Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Dr. Gregory Kivett is a dentist who does dental implants in Joplin, MO to replace missing teeth in adults. Dental implants are a modern technological achievement in the dental field. If you have lost a tooth or have several missing teeth, talk with Dr. Kivett about the benefits of implants and find out how they work. Here is a closer look at how dental implants can help to restore your smile and improve your overall oral health.

Components of the Dental Implant

Dental implants are comprised of two parts, a titanium screw that is placed right into the gums and fuses with the jawbone, and a supporting piece called an abutment that connects the screw with the crown, bridge or denture.

Dr. Kivett places dental implants either on the bone or right into the bone. If he decides to place the implant in the bone, it is an endosteal procedure. This procedure is well suited for patients who are switching from dentures and dental bridges. If implants are placed on the bone just above the jaw bone, it is called the subperiosteal procedure. This implant can be a good match for patients with regressing bone heights. Patients who undergo this procedure cannot wear removable dentures.

Dental Implant Procedure for Missing Teeth in Adults

Your dental implant procedure is typically broken up into multiple sessions. During the first session, damaged teeth will be removed and Dr. Kivett will prepare your jaw bone for surgery. Any bone grafts needed will also be performed during this stage. Once the jaw bone heals, Dr. Kivett will surgically place the dental implants into your jaw. A healing cap will be installed and your dental implant screw will be given time to fuse with your jaw. Healing time for a dental implants varies depending on the person and what the implant is for. After the dental implant is fused to the jaw, we will be ready to put on the abutment and “load” the implant with a crown, bridge, or denture.

After the Procedure

After getting dental implants it is important that you come in for regular dental implant maintenance. This will make sure that your dental implants stay clean. If you implant does not stay clean, you have the risk of an infection that may cause you to lose the dental implant. With regular maintenance your implant should last a lifetime.  

Adults with missing teeth can benefit from dental implants as a tooth replacement option, and may want to know about the differences between dentures and dental implants. Dr. Kivett often recommends dental implants over dentures because implants have far fewer complications than dentures, and also function just like your normal teeth. Many patients with removable dentures end up switching to dental implants to eliminate embarrassing moments, such as slipping or clicking, which are quite common with dentures. Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option that have the added benefit of preserving aesthetics while preventing bone loss. 

 

Dentures vs. Dental Implants: The Facts

Here are some of the key differences between dentures and dental implants: 

Dental Implants are:
 

• Made of titanium, a compound that is naturally compatible with the body - This allows for easy fusion of the implant to the jaw bone. 
• Stable - The implant base is designed to mimic the root of the tooth within the jaw bone and gum. This allows for a more secure fit and ensures that the implants function just like natural teeth.

 

• Made of artificial materials that may cause gum irritation.
• Removable dentures can slip and become uncomfortable.

Our team has advanced training in dental implants and the skill to perform the surgical implantation of the titanium post and the restoration of the crown that replaces the missing tooth. This means that the entire process, from start to finish, is performed by a dentist you trust in a comfortable and welcoming location.

To start the process, a biocompatible titanium post that functions like a tooth root is implanted into your jaw. After you have healed, you return to our office where we take impressions and measurements to send to the lab that will be creating your crown. Once your crown is ready, you come back to have the crown permanently attached to the titanium root. Dental implants look and function just like your own natural teeth, which means that nobody will ever know that you have had dental work done.
 

Discussing Costs during Your Dental Implant Consultation

When you come in for your dental implant consultation with Associates of Dental Arts, you will not only receive a customized treatment plan, but also a cost breakdown of the procedures and services that you need. Whether you have a single missing tooth or several missing teeth, our team will determine whether you need any procedures to prepare your jaw and teeth for implants, and if you would be a good candidate for traditional implants, implant supported dentures, or other procedures.

Here are some factors that determine the total cost of dental implants:

Number of Teeth Involved

If you need more than one dental implant, the cost of treatment will increase, as we will need to use more materials and spend additional time treating you.

Bone Loss

If you have experienced extensive bone loss, or there is not enough bone available to support an implant, we may need to perform bone grafting prior to your dental implant procedure. This will allow us to build up the bone in order to support a dental implant. This additional procedure can increase the total cost of treatment.

