FRANKLIN, INDIANA -- On June 19 and 20, 2013, I visited Affordable Dentures, Franklin, Indiana, to receive same-day partials. From the clinic published offerings, I selected what is termed "The Premium Package," at a cost of $1780. The Package consists of a set of full or partial dentures, with the promise of being allowed to return at any time during the first year of wear for repair and adjustments. A final set is then placed in the patient's mouth. The words "at any time" echo throughout the clinic as the patients are being fitted for teeth, and again, as they leave: "You may come back any time you need to." That promise turns out to be a lie, particularly for purchasers of The Package.
Patients are given two prescriptions and are told these have to be filled immediately or surgery will not be done. At the beginning of my visit I completed a medical history revealing a thyroid condition. The medication Dr.** prescribed came with a printed indication of potential death to those with thyroidism. The prescription is given to every patient, no matter their medical condition. This is malpractice.
It is important to inquire about the dentist’s training and experience when investigating the denture procedure. Although many general dentists offer the treatment, prosthodontists receive three years of advanced training in restorative dentistry. As a result they may be a better or more experienced option for you to consider when it comes to dentures or an alternative like implants or bridges. The American College of Prosthodontists offers additional resource information about the training of prosthodontists in the U.S.
There are three main ways to replace missing teeth. The first is with a removable false tooth (or teeth) - called a partial denture. The second is with a fixed bridge. A bridge is usually used when there are fewer teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth. The third way is by the use of dental ‘implants'. This is where an artificial root is placed into the bone of the jaw and a crown or bridge placed on top of this. See our leaflet ‘Tell me about: dental implants'.
Removable partial dentures. Although these don't require grinding down adjacent teeth, they are not nearly as stable or comfortable as dental implants and can affect speech and eating. This type of restoration is less expensive but doesn’t look as natural or function as well as an implant-supported crowns. The bone underneath a removable partial denture may deteriorate over time, changing the appearance of your smile and face.
It’s important to take good care of them so they stay fresh and comfortable in your mouth. Adopting a daily cleaning regime is important to keep them looking their best. To help remove tough stains, soak your partial dentures in a denture cleaning solution, such as Poligrip Overnight Whitening Daily Cleanser or Poligrip 3 Minute Daily Cleanser, as indicated by the directions on the pack.
We are very disappointed today. I hate putting our dirty laundry on Facebook but if it can help someone else then it is worth it. A little over 1 yr old Evan started his journey to a beautiful smile at Affordable Dentures in Cedar Rapids. His teeth were bad and made him very self-conscious. We went in and were presented a set of packages, we choose the second least expensive, Economy Plus. In buying this package we had $3800 tied up in teeth. This had to be paid in advance before they would do any work at all. This paid for teeth extraction, a set of temporary teeth to wear while the swelling went completely down (1 yr) and then he would receive his permanent teeth after 1 yr. Everything had to be paid for upfront.
Dr. Athari's dental center has an on-site dental lab that fabricates new dentures and provides repairs and relines, often with same-day service. Being able to provide dentures in a day is a significant advantage, especially for patients who have traveled far distances to visit the practice. The on-site lab also eliminates the need to use outside commercial labs, which helps keep our fees low.
After graduating from the University of Connecticut Dental School in 2014, Dr. Secola underwent a general practice residency before relocating to Dallas. She enjoys providing high-quality dental care to all patients. Dr. Secola's residency training was at the same facility where Dr. Damon and Dr. Blankenship were residents as well. This program is through the VA hospital system and only allows for 2 residents per year.
HOUMA LOUISIANA, LOUISIANA -- I had six teeth left on my top in the front they started chipping. So when a new clinic opened in my town, Affordable Dentures, I was ecstatic thinking okay I can finally get things done since it was in such a convenient location. So I made a loan for 1500.00. And went in to get my teeth extracted an immediate dentures. I was happy every one was so nice. I paid cash and never felt uncomfortable about my dealings. My dentist he seemed nice. But when I left I was not given any follow up appt. He never explained anything to me. His assistant did more than him. I figured he was just busy.
