204 McFarland Circle North, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406
Call Today: 205.462.3745

Dental Questions

Why do I need dental x-rays?

Every tooth has 5 surfaces – front, back, top and 2 sides in-between. Only 3 of them are accessible to the human eye! Dr. Whitaker uses dental x-rays to help him see between the teeth, and, under the gum line to look for signs of decay, gum disease, infection, abscesses, cysts or tumors and to monitor orthodontic development and third molars in children and teens. The American Dental Association® recommends diagnostic x-rays periodically for children and adults to support a thorough dental health assessment.

Our office is equipped with digital dental x-rays. Using special radiographic technology, we can acquire close up pictures of the teeth and jaw bone in seconds, using less radiation than traditional film exposure. Dr. Whitaker and our dental hygienists can share these images with you on a computer screen to present their findings and recommendations for your oral health.

Cosmetic Dentist in Tuscaloosa

Are baby teeth important to my child?

In short, yes! Children develop their first set of teeth (deciduous teeth) beginning at 6-8 months of age through age 11-12. These primary teeth hold the space for the permanent tooth and support the jaw and facial muscles during the developmental stages of the child’s growth. They also allow the child to speak and chew normally while the permanent teeth fully develop.

Permanent teeth begin to erupt around age 6, causing the baby teeth to become loose and fall out as they are replaced. Premature loss of baby teeth can lead to problems with permanent teeth, including tooth misalignment and tooth decay caused by destructive bacteria in the mouth.

It is important to take good care of baby teeth up to the time they are lost, so they can serve their important function. We recommend that parents help their children brush their teeth until they develop adequate manual dexterity to do a good job. Try making the experience special by playing a fun song or a video and having the child brush their teeth first, with you following after (“now Mommy/Daddy”). A positive outlook on dental health will help your child develop a lifetime of good habits.

I am very fearful about going to the dentist. Is there anything I can do to feel more at ease?

Dental fear is a common challenge for many patients. It can be associated with previous bad experiences at the dentist, but more often, it is a fear of the ‘unknown’ aspects of dental procedures that can sometimes cause patients to be afraid.

We know that this is a real (vs. imagined) problem for a dental patient; the body’s physiological response to fear is ‘fight or flight’ – the reason fearful patients often avoid the dentist altogether. Of course, logic tells us that this is not a good plan, but fear can be a very powerful thing!

We recommend that patients who experience dental anxiety begin with a conversation with Dr. Whitaker. By sharing your fears and concerns, Dr. Whitaker can help you with a plan to get the dental care you need, in complete comfort. A big first step to alleviating your fear is getting to know your dentist and developing a trusting relationship. We can then walk you through the steps of your care at your pace, with no surprises. A comfortable patient is a happy patient!

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    Whitaker Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is the best experience I have had at the dentist. Leigh was my hygienist and did an exceptional job! I love how they all personally get to know you and communicate with you. It is a warm atmosphere and an excellent up-and-coming dentist in Dr. Whitaker!

    John David Smelser

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    I recently had an appointment with Dr. Brett Whitaker and must say that I was quite impressed. His office is beautiful and is set up with the latest dental equipment. My hygienist did a great job. I highly recommend Dr. Whitaker. If you are looking for a dentist give Him a call.

    Cindy Stewart

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    I absolutely love my dentist! The staff is amazing. He is very professional. I love the atmosphere. I have recommended them several times because they are good. I trust his opinion concerning my dental needs.

    Twanda Pugh

    Our Location

    204 McFarland Circle North
    Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406

    Call: (205) 462-3745

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    Monday
    8 am - 5 pm
    Tuesday
    8 am - 5 pm
    Wednesday
    8 am - 5 pm
    Thursday
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    © 2023 Whitaker Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, LLC – Developed by Riveting Media ®      Whitaker Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, LLC complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. No representation is made that the quality of the dental services to be performed is greater than the quality of dental services performed by other dentists.</font color>