Dental veneers are a permanent solution to a variety of cosmetic dental concerns. If you aren't happy with the way your teeth look because of extensive staining, chips, or ridges in the enamel, or if you have gaps between your teeth or they are too small, please call for an examination with Associates of Dental Arts to find out if dental veneers are the right choice for you.

If you grind or clench your teeth, or if you have decay and gum disease, dental veneers may not be the best option. Once these concerns are treated however, you may become a good candidate for dental veneers.
 

Your First Visit

Going to a new dentist can be stressful. At Associates of Dental Arts, we strive to provide stress free dentistry. When you choose to visit us, you can be sure that you will be treated with respect and compassion while receiving the best dental care possible.

Our Passions:

• Patient Comfort: We are here to make you as comfortable as possible by providing a relaxing atmosphere with amenities such as massaging treatment chairs.
• Compassion: Too many dentists focus on diagnosing and treating without acknowledging the patient’s feelings and anxieties. We care about your well-being and take time to listen to your questions and concerns.
• Patient Education: We believe in getting to know you personally and taking the time to explain the treatment we recommend and why we recommend it.
• Convenient Access to Care: It can take time to become comfortable with a dentist.  When you are referred out to a new dentist you have to deal with the anxiety all over again. Since our team has such a passion for practicing dentistry and continuing their education, we rarely have to refer our patients out of our office.
• Top Quality Results: We have a building built for dentistry with the latest technology, we use high quality products, and we stand behind our work. We strive to be the best by doing the best for you.
• Patient Safety: We take your safety very seriously. Our building has a water filtration system that we regularly check to ensure all water we use is pure. We follow the latest in infection control standards and regularly train our team to ensure compliance. Also, our surgery suites double as a tornado shelter.

What to Expect:

When you step into our office, our friendly receptionist will greet you and confirm that we have all the information we need for your appointment. You will then have a moment to sit in one of our comfortable waiting room chairs and enjoy a complimentary water.  Don't forget to try out the new monthly flavor of lip balm located at the front counter too! You may notice that our office does not have that typical cramped doctor office feel. We strive to provide you with a relaxing atmosphere and between the beautiful wall of windows, smart décor, high ceiling, elegant hanging lights and the sound of our fountain, you might think you are in a health spa instead of a dentist office.

After a moment or two, you will be taken back to visit with our New Patient Coordinator, Sonya. She will help guide you as we take all the necessary x-rays and do a complete examination of your teeth and mouth. This includes checking for oral cancer, gum disease and cavities. If you are due for a dental cleaning, she will also clean your teeth. Sonya will then take the time to talk with you about your oral health and about any issues she has identified.

After Sonya is done, Dr. Kivett will review your x-rays and do his own visual exam. He will then explain to you any issues we have identified and what he recommends for treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, Dr. Kivett loves talking about dentistry.

When you are done and all of your questioned have been answered, you will meet with one of our wonderful Scheduling Coordinators. He or she will help go over the cost of your treatment plan and your financing options. After answering all of your questions, we will help you schedule your next appointment. When you are all done, we will send you off with a smile.

Contact us today and make an appointment. We love to see you smile!

If you crack your tooth or have another dental emergency, please call our office right away. We will do everything possible to get you in quickly so we can relieve your pain, treat your problem, and create a plan that will help prevent future dental emergencies.

More adults than ever are looking into orthodontic treatment for crooked and misaligned teeth. The team at Associates of Dental Arts is skilled in the use of Invisalign, which can give you a beautiful, healthy smile while allowing you to maintain a mature and professional appearance. To find out if this option is right for you, please call our office to schedule a consultation.

The presence of loose teeth or teeth that appear to be shifting can be a warning sign of a much bigger oral health issue. If your teeth are becoming loose or seem to be moving, schedule an appointment with Associates of Dental Arts as soon as possible. Our team will check your teeth and gums for gum disease and any other oral health problems that might be causing loose teeth and gum recession.

Causes of Loose Teeth

Some people have loose teeth because of an injury or trauma to the mouth, but others might experience loose teeth as an outcome of periodontal disease. When you are in the advanced stages of gum disease, bacteria start to destroy the bone and gum tissue around the teeth. There may also be loss of attachment between the gums and the teeth. As the supportive structures break down, your teeth can start to shift, become loose, and eventually fall out.

In some cases, loose teeth can also be a side effect of an underlying health problem that increases the chances of developing periodontal disease. At Associates of Dental Arts, we can determine the cause of your loose teeth and any gum recession issues that may be affecting your oral health.