Hormones released during pregnancy softens the cardia muscle ring that keeps food within the stomach. Hydrochloric acid is the acid involved in gastric reflux, also known as morning sickness. This acid, at a pH of 1.5-3.5 coats the enamel on the teeth; at a pH of 6.5 and mainly affect the palatal surfaces of the maxillary teeth, eventually the enamel is softened and easily wears away.
Processing a denture is usually performed using a lost-wax technique whereby the form of the final denture, including the acrylic denture teeth, is invested in stone. This investment is then heated, and when it melts the wax is removed through a spruing channel. The remaining cavity is then either filled by forced injection or pouring in the uncured denture acrylic, which is either a heat cured or cold-cured type. During the processing period, heat cured acrylics—also called permanent denture acrylics—go through a process called polymerization, causing the acrylic materials to bond very tightly and taking several hours to complete. After a curing period, the stone investment is removed, the acrylic is polished, and the denture is complete. The end result is a denture that looks much more natural, is much stronger and more durable than a cold cured temporary denture, resists stains and odors, and will last for many years.
Gum disease is caused by plaque and may result in tooth loss without proper treatment. Symptoms and signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease) include receding gums, bad breath and pocket formation between the teeth and gums. Treatment depends upon the stage of the gum disease, how you responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health.
Been struggling with getting my dentures since June. After waiting weeks for first appointment, came back for second appointment. Was told can't complete services because location was then closing for a week because first doc was fired. Asked me to reschedule at least a week after reopening since they'd need to catch up. So I rearranged my schedule. OK. Came back yesterday, Thursday, and the girl dropped my impression on the floor right in front of me, then told me to come back at 1:00. I asked if needed to redo the impression but she just brushed it off. As soon as I was 10 miles away, I was called back to redo the impression because they needed a better one. OK. So I return and make another impression, and left with pain, bleeding, and swelling. Told to return at 1:30 to get my new teeth. OK.
After a laboratory has constructed the denture out of realistic-looking nylon material, your dentist can easily insert the piece into your mouth. Typically, the dentist won’t need to alter any of your natural teeth. And after the procedure, most patients become accustomed to their replacement very quickly, thanks to the thinness and comfort of the denture.
Denture adhesives, also called denture adherents, are creams, powders, wafers or strips that are used to hold dentures firmly in place. The adhesive also helps form a seal that keeps food particles from sticking between the dentures and gums. Adhesive is applied to clean dentures, which are then positioned in the mouth and held in place for a few seconds, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the numbness wore off I could not open my mouth fully for days. It took a full week before I was out of severe pain. It honestly felt like she had broken my jaw. I decided to tough it out as I have a phobia of dentists. Once the severe pain was over my jaw was sore for the next two months. I'm fairly certain that isn't the norm for routine extractions.
Having a Dallas dentist who understands the special needs of those with tooth loss and the need for synthetic replacement is important. At Dallas Dentures & Implants, we are able to work with patients whether they have recently lost teeth, have an impending tooth loss, or have been wearing prostheses for years. For many people, we offer a solution to oral pain and uncomfortable, extensive procedures. Instead, we will work to create realistic and comfortable replacements that create a beautiful smile. If you are interested in finding out more or want to come in for a consultation, call us today.
Sometimes, a Dallas dentist is not fully capable of dealing with the specialized needs of certain clients. That is where Dallas Dentures & Implants can help. We are a professional and courteous clinic that provides all types of prosthetic and aesthetic dental improvement. We specialize in this sort of work and are able to offer services from doctors who are experts in their field at a reasonable prices.
MCCALLA, ALABAMA -- 5/8/18 I had all my remaining top teeth removed & an immediate denture (ID) put in. First, I was the last surgery of the day. The dentist let all his experienced staff leave & had the receptionist assist him! He had to tell her every little thing to do. She couldn't even work the suction instrument correctly & she finally just quit suctioning my mouth!
Patients can become entirely edentulous (without teeth) for many reasons, the most prevalent being removal due to dental disease typically relating to oral flora control, i.e., periodontal disease and tooth decay. Other reasons include pregnancy, tooth developmental defects caused by severe malnutrition, genetic defects such as dentinogenesis imperfecta, trauma, or drug use.
