maintenance and routine office visits.

Most adults require quarterly visits to maintain optimum periodontal health and longevity. We tailor our recall visits to your unique conditions.

Occlusion has to do with the way the teeth fit. If the teeth fit, but the muscles that support the jaw are not happy in that position, the result can be headaches, neck aches, TMJ (jaw joint) problems, broken or severely worn teeth, receding gums and loosening of the teeth. If the teeth, bones, joints and muscles are in harmony, the “permanence” or longevity of the dentistry required is highly predictable.

The matrix of muscles that surround the jaw joints and lower jaw also attach to the skull, neck or cervical spine, and the shoulder girdle or what physical therapists call the upper quadrant. There are also peripheral muscles relating to swallowing and head posture that, when stressed by poor bite or occlusion, can be in low grade spasm that ultimately results in headaches.

Very definitely! Pops, clicks and grinding or sandy-sounding noises mean there is something going on in the joint that is not normal. It usually indicates disharmony between the muscles of mastication and the way the teeth fit, resulting in stretching or tearing of the supporting cartilage and ligaments in the TMJ itself. If these signs and symptoms are accompanied by pain, better have it checked out–quick!

A mouth guard is typically rubber-like material not specifically made for your mouth. It is used only to “guard” teeth from breaking. A bite splint is a hard acrylic appliance made in a dental lab specifically to fit your lower teeth. You will undergo a three to six month therapy. Our goal is for you to achieve a comfortable, stable, solid bite that relaxes your muscles and jaw.

A co-discovery exam is offered to all of our new and existing patients in lieu of a quick check-up. Our practice is based on a standard of optimal oral health personalized to your needs. We involve you in our complete examination for diagnosis and treatment planning. The exam takes into account all areas of your mouth including teeth, muscles and joints and in what way they function together. This comprehensive approach is the best approach for achieving fine results that last.

Our practice offers both composite (tooth colored) and amalgam (silver) fillings.

We use heat sterilization and disposable barriers on everything that comes into contact with patients in the treatment environment. We instituted these procedures long before AIDS and Hepatitis were an issue with dental sterilization. We use protective eyewear, lead apron protection for all x-rays and high powered magnification to provide better vision and precision to dental procedures.

Yes, x-rays are necessary for complete diagnosis. We are acutely aware of patient concerns about radiation. For that reason, we have converted to all digital x-ray equipment, reducing radiation exposure by 85%.

If the gums are bleeding, they need some personal and professional help. Our dental hygienist’s goal is to move her patients to maximum health and comfort as is personally attainable. The key is to teach all patients how to maintain a personalized program of home-care and regular professional maintenance.

Fluoride is a topical application that any age enamel accepts. Adults can become more cavity prone especially when taking certain medications.

You don’t have to floss all your teeth, just the ones you want to keep. The floss cleans the sides of the teeth – the brush cleans the front, back and top.

Yes, our dental lab will custom make trays to fit your teeth. You will receive tubes of gel bleach for nightly use and we will monitor shade changes on a weekly basis until the desired whiteness is achieved.

Landmark Dental Care encourages early interceptive treatment. Age 13 is the benchmark, especially for girls, because of hormone growth rate. Treating many TMJ disorders, Landmark Dental Care is experienced in detecting early developing TMJ problems in children. Many times we can identify developing TMJ problems and apply early interceptive treatment by one of our network of professional orthodontists. Early interceptive orthodontics is one of the best possible services for a child. Early treatment when a child is growing solves a myriad of problems later. The result is beautiful faces, healthy jaw joints, perfect occlusion and very few TMJ related headaches as an adult.

In addition to meeting all the state requirements for dentistry, Dr. Parekh attends mini-seminars, the Seattle study club and Pankey study clubs. She is also affiliated with several professional organizations that conduct ongoing seminars. She is currently in a mini-residency for oral facial and TMD pain.

We are almost exclusively a referral practice, built upon the kind referrals of our existing patients.

We ask that you give a 24 hour notice; however, we realize that it is not always possible. To cancel, please call us during regular business hours or, after hours, you may leave a message on our voice mail.