Signs and Symptoms of Loose Teeth

• Inflammation of the gums
• Gums that bleed
• Pus accumulation around the teeth
• Food particles stuck between the teeth or underneath the gums
• Receding gums

All of these symptoms can also be signs of an active infection in the mouth. Since the early stages of gum disease are reversible, it is important that you get the treatment you need as early as possible.

Associates of Dental Arts offers several treatment options for loose teeth including antibiotic therapy, extractions, deep cleanings, and tooth replacement with dental implants. 

Neglecting to brush and floss your teeth every day can increase your risk of developing oral health problems and symptoms such as bad breath. If you have an infection in your mouth or are in the advanced stages of gum disease, you may notice that bad breath is even more difficult to mask with breath sprays or by brushing your teeth more often. The medical term for bad breath is halitosis. Set up a consultation with Associates of Dental Arts for bad breath treatment and a complete oral health evaluation.

Here are some of the most common causes of bad breath:

Food
Sometimes eating foods with strong odors, such as cheese, garlic, onions, coffee, and spicy foods can cause bad breath. Even though brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash after eating these foods can mask the odor for a few hours, you may still have bad breath until the food passes through your body.

Poor Oral Hygiene
If you are not brushing or flossing your teeth regularly, bacteria can grow between your teeth and around the gums and tongue. Poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath and increase your risk of developing gum disease, one of the main causes of gum recession. Talk with our team to learn more about proper oral hygiene practices.

Lifestyle Habits
Your lifestyle and daily habits may be contributing to chronic bad breath. If you are using tobacco products, you may not only have bad breath but might also experience gum irritation and notice a change in your taste buds.

Gum Disease
Not only can gum disease lead to tooth loss, but it can also cause bad breath. When you have excessive plaque and bacterial buildup around your teeth, the extra toxins in your mouth can eventually irritate the gums and break down your gum tissues and jaw bone. Having an active infection in your mouth can give you bad breath.

Other causes of halitosis include cavities, dry mouth, chronic sinus infections, and acid reflux. The team at Associates of Dental Arts can recommend a treatment plan and provide examples of lifestyle changes to help you get rid of bad breath for good.

Signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum recession, and bad breath must be taken seriously. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Associates of Dental Arts as soon as possible. Our team offers laser treatment options for adults with gum disease and can help you restore your oral health.

Gum Disease

Poor oral hygiene practices, such as skipping your tooth brushing and flossing regimen, can cause bacteria to grow in your mouth. As bacteria grow and thrive, they can cause inflammation of the gums that results in bleeding, redness, and swelling. In fact, bleeding of the gums is one of the first warning signs of gum disease. In its early stages, gum disease can be reversed with early treatment and appropriate home care.

If you ignore the early signs of gum disease, it can develop into periodontitis which is characterized by bone loss and potential tooth loss. While there is no cure for periodontal disease at this time, it can be managed with periodontal therapy, maintenance cleanings at our office, and appropriate home care practices. It is also a good idea for adults with gum disease to undergo periodic screenings and thorough dental exams to detect the presence of the disease, even after treatment.

Medications

Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding gums. If you are taking aspirin, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), birth control pills, blood thinners, or some types of blood pressure medications, you may be at risk for developing bleeding gums. Be sure to tell our team about any medical conditions and medications you are currently taking or have recently taken, especially if your gums are bleeding regularly.

Pregnancy

Increased hormone levels during pregnancy can make the gums bleed easily when flossing, brushing, and even eating. In some cases, the gums might bleed spontaneously. Pregnancy gingivitis often occurs during and right after pregnancy when hormone levels tend to increase. This is why regular dental cleanings and a great home care regimen are even more important during pregnancy. Periodontal disease has been linked to premature delivery and low birth weight babies. 

Traditional Gum Surgery vs. the Gum Surgery Alterative: Understanding the Differences

If your gums start to wear way or pull back from to the roots of your teeth, you may notice your teeth looking longer and becoming more sensitive. Gum recession is one of the symptoms of gum disease but can also be the result of mechanical and functional problems that may need to be addressed. Once the gums have receded, they cannot grow back and without proper treatment, you may end up losing your teeth.