Extractions were the main cost saver ($30 each) but you have to pay for the dentures first ($500). Don't think they would have accepted me if I only wanted extractions. TOOK 5 MONTHS and 6 or 7 visits to get these "immediate" dentures. Look good out of my mouth but when I smile u see all the bottom teeth and hardly any top ones. LOTS of overbite make biting PB&J sandwich impossible.
Full-mouth restoration is exactly what it sounds like, restoring natural-looking teeth to both arches. Upper and lower teeth are supported by multiple dental implants — usually four implants per arch — spread evenly across the jawlines. Patients can expect to get their old smile back and a much more natural chewing and eating scenario compared to regular traditional dentures.
This Dr Baumgarden smelled like alchohol and was very rude to me as a patient and the way he talked to the assistants was uncalled for. I have spent over 30 years in the customer service business and if I treated customers as he does I would not have a job. I do realize that everyone has a bad day but this is my second time here and he was like this both times!
If dentures are medically necessary, insurance might pay 15%-50% of the costs (up to the plan's annual limit, if there is one). A basic denture starts at about $300-$500 per plate, or $600-$1,000 for a full set of upper and lower teeth. These typically have limited warranties, don't last as long as more expensive models, tend to look artificial and may be adapted from a standard size instead of a customized fit.
It’s time to discover metal-free partial dentures! While there are other metal-free partial dentures out there, called flexibles, they tend to be flimsy and lack support. Ultaire™ AKP is a different option, a high-performance polymer that is designed specifically as a metal replacement for partial dentures — with the strength and durability required to give you a comfortable and functional partial denture. Hear what dentists say about Ultaire™ AKP metal-free partial dentures.
In need of a professional dentist.I live in Northwest Ohio. Had my left leg amputated some years back. Then I came down with mrsa., so now I'm in need of dental help. After the Drs removed my leg then after year, they had come back and take off 2 more inches. I was fitted with a prosthetic and it never fit. Then I spend 2 1/2 years in a nursing home that sucks. I'm afraid of getting ripped off with getting false teeth.If anyone can recommend a dentist that does this kind of work in Northwest Ohio please email me. THANKS IN ADVANCE I just want to smile again.
I had partials made in apri they were awful I was ordered a new top I can not wear the bottoms then hurt to much the top partial is like chewing cardboard I would never consider going back again it cost me 1700.00 dolllars that I am still paying for I am on as and this is reall a burden to pay this every month for something I can not wear. Grace moyer
Partial dentures are a removable appliance that consists of artificial or prosthetic teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic-acrylic base. Partial dentures can be secured more and held in place by a metal framework or tooth-colored attachments. Partial dentures are used for patients who are missing one or more natural teeth, but not all of their teeth. These dentures work with both the upper and lower jaw, remaining secure in either location during use.
My mom got the xxxxxx xxx xxxx denture, a full set, about 4 years ago. They were less than half the price of regular dentures and are the most comfortable she ever wore. they still look great and she can eat most foods. They talk about economy dentures being bad but these are great. They fit better than any of her others and were done in 1 visit. we are thrilled
It was our impression from viewing the video that this technique is very dependent on the dentist's skill in performing the needed steps (more so than with conventional construction, primarily due to time constraints needed to accomplish certain steps, and accomplish them the first time, properly, before the denture materials set). So in that regard, likely the dentist who fabricated your mother's denture is due as much credit as the system itself.
I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was… I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was treated like a queen and like I said before I highly recommend affordable dentures for dentures implants what ever they do they are awesome my smile is awesome I feel awesome I Christopher Atari and his staff from the bottom of my heart thank you thank you thank you and God bless I highly highly recommend affordable dentures sincerely Toni Barajas Read more
After implant-supported dentures are in place, patients should properly care for their teeth and gums. The dentures, gums, and tongue should be brushed twice a day. Patients should also floss daily to remove debris between the teeth; though false teeth won't become damaged by decay, plaque build-up can still cause gum disease and bad breath. Patients with dentures should also schedule dental visits every six months so their dentists can check the fit of the dentures and look for signs of dental problems.
well it's been over a year now. and iam still a very happy smiling!! patient of dr. atari. affordable dentures & implants. i have refferd several people. each person that has gone can't thank aaffordable dentures/implants or dr .atari and the wonderful staff !!!enough. and me too. for recommending , referring ,them. the best and great for your wallet as well..should be 10 stars !and the ladys at the front are also 10 stars! without them what would they do ? we do ???? thank you again. so much for my beautiful beautiful smile and giving me the ability to smile big and beautiful again.. sincerely toni barajas.
