FAQ

General Dentistry

Do you offer fluoride treatments?

Yes. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent decay. It's especially helpful for children and patients prone to cavities.

What if I don’t have insurance?

We accept CareCredit financing and other flexible payment options to help you manage the cost of care comfortably.

Can you help with dental anxiety?

Absolutely. We offer a relaxed environment, sedation options when needed, and a supportive team that will take the time to explain everything.

What insurance plans do you accept?

We work with most major dental insurance providers and will help you verify your benefits before your visit.

Do you handle dental emergencies?

Yes. We offer same-day appointments for urgent needs like toothaches, broken teeth, and infections.

What kind of fillings do you use?

We use tooth-colored composite resin, which is strong, safe, and blends naturally with your surrounding teeth.

What does a general dental exam include?

Your visit typically includes a comprehensive exam, professional cleaning, digital x-rays, and a review of your dental history.

How often should I visit the dentist for a checkup?

Most patients benefit from visits every six months, though some may need more frequent care depending on their oral health needs.

Do you treat children and families?

Yes. We welcome patients ages 4 and up and provide family-friendly care designed to make kids and adults feel at ease.

Are dental x-rays safe?

Yes. We use low-radiation digital x-rays and CBCT imaging to ensure clear diagnostics with minimal exposure.

Dental Checkups

Can I book appointments for my whole family at once?

Absolutely. We offer family scheduling to make routine care easier for busy households.

What’s included in a dental checkup at Fowler Dental?

Each visit includes a full exam, digital X-rays, an oral cancer screening, and a professional cleaning.

How long does a dental checkup take?

Most checkups last about an hour. If you’re a new patient or have specific concerns, we may take a little more time to ensure thorough care.

What makes Fowler Dental different from other dentists in Gallatin?

We’re a locally owned, husband-and-wife team offering modern care with advanced technology, minimal referrals, and a patient-first approach in a comfortable, welcoming setting.

What if I have dental anxiety?

We provide calming amenities, a supportive atmosphere, and optional sedation for patients who need extra comfort.

Do you offer checkups for children?

Yes, we welcome patients ages 4 and up and offer family-friendly scheduling for your convenience.

Will I see the same dentist at every visit?

Yes. Drs. Drew and Sydney Fowler are the sole providers and work closely together to offer consistent, personalized care.

How often should I schedule a dental checkup?

We recommend visiting every six months. Some patients with specific concerns may need more frequent visits.

What insurance plans do you accept?

We work with most major dental insurance providers and will help you verify your benefits before your visit.

Invisalign

What happens after I finish Invisalign?

You’ll receive a custom retainer to keep your new smile aligned. We’ll recommend how often to wear it to maintain results.

How often should I wear my aligners?

Wear your aligners 20–22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking (except water), and brushing.

How often do I need check-ins?

We typically schedule visits every 6–8 weeks to monitor progress and provide your next set of aligners.

How much does Invisalign cost?

Pricing varies based on your treatment needs. We offer flexible financing and accept most insurance plans to make Invisalign affordable.

Will Invisalign affect my speech?

There may be a short adjustment period, but most patients speak normally within a few days of starting treatment.

How do I clean my Invisalign trays?

Use lukewarm water and mild soap, or Invisalign cleaning crystals, to keep your aligners fresh and clear.

Can I eat with Invisalign?

Yes. Aligners should be removed during meals, so you can enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions.

Do you accept insurance for Invisalign?

Yes. Many dental plans offer orthodontic coverage, and we’ll help you verify your benefits and estimate costs.

Is Invisalign painful?

You may feel slight pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, but most patients experience minimal discomfort.

How long does Invisalign treatment take?

Most patients complete treatment within 12–18 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Dental Implants

Will I need a bone graft?

Not always. We’ll evaluate your jawbone during your consultation to determine if grafting is necessary.

Do dental implants require special maintenance?

No. Brush and floss like normal, and keep up with routine dental visits.

Can implants be done in one day?

Some patients qualify for same-day placement with temporary teeth. We’ll discuss this option during your consultation.

What is the success rate for implants?

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by experienced professionals.

Are dental implants covered by insurance?

Some plans offer partial coverage. Our team will verify your benefits and help you explore payment and financing options.

What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?

Bone loss, shifting teeth, and bite changes can occur. Implants help preserve bone and maintain alignment.

Can I get an implant immediately after a tooth extraction?

Yes, in many cases. We offer same-day implant placement when conditions are appropriate.

How long does it take to complete the dental implant process?

Typically 3–6 months, depending on healing time and whether bone grafting is needed.

Are dental implants painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. We use local anesthesia and offer sedation options for a calm, pain-free procedure.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. The crown or restoration may need replacement after 10–15 years due to wear.

Cosmetic Dentistry

How do I maintain cosmetic results?

Practice daily brushing and flossing, avoid staining foods and drinks, and come in for regular cleanings to protect your results.

Can I combine multiple cosmetic treatments?

Absolutely. Many patients opt for a smile makeover that includes veneers, whitening, or alignment to achieve a full transformation.

What’s the difference between over-the-counter and professional whitening?

Professional whitening is stronger, safer, and tailored to your teeth. It provides faster, more even results without damaging enamel.