Gum recession occurs very gradually, so many people do not even realize there is a problem until they notice gaps forming between the teeth or when their teeth become very sensitive. If you are concerned about gum recession causes and want to learn more about treatment options, set up a consultation with Associates of Dental Arts as soon as possible.
 

Some of the most common causes of gum recession include:

• Periodontal Disease - An active infection in the mouth can destroy gum tissue and supporting bone structures.

• Genetics - For some people, genetics are to blame for the development of gum disease.

• Tooth Brushing Regimen - Using the wrong brushing technique can wear down your tooth structure and can contribute to gum recession.

• Poor Dental Hygiene - Neglecting to brush and floss your teeth regularly can cause plaque buildup which sets the stage for the development of gum disease.

• Tobacco Product Use - Smoking and chewing tobacco can damage gum tissues and decreases blood supply to the gums. Tobacco use is a secondary cause of periodontal disease.

• Bruxism - If you have a habit of grinding and clenching your teeth, the pressure on the teeth can make your teeth shift and cause gum recession.

• Misalignment - If your teeth are not coming together evenly and your bite is off, you may put more pressure on some parts of the gum and bone tissue which can cause receding gums.

• Body Piercing - Any jewelry in the mouth can irritate the gums and cause gum recession.

After identifying gum recession causes, the team will put together a treatment plan to treat and restore your gums. Procedures may include pocket depth reduction, regeneration, and soft tissue grafts.

Even though brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day can feel like a monotonous task, it is absolutely necessary for preventing gum disease. Many adults with gum disease suffer from bad breath, bleeding gums, and a multitude of other symptoms because of poor oral hygiene. If the early stages of gum disease are left untreated, the gums can become severely infected and may cause tooth loss. An estimated 75 percent of Americans have some form of gum disease, a condition that can not only lead to loose teeth but is also linked to many serious health problems. Associates of Dental Arts can treat adults with gum disease using laser gum surgery in Joplin, MO. First, it may help to understand the three main stages of gum disease.

Stage 1: Gingivitis

This is the earliest stage of gum disease and occurs when plaque builds up around the gum line and causes gum inflammation. If you do not brush and floss your teeth every day, the plaque will build up quickly and trap bacteria around the gum line. The gums will become inflamed and appear very red or swollen. You might notice your gums bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. Fortunately, this stage of gum disease is fairly easy to treat and the effects of gingivitis can still be reversed.
 

Stage 2: Periodontitis

If the early stages of gum disease are left untreated, the condition can develop into periodontitis. The supporting bones and fibers holding your teeth in place have been irreversibly damaged at this stage and you will start to develop spaces or pockets around the teeth. These pockets will trap food, bacteria, and plaque. The gums can start to pull away from the teeth and may even begin to recede. Many people notice small gaps forming between their teeth with this condition. At this stage, adults with gum disease will need immediate treatment.
 

Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis

This is the final stage of periodontitis and occurs when the second stage has been left untreated. When bacteria is allowed to grow and spread, it can destroy the connective tissues and bones supporting the teeth. Any pockets formed in Stage 2 will become deeper and your teeth might start to shift or feel loose. When loose teeth are affecting your bite, you may experience the effects of misalignment and can lose your teeth. More aggressive gum disease treatment is needed at this stage to save the teeth and restore your oral health.
 

Learn more about laser gum surgery in Joplin, MO by setting up your consultation. Associates of Dental Arts use the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®) to treat adults with gum disease and can create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal oral health.

We define periodontal disease as a form of advanced gum disease. If you ignore the early signs of gum disease, such as bad breath or swollen gums, the disease may progress into the advanced stages where hardened tartar around the tooth creates a breeding ground for bacteria and infection.This type of buildup will require special instruments to remove it completely and a laser to eradicate the infection.

We have found that LANAP® is the least painful way to eradicate the infection in the mouth causing gum disease. It is also the easiest and least time consuming gum disease treatment available in the area.

For years, gum surgery has been the only treatment available for moderate to advanced gum disease. Recently, huge strides have been made in the field of laser therapy for treating gum disease. Associates of Dental Arts is trained and skilled in the treatment of gum disease using the PerioLase Laser.

When compared to traditional gum surgery, laser therapy with the PerioLase laser has the following advantages:

• No cutting
• No stitches
• Minimal discomfort
• Treatment is completed faster, within weeks instead of months
• Very little recovery time is necessary
• Safe for most patients, even those on blood-thinning medications

Call our office today to schedule an appointment with our team and find out if laser therapy using the PerioLase laser is right for you.
 