PORT SAINT LUCIE, FLORIDA -- I called my heart doctor to see how long I needed to stay off my blood thinner to be able to have a tooth pulled. My heart doctor said that I could not go off meds but could get tooth pulled. I called Affordable Dentures in Port Saint Lucie, FL and spoke to lady on phone and told her my condition which she said that they needed a letter from my heart doctor. I asked what was the fax number and doctor name to have my letter faxed to and she gave me that information. Later this woman called and told me that they had received fax and gave me an appointment for April 13th at 9:30.
A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.
I went to Affordable Dentures 800 Black Horse Pike in Mount Ephraim NJ 08059. I was seen by one of their dental assistant. Everything went well until I got my dentures. They didn't fit right when they first put them in. They said it would be fine. A week later had to go back. Made a adjustment. Told the girl that it still wasn't fitting right. Said it will be fine. Two weeks later had to go back again. Then the fourth and fifth time. Very unhappy with the staff. They were making my dentures worse. I would not recommend this company. Save your money and go to a experience dentist. After a year of living with these dentures that didn't fit I went to real dentist. They were surprise to see how bad the dentures were made.
We are very disappointed today. I hate putting our dirty laundry on Facebook but if it can help someone else then it is worth it. A little over 1 yr old Evan started his journey to a beautiful smile at Affordable Dentures in Cedar Rapids. His teeth were bad and made him very self-conscious. We went in and were presented a set of packages, we choose the second least expensive, Economy Plus. In buying this package we had $3800 tied up in teeth. This had to be paid in advance before they would do any work at all. This paid for teeth extraction, a set of temporary teeth to wear while the swelling went completely down (1 yr) and then he would receive his permanent teeth after 1 yr. Everything had to be paid for upfront.
Implant-supported dentures do not require the use of sticky, messy, foul-tasting dental adhesives. Patients can finally stop buying these products and no longer have to spend time trying to keep their dentures in place. Instead, patients can focus on caring for their dentures in the same manner that they would care for real teeth; patients should brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit the dentist every six months.
A film of saliva typically helps hold dentures in place. Denture adhesives may be used if the salivary glands do not produce a sufficient amount of saliva. Denture adhesives are not, however, a remedy for ill-fitting dentures. A denture that fits poorly (i.e., feels loose or causes discomfort) may need to be relined or replaced as it can contribute to the development of mouth sores.
Making quality dentures is a blend of science and art. First, an accurate impression (mold) is made of the alveolar ridges on the top and bottom of your mouth. The base of the denture is made from this mold in a dental laboratory. Working together, the dentist and lab technician choose from among many different sizes and shapes of prosthetic teeth to re-create a natural-looking smile. When everyone is satisfied with the result, the temporary dentures are made in permanent form.
The denture itself is not very good. Again, I fault this due to a low paid lab worker, who is probably texting while he makes the denture. It clearly did not fit properly, too much in one area, too little in another. I am glad that I have had a partial for years and an upper for years, as I know what can be done to alleviate the pressure points. I had to remove material in several spots on the lower edges of the denture, to keep it from bruising my gums.
Hormones released during pregnancy softens the cardia muscle ring that keeps food within the stomach. Hydrochloric acid is the acid involved in gastric reflux, also known as morning sickness. This acid, at a pH of 1.5-3.5 coats the enamel on the teeth; at a pH of 6.5 and mainly affect the palatal surfaces of the maxillary teeth, eventually the enamel is softened and easily wears away.
If it was possible I would give them an absolute minus 10 Stars. First off I go in the office. The staff that greeted me was polite that I will give them. Had X-rays done. Was waiting to see what the doctor would say. When he came in he had no bedside manner. I was leaning back in a chair and shook his hand and he said he would try to save a couple of teeth whatever. Was talking for a little bit and then walked out of the room. I don't know if it was an assistant I assume was telling me options I had. Then the doctor Vick walked in and I thought he was joking at first. He asked me why I squeeze his hand so hard when I shook it. Mind you the hand I shook with has been broken and operated on before and still has issues.