Will cosmetic dentistry affect my bite or function?

If needed, we’ll coordinate with restorative or orthodontic treatment to improve both function and appearance for a balanced, healthy bite.

Can I get cosmetic treatment if I have existing dental issues?

Yes, but we’ll address any active dental problems—like decay or gum disease—first to ensure your cosmetic results are long-lasting.

Is cosmetic dentistry painful?

Most treatments are non-invasive or minimally invasive. We also offer comfort options and gentle techniques to ensure a low-stress experience.

How long do veneers or bonding last?

Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years or longer with good care. Composite bonding may last 5–7 years and can be easily repaired if needed.

How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?

Costs vary depending on your treatment plan. We offer transparent estimates, flexible financing through CareCredit, and help you understand what’s covered by insurance.

Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dental work?

Anyone who wants to enhance the color, shape, alignment, or overall appearance of their teeth may benefit from cosmetic treatment.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile, often using treatments like whitening, veneers, bonding, or a full smile makeover.

Veneers

How do I care for veneers?

Brush and floss daily, avoid abrasive products, and maintain regular cleanings and exams. We’ll provide specific care tips at your appointment.

What if I’m not a good candidate for veneers?

We’ll explore alternative options such as bonding, Invisalign, or whitening, depending on your needs.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Typically not, as they are elective. However, we offer financing options to make treatment more accessible.

Is getting veneers painful?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We use local anesthetic and can offer sedation if needed.

Can I eat normally with veneers?

Yes, though we recommend avoiding extremely hard foods and not biting directly into hard items like ice or hard candy.

How many veneers will I need?

It depends on your smile goals. Some patients only need 2–4 veneers, while others may benefit from 6–10 for full symmetry.

Do veneers stain like natural teeth?

No. Porcelain is highly resistant to stains from coffee, wine, and other dark beverages.

Will my veneers look fake?

Not at all. Our veneers are custom-designed for each patient to blend naturally with your existing teeth and facial features.

Are porcelain veneers permanent?

Yes. Veneers are considered permanent because a small amount of enamel is removed for placement.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With proper care, veneers typically last 10–15 years or longer. Regular checkups and good oral hygiene help extend their lifespan.

Teeth Whitening

What’s the difference between professional and store-bought whitening?

Professional whitening is stronger, safer, and more effective. Plus, it’s tailored to your needs with predictable results.

Is whitening worth the investment?

If you're looking for fast, reliable, and longer-lasting results, professional whitening offers clear advantages over DIY options.

Do you offer whitening for sensitive teeth?

Yes. We can adjust the concentration or recommend take-home options for more gradual whitening with less sensitivity.

What foods should I avoid after whitening?

We’ll ask you to avoid dark or acidic foods like coffee, red wine, and berries for 24–48 hours to protect your results.

Should I get a cleaning before whitening?

Yes. A cleaning removes plaque and buildup, which helps the whitening gel contact your enamel more evenly.

Can I whiten my teeth if I’ve had fillings or crowns?

Whitening only affects natural teeth. We’ll review your dental work and discuss how to achieve an even overall result.

Will my teeth feel sensitive afterward?

Some patients notice temporary sensitivity, but we use methods that minimize discomfort. We’ll also recommend post-treatment care to help.

Is whitening safe for enamel?

Yes. When applied correctly and supervised by a dentist, whitening gel is safe and non-damaging to healthy enamel.

How long will my results last?

Most patients enjoy their results for 6–12 months. Good oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods can extend the effects.

How long does professional whitening take?

In-office whitening takes about 60–90 minutes. Results are immediate. Take-home options usually take 1–2 weeks.

What’s the difference between over-the-counter and professional whitening?

Professional whitening is stronger, safer, and tailored to your teeth. It provides faster, more even results without damaging enamel.

Emergency Dentistry

Can you do root canals or extractions in the office?

Yes. We perform root canals on all teeth and most extractions in-house—so you won’t need to be referred out.

Do you offer after-hours emergency care?

Call our office number and follow the voicemail instructions for after-hours care guidance. We’ll schedule the earliest possible visit.

What payment options do you offer for emergencies?

We accept most insurance plans, credit cards, and offer CareCredit for flexible financing.

Will the visit be painful?

No. We use modern anesthesia and techniques to keep you comfortable throughout your visit.

What should I do if I break a tooth?

Rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress, save any tooth fragments, and call us immediately for an emergency appointment.

What if my crown or filling falls out?

Avoid chewing on the side of the affected tooth. Call us right away so we can repair or replace the restoration.

Can you treat a dental abscess?

Yes. We treat abscesses with proper drainage, antibiotics when needed, and restorative care to remove the infection source.

Is the $59 emergency exam covered by insurance?

If you have dental insurance, it may cover part or all of the visit. We’ll apply your benefits and discuss out-of-pocket costs.

What qualifies as a dental emergency?

Any situation causing severe pain, swelling, trauma, or risk of tooth loss should be treated as an emergency.

How soon can I be seen for a dental emergency?

We offer same-day emergency appointments during regular business hours. Call early in the day for the fastest availability.

Do you handle dental emergencies?

Yes. We offer same-day appointments for urgent needs like toothaches, broken teeth, and infections.

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