If you are concerned about the health of your gums, and are showing some of the signs and symptoms of gum disease, you need to come to Associates of Dental Arts as soon as possible. Our team can explain options for the treatment of gum disease and create a treatment plan that will help you reach your goals. 

Laser gum surgery offers the benefit of a faster healing time compared with traditional surgery. With LANAP®, there is often no gum recession that occurs once the tissues have healed. In addition, the laser promotes bone regeneration around the teeth which helps to save your healthy teeth.

LANAP®
(Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

Basic Steps of LANAP® Protocol

When the early stages of gum disease are left untreated and progress to the stages of advanced periodontitis, the bacteria that multiply in the mouth can destroy connective tissue and bones supporting your teeth. When periodontal pockets form and progressively deepen, your teeth can become loose and you might even end up losing them. Associates of Dental Arts provides an advanced treatment of gum disease with the Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP®). If gum disease has reached the advanced stages, you will need to seek out aggressive gum disease treatment as soon as possible. 

How LANAP® Works:

Here is a closer look at what you can expect when you go in for undergoing LANAP® treatment for gum disease:

1. Periodontal Pocket Measurement - Our team will use a small ruler to measure the depth of the periodontal pockets and to determine how much gum-to-tooth attachment loss has occurred. 2. Removal of Bacteria - The pulsed laser light from the PerioLase® MVP-7™ will be used to destroy the infection in the mouth and remove bacteria beneath the gum line. Healthy tissue is left untouched, so you will not experience discomfort and can enjoy a fast healing time. 3. Calculus Removal – Tartar (calculus) deposits that have formed under the gum line are removed with an ultrasonic scaler. These deposits cannot be removed with the laser alone, but the laser can help to denature the calculus for easier removal with the ultrasonic scaler. 4. Clotting - The laser is passed over the treated area one more time to remove any remaining bacteria and to stimulate the clotting process. The blood helps to form a sticky seal around the pocket so that new germs cannot enter the area. This creates a sanitary environment and promotes the healing process. 5. Tissue Compression - The tissue recompresses against the root surfaces of the teeth naturally. 6. Bite Adjustment - Our team will adjust your bite and check your teeth to make sure everything is aligned properly and that no extensive trauma has occurred. 

The PerioLase® MVP-7^TM has been cleared by the FDA for gum disease treatment and is backed by human histology and research that shows its efficacy and safety. Our team is trained to provide laser treatment of gum disease and can help to restore your oral health.

What is gum recession?

Gum recession is a loss of gum tissue along the gum line. Gum recession can occur because of periodontal diseases like gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. It can also occur from brushing your teeth too hard, brushing using a toothbrush with hard bristles, or just because of your body's natural aging process.

Why should I worry about gum recession?

Gum recession exposes the root structure of the tooth and allows tooth decay and other problems to affect the teeth along and beneath the gum line. Having healthy gums is critical if you want a healthy mouth, so treating your gum recession is important for your lasting dental wellness.

What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™)?

The Pinhole Surgical Technique™ is a minimally invasive way to treat gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting techniques, PST™ is incision and suture free. Dr. Kivett was trained by Dr. John Chao, the doctor who created the tools and techniques used to perform the Pinhole Surgical Technique™.

How does the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™) differ from traditional gum grafting?

Traditional gum recession treatments use donor tissue or soft tissue grafts to rebuild the gum line. The soft tissue is sutured in place so it can fuse with existing gum tissue as the tissue heals. Traditional gum grafting treatment is effective but painful. The Pinhole Surgical Technique™ has comparable results with better patient experience because there is no cutting or suturing.

How is Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™) performed?

To perform the Pinhole Surgical Technique™, a needle is used to make a small hole in your existing gum tissue. Through this pinhole, the doctor uses special instruments to gently loosen the gum tissue. By loosening the gum tissue, the tools help expand and slide the gum line to cover your exposed root structure. The doctor then inserts collagen strips to help hold your gums in place and promote healing. There are no grafts, no sutures, and no incisions with the Pinhole Surgical Technique™. All that is needed to fix your receding gum line is to adjust the existing tissue.

What are the benefits of Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™)?