The front office staff does not greet you or ask how they can help you when you come it they look at you and watch you stand at an empty desk until a patient sitting in the lobby advises the customer where to go. The staff in the back are excellent they keep you informed and will try to assist any way they can. The Dr was great helping me as a patient however the patient does not need to hear or see him reprimand the assistant when they mess up or do something wrong. I don't need to know something is incorrectly done. Now as for as my service I had a horrible experience I arrived on time but because they didnt have my paper work told me I would have to wait an hour and half til the office who had the info open I told them I can go home and get my copy before the office opens. My upper denture was fitted a nice fit but when I returned my upper were crooked and the left side looked like baby teeth ere used then adult teeth on the right side ...and angle is very obvious. The whole process time it took to make it was something that could not be correct the same day because a whole new denture need to be made. In the meantime I can wear the crooked one until my next appointment woke up this morning my more is so sore from eating and the rubbing of the new denture on my gum line A very unpleasant experience
Hypochlorite cleansers have a disinfectant action and they remove non-viable organisms and other deposits from the surface, but they are not very good at eliminating calculus from the denture surface. Immersing dentures in a hypochlorite solution for more than 6 hours occasionally will eliminate plaque and heavy staining of the denture. Furthermore, as microbial invasion is prevented, the deterioration of the soft lining material does not occur.[32] Although, corrosion of cobalt chromium has occurred when hypochlorite cleansers have been used and they may also result in the fading of the acrylic and silicone lining, but the softness or elastically of the linings are not greatly changed.[35]
Periodontitis is defined as an inflammatory lesion mediated by hot-parasite interaction that results in the loss of connective tissue fibre attachment to the root surface and ultimately to the alveolar bone. It is the loss of connective tissue to the root surface that leads to teeth falling out. The hormones associated with pregnancy increases the risk of Gingivitis and vomiting.
This Dr Baumgarden smelled like alchohol and was very rude to me as a patient and the way he talked to the assistants was uncalled for. I have spent over 30 years in the customer service business and if I treated customers as he does I would not have a job. I do realize that everyone has a bad day but this is my second time here and he was like this both times!
When you want to replace missing or damaged teeth in Mesquite, TX, learn more about dentures and implants with Affordable Dentures & Implants®. It’s possible to improve your smile and even your life with comfortable and attractive treatment options. Here at our practice, we can provide you with affordable, custom-made dentures or implant solutions that function and feel like your natural teeth.
I am missing almost all of my upper teeth and am considering full dentures. What are the costs for extraction and for the dentures? Also, what is the timeframe for ordering and wearing the new dentures after extraction?Answer: The fee for removing your remaining teeth varies upon the complexity of the procedure required to remove your teeth as well as your geographic location. Some dental schools, including hospital-based programs, may offer reduced fees if you use a resident (a dentist in training for additional skills) or a dental student to perform the procedure (under the supervision of licensed dentists). The timing of the placement of the dentures can vary widely. Dentures may be made prior to the removal of the remaining teeth and may be inserted the day the teeth are extracted, or the teeth may be removed and healing allowed to take place before the dentures are delivered several weeks or even months later. Most patients want to have dentures sooner rather than later, but dentures placed soon after or immediately after teeth have been extracted may need to be adjusted or replaced after the healing process is finished.Response provided by the American College of Prosthodontists. Back to top
You always have a choice when it comes to your health. If you are missing teeth and wondering what your options are, talk to your dentist about Ultaire™ AKP removable partial dentures. Metal partials can be uncomfortable and can wreak havoc on the oral environment. Plus, who wants metal ruining their smile? The shiny metal clasps can be distracting and have been known to cause damage to remaining teeth, and possibly further tooth loss. Now you have another option: Ultaire™ AKP.
