Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Pain when biting can have several possible causes, including a cracked tooth, decay, a loose or damaged filling, or inflammation inside or around the tooth. Because different dental problems can cause similar symptoms, an examination is usually needed to determine exactly what is causing the discomfort.

Dr. Hannahan will examine the tooth and may use X-rays or intraoral photographs to help identify the problem. Once we understand the cause, she can explain what she sees and what treatment, if any, may be appropriate.

Cold sensitivity can happen for several reasons. Common causes include exposed tooth roots from gum recession, worn enamel, decay, cracks, or problems with an existing filling or restoration.

Some sensitivity is minor and temporary, while sensitivity that is new, persistent, or worsening may need further evaluation. Dr. Hannahan can examine the area, help determine the cause, and discuss whether treatment is needed or whether the tooth can simply be monitored.

Whether a tooth needs a filling or a crown depends largely on how much healthy tooth structure remains and how much support the tooth needs.

A filling may be appropriate when the damaged area is relatively small and the remaining tooth is strong enough to support it. A crown may be recommended when a tooth has a large existing filling, significant decay, a fracture, or has lost enough structure that a filling alone may not provide adequate strength.

Dr. Hannahan will review the tooth with you and, whenever possible, use your X-rays and intraoral photographs to show you what she sees and explain why one option may be more appropriate than another.

Yes, but age alone does not mean a filling or crown needs to be replaced. Existing restorations can often continue to function well for many years.

During your examination, Dr. Hannahan looks at the condition of the restoration as well as the tooth around it. If there are signs of decay, fracture, wear, or another problem that could affect the tooth, she will show you what she sees and discuss whether treatment is recommended. If an older restoration is still healthy and functioning well, it may simply be monitored.

Dental implants can be an excellent way to replace missing teeth, but they are not the only option and may not be right for every patient. Your overall health, the health of your gums, the amount of available bone, the location of the missing tooth, and your individual goals all help determine whether an implant is a good choice.

Dr. Hannahan can evaluate your mouth and discuss the different ways a missing tooth may be replaced. If an implant is appropriate, she will explain the process and help you understand how it compares with other options such as a bridge or removable partial denture.

At our office, we want you to understand why treatment is being recommended. Dr. Hannahan uses digital X-rays and intraoral photographs whenever appropriate to show you what she sees and explain the condition of your teeth.

If there is decay, a crack, a failing restoration, or another concern, we’ll show you where it is and explain what it means. We’ll also discuss your treatment options, what may happen if you wait, and whether the tooth needs treatment now or can simply be monitored.

Our goal is for you to understand the reason behind a recommendation—not simply be told what you need.

Yes. Dr. Hannahan believes in treating problems when treatment is necessary, while monitoring conditions that can safely be watched.

Not every stain, crack, aging filling, or imperfection requires immediate treatment. When appropriate, we can document an area with X-rays or photographs and compare it over time.

If treatment is recommended, Dr. Hannahan will explain what she sees, why she believes treatment is appropriate, and what your options are so you can make an informed decision.

Absolutely. We routinely use digital X-rays and intraoral photographs to help patients better understand their dental health.

Seeing an enlarged photograph of a cracked tooth, worn filling, area of decay, or other condition can make something that is difficult to understand much clearer.

Dr. Hannahan will review these images with you and explain what she is seeing so you can be involved in decisions about your care.

Life happens, and there are many reasons someone may go several years without dental care.

Our job is to evaluate where you are today and help you decide where to go from here. We’ll examine your teeth and gums, show you what we find, explain which concerns are most important, and help you prioritize treatment if anything is needed. You don’t necessarily have to do everything at once.”

Yes. Dr. Hannahan understands dental anxiety personally and knows that simply making an appointment can be difficult for some patients.

We encourage you to tell us if you are nervous. We’ll take time to explain what we are doing, answer your questions, and help you understand your options before proceeding with treatment.

Our goal is for you to feel informed, respected, and comfortable asking questions about your care.

Yes. If you’ve been given a treatment recommendation and would like another perspective or simply want to better understand your options, you’re welcome to schedule an examination with Dr. Hannahan.

When possible, bring or have your recent X-rays sent to our office. Dr. Hannahan will evaluate the area, review the images with you, explain what she sees, and discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for you.

Yes. Dr. Hannahan cares for patients of different ages, allowing families to receive much of their dental care in one office. One of the things we enjoy most about family dentistry is developing long-term relationships and getting to know patients and families over time.

Yes. We welcome new patients looking for a dental home in Spring Hill and the surrounding area.

Whether you’re due for routine care, have a specific concern, haven’t been to the dentist in several years, or are simply looking for a new dental home, we’d be happy to meet you.

Not always, but gums that bleed regularly should not be ignored. Bleeding can occur with gingivitis or periodontal disease, but it can also happen from brushing too aggressively or when someone has recently started flossing more consistently.

During your examination, we evaluate the health of your gums and the supporting structures around your teeth. If inflammation or periodontal disease is present, we’ll explain what we find and recommend the appropriate type of cleaning or treatment.