Many people have questions about dental care. To help you understand your oral health and dental treatments, our dentist and team have provided this page of answers to frequently asked questions. Please feel free to call Parkway Dental at 919-380-9622 if you have further questions or to make your appointment with Dr. Stephen Coker in Cary, North Carolina.

How safe are dental X-rays?

There is very little risk in dental X-rays. We are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which our patients are exposed. Lead aprons, thyroid collar and digital sensors are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation. Additionally, Digital X-rays, are produced with 80-90% less radiation than traditional film radiography, and are completely safe for use

How can parents help prevent tooth decay?

Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then we can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.

Are you taking new patients?

YES. Because our patients love us, they often refer their friends and family! They want to see their friends and family receive the same level of care. We are proud of the confidence our patients have placed in us.

What kind of toothpaste is best?

The most important part of brushing your teeth is the technique used. Toothpaste is important for what it supplies: fluoride and tartar control. Be careful of the whitening brands because some are abrasive and they can remove enamel from teeth.

Electric or manual toothbrush?

After testing numerous brushes, we have concluded that electric, if used, is the best. We usually recommend electric toothbrushes because of their design, ease of use, and availability. There are numerous models on the market that work well. If you have a question about a specific brand, please ask us.

What happens at my first visit?

In order to treat each and every patient, as an individual with unique dental needs it is vital to completely assess their current oral health. We perform an oral cancer screening; we look at muscles and joints that open and close the mouth. We will look at your teeth, and your gums and bone that hold the teeth (the periodontium). We then take photos and x-rays when necessary. With this information, we can determine the type of treatment that is right for you.

How can I make my teeth whiter?

There are several methods to make teeth whiter. The best whitening technique has been dentist-prescribed whitening systems; they change the color of teeth with minimal (if any) side effects. Veneers are an option for more difficult cases. There are many other ways to improve the appearance of your smile. If you are interested in a free cosmetic consultation to assess your cosmetic needs please let us know.

What do you offer for the nervous, anxious patients?

We realize that even though dental care has come a long way in terms of patient comfort, there are still those with concerns and fears. Dental care should not be an unpleasant experience so we provide a full array of options for those patients. We offer several techniques to help you relax so please ask us about the different methods we offer.