Arlington Dental

10/17/2026

10/17/2026

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns typically last 5 to 15 years, although many can last 15 to 20 years or longer with proper care. Their lifespan depends on the crown material, oral hygiene habits, bite pressure, and everyday wear and tear. Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and zirconia crowns each offer different benefits and durability. Crowns on back teeth may experience more pressure from chewing, while habits such as teeth grinding, nail biting, or chewing hard objects can increase the risk of damage.

To help your dental crown last longer, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, and attend regular dental checkups and cleanings. Avoid chewing ice or other hard objects, and consider a night guard if you grind your teeth. Signs that a crown may need attention include cracks, looseness, discomfort, or sensitivity around the tooth. Although dental crowns are designed to protect damaged teeth, they may eventually need repair or replacement. Regular dental visits help your dentist monitor your crown and address potential problems early.

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Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 641-0500

Google Maps Location:
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https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/16/2026

How often must I wear the aligners?

10/16/2026

How Long Is a Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar buildup and your overall oral health. During the appointment, a dental hygienist removes plaque and hardened tartar, cleans between the teeth, and polishes the tooth surfaces to help keep your smile healthy. Your dentist may also examine your teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other dental concerns. If you have significant tartar buildup, gum inflammation, or periodontal disease, your cleaning may take longer or require multiple visits.

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, can take one to two hours per session and may be divided into separate appointments. Regular dental cleanings every six months help prevent plaque buildup, maintain healthy gums, and support long-term oral health. The exact duration depends on your individual dental needs.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 641-0500

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/15/2026

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Teeth Whitened?
The cost of teeth whitening depends on the treatment method, the severity of tooth discoloration, and the dental provider. Professional in-office teeth whitening typically costs between $300 and $1,000 or more, depending on the technology and treatment plan. This option provides noticeable results in a single visit for many patients. Dentist-supervised take-home whitening kits generally cost $100 to $400 and allow you to whiten your teeth gradually using custom-fitted trays.

Over-the-counter whitening strips, toothpaste, and gels are more affordable, often ranging from $10 to $100, but results may be less dramatic. Factors such as the type of whitening product, the number of sessions needed, and existing dental concerns can influence the total cost. Teeth whitening is generally most effective on stains caused by coffee, tea, to***co, and certain foods.

However, it may not work equally well on all types of discoloration, crowns, or fillings. Some people may also experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. A dental examination can help determine the most suitable whitening method based on your oral health, cosmetic goals, and budget. Comparing available options and understanding the expected results can help you make an informed decision about professional teeth whitening.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 641-0500

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/14/2026

How Is Scaling and Root Planing Done?
Scaling and root planing is a deep dental cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. Unlike a routine dental cleaning, this treatment focuses on the areas around the tooth roots where harmful deposits can accumulate and damage the supporting tissues. The dentist examines your teeth and gums, measures the spaces between your gums and teeth, and checks for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and bone loss. Dental X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of gum disease.

Depending on the severity of gum disease and your comfort level, local anesthesia may be used to numb the treatment area and minimize discomfort during the procedure. The dentist or dental hygienist uses specialized ultrasonic instruments or hand tools to remove plaque, hardened tartar, and bacteria from above and below the gumline. The tooth roots are carefully cleaned and smoothed to remove contaminated deposits and rough areas where bacteria can collect. This helps the gums heal and reattach more closely to the teeth.

Treatment may be completed in one appointment or divided into multiple visits, depending on the condition of your gums. Mild soreness, temporary sensitivity, or slight bleeding may occur afterward. Gentle brushing, daily flossing, and following your dentist's instructions help support recovery.

Scaling and root planing can reduce gum inflammation, control periodontal disease, and help protect the tissues supporting your teeth. Regular dental maintenance is important for preserving the results and preventing further gum problems.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 385-5353

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/13/2026

Does a Root Canal Hurt?
A root canal usually does not hurt as much as many people expect. Modern dental techniques and local anesthesia help keep the procedure comfortable. In fact, a root canal is often performed to relieve the pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth.

During the procedure, your dentist numbs the affected tooth and surrounding area. You may feel pressure or vibrations while the dentist removes the infected pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth, but you should not feel significant pain. If you experience discomfort, let your dentist know so additional anesthesia can be provided.

Some tenderness, mild soreness, or sensitivity when biting is common for a few days after treatment. This can happen because the tissues surrounding the tooth may be inflamed. The discomfort generally improves gradually and can often be managed with appropriate pain medication recommended by your dentist.

Follow your dentist's aftercare instructions, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it has been restored, and take any recommended medication as directed. Maintaining good oral hygiene also supports healing.

Severe or worsening pain, increasing swelling, fever, or symptoms that do not improve should be evaluated by your dentist. These signs may indicate a complication that requires further treatment.

Overall, a root canal is designed to eliminate infection and preserve your natural tooth while relieving pain. With proper anesthesia and aftercare, most patients tolerate the procedure well.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 385-5353

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/12/2026

Does Medicare Cover Dentures?
Medicare coverage for dentures depends on the type of Medicare plan you have. Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental services, including dentures, even when you need them to replace missing teeth or restore your ability to chew comfortably.

Original Medicare, which includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), generally does not pay for dentures, routine dental exams, or most dental procedures. However, it may cover certain dental services that are inextricably linked to covered medical treatment, such as specific services required before certain medical procedures or during treatment for certain medical conditions.

Some Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, offer additional dental benefits that may cover dentures. Coverage varies by plan and may include complete dentures, partial dentures, dental examinations, X-rays, and other services. Plans can have annual benefit limits, copayments, waiting periods, or restrictions on which dentists you can visit.

Review your plan's Evidence of Coverage document to check whether dentures are included. Confirm the coverage amount, frequency limits, approved providers, and any out-of-pocket expenses before starting treatment. You can also contact your plan provider to verify your benefits.

If your plan excludes dentures, you may explore other options, such as Medicaid if you qualify, community dental clinics, dental schools, or payment plans offered by dental practices. Medicaid dental benefits for adults vary by state.

Understanding your Medicare benefits before treatment can help you estimate costs and choose an affordable option for replacing missing teeth.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 385-5353

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/

10/11/2026

What Is a Dental Surgical Extraction?

A dental surgical extraction is a procedure used to remove a tooth that cannot be easily taken out with a simple extraction. It is often necessary when a tooth is broken below the gumline, impacted, severely damaged, or difficult to access. Wisdom teeth are among the most common teeth that require surgical extraction.

During the procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon numbs the area with local anesthesia to minimize pain. An incision may be made in the gum tissue to expose the tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone must be removed, or the tooth may be divided into smaller pieces to allow safe removal. The area may then be closed with stitches.

Surgical extraction is commonly recommended for impacted wisdom teeth, teeth with complicated roots, and teeth damaged by extensive decay or trauma. The complexity of the procedure depends on the tooth's position, root structure, and surrounding bone.

After surgery, mild swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding are common. Following the dentist's aftercare instructions can help promote healing. Patients are generally advised to eat soft foods, avoid smoking, refrain from using straws during the initial healing period, and keep the extraction site clean without disturbing the blood clot.

Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing. While initial discomfort often improves within a few days, complete healing may take several weeks.

A dental surgical extraction helps remove problematic teeth, relieve symptoms, and protect surrounding oral tissues when a simpler extraction is not suitable.

Book your dentist appointment online 24/7 here:
https://bit.ly/ArlingtonDentalBookOnline

Arlington Dental
43 Broadway, Arlington, MA 02474
📞 (781) 385-5353

Google Maps Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/5dBD2Cc2gdd2c4ck6

https://arlingtondentalsmile.com/