What Good Preventive Care Actually Looks Like
Most dental problems don’t appear overnight. They build slowly, which is exactly why preventive care is worth taking seriously. We recommend scheduling checkups every six months. During each visit, we remove hardened plaque that brushing can’t reach, screen for cavities and gum disease, and take X-rays when needed to catch what isn’t visible to the naked eye.
Between visits, a solid home routine carries most of the weight:
- Brush twice daily for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush angled toward the gumline.
- Floss once a day, hugging each tooth and reaching just below the gumline.
- Rinse with water after sugary snacks.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste.
These habits remove plaque consistently and reduce your risk of needing more involved treatment down the road.
Our Dentist in Lenexa Team
Our providers bring a range of experience and specialties to the practice. Dr. Alicia Ates, Dr. Richard Miller, and Dr. Michael Sullivan each contribute to the broad scope of care we offer, so patients have consistent access to knowledgeable, attentive treatment across visits. Dr. Ates is the only provider in our office who performs Invisalign and Botox services.
You can read more about our team and approach on our website to get a better sense of who you’ll be working with before your first visit.
What We Treat and Offer
We offer a broad range of general dentistry services, from routine cleanings and fillings to more specific treatment when something comes up. If a tooth has been causing persistent pain, endodontic therapy may be recommended to address the source of the problem rather than mask it. For patients with gum-related concerns, we also provide treatment for periodontal disease to help restore the health of the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.
On the cosmetic side, cosmetic dentistry options include professional whitening and other treatments to improve the appearance of your smile. We use a professional whitening system without a light, so there’s no need to sit under a lamp. If you receive a take-home kit, we’ll walk you through the wear schedule to help you get steady results while minimizing sensitivity.
For patients interested in Invisalign, aligners should be worn at least 22 hours a day and removed only for eating and cleaning. For Botox, we recommend avoiding rubbing the treated area for 24 hours and skipping strenuous exercise for the rest of the day. Both services are performed exclusively by Dr. Ates.
After Treatment: What to Expect
Recovery after common procedures is usually straightforward, but a few small steps help things go smoothly.
After a filling, some mild sensitivity is normal for a few days. Avoid very hot or cold foods until it fades. If you’ve had a crown or bridge placed, stick to softer foods on that side for a few days and wear a nightguard if we’ve recommended one to protect the restoration from grinding.
Call us if you notice any of the following after a procedure:
- Pain that worsens or doesn’t improve after a few days
- Heavy bleeding that won’t slow down
- Fever or signs of spreading infection
- A restoration that feels loose or has come out
We’ll go over your symptoms and help you figure out the right next step.
Who We See and Where We’re Located
Our practice is easy to find and serves patients across Lenexa and the surrounding area. We also regularly see patients from Shawnee who are looking for a dependable dentist in Shawnee with convenient scheduling and straightforward communication. If you’re nearby, we’d be glad to have you in.
Schedule Your Visit
Consistent dental care is one of the more straightforward investments you can make in your overall health. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or you have something specific you’d like us to look at, we’re here to help. Contact us to book your appointment at Ates Dental Studio, and let’s make sure your next visit is one you actually look forward to.