The advantages of the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ are many and include:

• Less discomfort after treatment than with traditional grafting

• Quicker recovery times than with traditional grafting

• No uncomfortable sutures

• No scalpels or invasive surgical tools

• No donor tissue cut from your palate

• Exceptional, natural-looking, long-lasting results

Your First Visit

Going to a new dentist can be stressful. At Associates of Dental Arts, we strive to provide stress free dentistry. When you choose to visit us, you can be sure that you will be treated with respect and compassion while receiving the best dental care possible.

Our Passions:

• Patient Comfort: We are here to make you as comfortable as possible by providing a relaxing atmosphere with amenities such as massaging treatment chairs.
• Compassion: Too many dentists focus on diagnosing and treating without acknowledging the patient’s feelings and anxieties. We care about your well-being and take time to listen to your questions and concerns.
• Patient Education: We believe in getting to know you personally and taking the time to explain the treatment we recommend and why we recommend it.
• Convenient Access to Care: It can take time to become comfortable with a dentist.  When you are referred out to a new dentist you have to deal with the anxiety all over again. Since our team has such a passion for practicing dentistry and continuing their education, we rarely have to refer our patients out of our office.
• Top Quality Results: We have a building built for dentistry with the latest technology, we use high quality products, and we stand behind our work. We strive to be the best by doing the best for you.
• Patient Safety: We take your safety very seriously. Our building has a water filtration system that we regularly check to ensure all water we use is pure. We follow the latest in infection control standards and regularly train our team to ensure compliance. Also, our surgery suites double as a tornado shelter.

What to Expect:

When you step into our office, our friendly receptionist will greet you and confirm that we have all the information we need for your appointment. You will then have a moment to sit in one of our comfortable waiting room chairs and enjoy a complimentary water.  Don't forget to try out the new monthly flavor of lip balm located at the front counter too! You may notice that our office does not have that typical cramped doctor office feel. We strive to provide you with a relaxing atmosphere and between the beautiful wall of windows, smart décor, high ceiling, elegant hanging lights and the sound of our fountain, you might think you are in a health spa instead of a dentist office.

After a moment or two, you will be taken back to visit with our New Patient Coordinator, Sonya. She will help guide you as we take all the necessary x-rays and do a complete examination of your teeth and mouth. This includes checking for oral cancer, gum disease and cavities. If you are due for a dental cleaning, she will also clean your teeth. Sonya will then take the time to talk with you about your oral health and about any issues she has identified.

After Sonya is done, Dr. Kivett will review your x-rays and do his own visual exam. He will then explain to you any issues we have identified and what he recommends for treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, Dr. Kivett loves talking about dentistry.

When you are done and all of your questioned have been answered, you will meet with one of our wonderful Scheduling Coordinators. He or she will help go over the cost of your treatment plan and your financing options. After answering all of your questions, we will help you schedule your next appointment. When you are all done, we will send you off with a smile.

Contact us today and make an appointment. We love to see you smile!

We offer the following sedation dentistry services in our practice:

Oral Sedation
This form of sedation allows us to relieve anxiety without any needles or intravenous tubes. If you tend to have trouble getting numb, oral sedation will help you become sedated and relaxed. You will be asked to take a small pill about an hour before your appointment. This will make you slightly drowsy, but you will also feel relaxed and calm. Once relaxed, we will complete your dental procedure. You will need a companion to take you home to rest and sleep for a couple of hours after your appointment.

Nitrous Oxide (N2O)

Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as laughing gas, has been utilized in dentistry for decades and is used by more than 35 percent of dentists in the United States today. Within five minutes of inhaling the colorless and odorless gas, all pain is neutralized and you will feel euphoric. We can complete the dental procedure while you are completely relaxed and you will not feel any pain. You will return to normal within minutes after the gas is stopped.
 

Is fear or anxiety keeping you from getting the dental care you need? If so, you may be a great candidate for sedation dentistry. At Associates of Dental Arts, we are skilled in the use of nitrous oxide and conscious sedation to help you have a comfortable, stress-free experience during your dental appointments.

Everyone deserves to have a healthy, beautiful smile. Please call us at 417-781-5600 to schedule a consultation with our team to discuss sedation dentistry and find out how it can help you.
 

In a nutshell, absolutely!

The higher percentage of the whitening ingredient combined with the ability to customize our professional teeth whitening options allows for the best possible results. From customized trays to personalized care while you are undergoing treatment, you can trust that your teeth will look beautiful quickly and safely.