Went in today for some x-rays and a cleaning and Dr Athari & the staff were great! Dr Athari did a great job & I left feeling my teeth were cleaner & healthier! Also, glad that he motivated me to start flossing more so I can maintain my healthy teeth and gums! I knew that flossing was important but did you know that increased your life by 6 years!!It helped that he was very outgoing and had a great personality, I will definitely be back and I will be referring people to come here! Very honest, very fast and efficient!!
I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was… I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was treated like a queen and like I said before I highly recommend affordable dentures for dentures implants what ever they do they are awesome my smile is awesome I feel awesome I Christopher Atari and his staff from the bottom of my heart thank you thank you thank you and God bless I highly highly recommend affordable dentures sincerely Toni Barajas Read more
It’s important to take good care of them so they stay fresh and comfortable in your mouth. Adopting a daily cleaning regime is important to keep them looking their best. To help remove tough stains, soak your partial dentures in a denture cleaning solution, such as Poligrip Overnight Whitening Daily Cleanser or Poligrip 3 Minute Daily Cleanser, as indicated by the directions on the pack.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation report, Oral Health in the US: Key Facts, 15% of the US population lives in dental Health Professional Shortage Areas. Forty percent of Americans have no dental insurance, according to US News and World Report, even though enrollment in a dental plan is the primary indicator of a patient’s ability (and likelihood) to get proper dental care.
However, like anything, there is a downside. Implant dentures tend to be fairly expensive. A cost of $15,000 to $30,000 for complete upper and lower implant dentures is not uncommon. Most dental insurance plans do not cover the total cost of implant dentures. Possible rejection of the implanted abutment can happen. If there is not enough bone, bone grafting may be required. Minimally invasive surgery may also be required. Treatment time can vary from three to six months.
This plan is NOT insurance. This is not a qualified health plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This plan does not meet the minimum creditable coverage requirements under M.G.L. c. 111M and 956 CMR 5.00. This is not a Medicare prescription drug plan. The plan provides discounts at participating providers for services. The plan does not make payments directly to providers. The plan member is obligated to pay for all services but will receive a discount from participating providers. The range of discounts will vary depending on the type of provider and services. The licensed Discount Plan Organization is Coverdell & Company, Inc., at 8770 W. Bryn Mawr, Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60631, 1-800-240-2973. Plan not available in Alaska, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington. To view a listing of participating providers visit Find a Provider. You have the right to cancel this plan within 30 days after the effective date for a full refund. Such refund will be issued within 30 days of request.
They deserve ten stars. Took my elderly blind neighbor to Bright Now dental and waited over an hour and a half past our appt time. Was so angry we walked out and didn't know what to do so we found Dental Works in the same mall. We had no appt but they fit us right in. They were wonderful. Had to have 12 teeth pulled and now onto dentures. All the women that work there are very friendly and caring. Dr Chi was great and very gentle on a poor lady who was scared to death. Would highly recommend them and their price was the best too!!!!! More
I told him that if I hurt someone's feelings that I did not intend for that to be and while I was telling him that, he told me that I was not listening to him and he did not have to service me. I tried to tell him that I was saying sorry. When everyone walked away but one of the receptionist, that person told me that she hated working there because the women there were very mean.
Most patients need a few weeks to get used to the feel and use of their new dentures. Until the muscles of the cheeks and tongue adjust to the new dentures and learn to keep them in place, they may feel a little loose. It will also take time before you are comfortable putting your dentures in place and removing them. Since the mouth increases the amount of saliva produced in reaction to the new dentures, patients should expect to have mild sores and irritations in their mouth.
"Terrel Myers is without doubt one of the best dentists - anywhere! He is friendly and compassionate but most of all he is extremely knowledgeable and experienced as a dentist. He doesn't automatically take the easiest (sometimes more convenient and expensive route) that others tend to do (in my experience elsewhere) but instead - if at all possible, will give you suggestions and options on remedying a problem. This guy knows what he's doing and does it well. I highly recommend him for anything from the simplest problem to the most complex."
Over a period of time, your denture will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear. Rebasing means making a new base while keeping the existing denture teeth. Also, as you age, your mouth naturally changes. These changes cause your dentures to loosen, making chewing difficult and irritating your gums. At a minimum, you should see your dentist annually for a checkup.