Professional teeth whitening treatments prevent whitening product from getting on soft tissues like your lips, gums, and tongue. Plus, our whitening options contain an added desensitizing ingredient so that even people with sensitive teeth can get great results.
 

More adults than ever are looking into orthodontic treatment for crooked and misaligned teeth. The team at Associates of Dental Arts is skilled in the use of Invisalign, which can give you a beautiful, healthy smile while allowing you to maintain a mature and professional appearance. To find out if this option is right for you, please call our office to schedule a consultation.

More adults than ever are looking into orthodontic treatment for crooked and misaligned teeth. The team at Associates of Dental Arts is skilled in the use of Invisalign, which can give you a beautiful, healthy smile while allowing you to maintain a mature and professional appearance. To find out if this option is right for you, please call our office to schedule a consultation.

Your First Visit

Going to a new dentist can be stressful. At Associates of Dental Arts, we strive to provide stress free dentistry. When you choose to visit us, you can be sure that you will be treated with respect and compassion while receiving the best dental care possible.

Our Passions:

• Patient Comfort: We are here to make you as comfortable as possible by providing a relaxing atmosphere with amenities such as massaging treatment chairs.
• Compassion: Too many dentists focus on diagnosing and treating without acknowledging the patient’s feelings and anxieties. We care about your well-being and take time to listen to your questions and concerns.
• Patient Education: We believe in getting to know you personally and taking the time to explain the treatment we recommend and why we recommend it.
• Convenient Access to Care: It can take time to become comfortable with a dentist.  When you are referred out to a new dentist you have to deal with the anxiety all over again. Since our team has such a passion for practicing dentistry and continuing their education, we rarely have to refer our patients out of our office.
• Top Quality Results: We have a building built for dentistry with the latest technology, we use high quality products, and we stand behind our work. We strive to be the best by doing the best for you.
• Patient Safety: We take your safety very seriously. Our building has a water filtration system that we regularly check to ensure all water we use is pure. We follow the latest in infection control standards and regularly train our team to ensure compliance. Also, our surgery suites double as a tornado shelter.

What to Expect:

When you step into our office, our friendly receptionist will greet you and confirm that we have all the information we need for your appointment. You will then have a moment to sit in one of our comfortable waiting room chairs and enjoy a complimentary water.  Don't forget to try out the new monthly flavor of lip balm located at the front counter too! You may notice that our office does not have that typical cramped doctor office feel. We strive to provide you with a relaxing atmosphere and between the beautiful wall of windows, smart décor, high ceiling, elegant hanging lights and the sound of our fountain, you might think you are in a health spa instead of a dentist office.

After a moment or two, you will be taken back to visit with our New Patient Coordinator, Sonya. She will help guide you as we take all the necessary x-rays and do a complete examination of your teeth and mouth. This includes checking for oral cancer, gum disease and cavities. If you are due for a dental cleaning, she will also clean your teeth. Sonya will then take the time to talk with you about your oral health and about any issues she has identified.

After Sonya is done, Dr. Kivett will review your x-rays and do his own visual exam. He will then explain to you any issues we have identified and what he recommends for treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, Dr. Kivett loves talking about dentistry.

When you are done and all of your questioned have been answered, you will meet with one of our wonderful Scheduling Coordinators. He or she will help go over the cost of your treatment plan and your financing options. After answering all of your questions, we will help you schedule your next appointment. When you are all done, we will send you off with a smile.

Contact us today and make an appointment. We love to see you smile!

At Associates of Dental Arts, we strive to make our high quality dentistry affordable to the community. We accept and file all private dental insurance and offer a number of payment plans to help cover the cost of care. Please contact us with any questions you may have.

Option 1: Pre-Pay Discount (Balance of $300 or more.)

Cash/Check: 5% Account adjustment for payment in full before treatment begins.

Credit/Debit: 3% Account adjustment for payment in full before treatment begins.

Option 2: Credit Financing - Care Credit

$200 Minimum Purchase

$0 down, $0 Fees, and deferred interest for 6 - 24 months or 14.9% for 24 - 60 months

Revolving line of credit for all medical purchases through Care Credit providers.      

http://www.carecredit.com/go/HWG538/      

Option 3: In-office payment plan:

Please call us or stop by for details on our in-office payment plans. Typical plan is 30% down and balance in monthly payments from 6 - 12 months.