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5 Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth decay and cavities are the most common reasons for visiting the dentist. While the news that you need a filling may not be what you hope you hear, you’re in good hands at Hebron Family Dentistry. We offer tooth-colored fillings to restore your smile with beautifully natural results. Here’s all you need to know about our aesthetic restorations and the many benefits they offer.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as white fillings, are restorations made of a composite resin material that closely mimics many of the qualities of your natural tooth enamel, including its color, shade, and translucency. They offer a safe and effective solution for treating decayed teeth, delivering seamless results. They can also repair minor tooth chips, cracks, or wear, enhancing the health and appearance of your smile.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings?
Here is a look at the top five benefits of tooth-colored fillings:
#1 They Look Natural: Tooth-colored fillings look incredibly natural, blending in perfectly with your smile. They are practically unnoticeable when you speak, smile, or laugh. That makes them the preferred restorative option for the front teeth.
#2 They Allow for Quick Treatment: The tooth-colored procedure is quick, usually taking a single office visit to complete. We will numb the area for your comfort, remove any decayed tooth structure, place the filling, and harden it with a curing light. The last step is making adjustments, as needed, and polishing your restoration.
#3 They Provide Structural Support: Unlike traditional fillings, our tooth-colored restorations bond directly to your natural teeth, fortifying their structure. When preparing to place your white filling, we can preserve more of healthy tooth structure, maintaining the strength and integrity of your tooth.
#4 They Are Resistant to Temperature Changes: Silver fillings contract or expand in response to temperature changes, which can sometimes cause the teeth to weaken and crack. Tooth-colored fillings do not respond to temperature changes, making them less likely to cause problems such as cracks or fractures.
#5 They Are Durable: Tooth-colored fillings are durable, lasting 10 years or longer with proper care. Make sure you brush and floss regularly and avoid biting down on hard objects that may damage your restoration. We also encourage you to keep up with your regular dental exams and cleanings every six months so we can monitor your oral health and your restorations and ensure they stay in tip-top shape.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Near Me in Hebron, KY
At Hebron Family Dentistry, we strive to provide our valued patients with durable, aesthetic restorations for long-term, healthy, and beautiful smiles. Dr. Watson and our patient-centered team are committed to providing quality, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. We invite you to call us at 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!
Avoid Frightful Teeth This Halloween
Halloween is just around the corner, and candy is everywhere! There are many frightful things about Halloween, but your teeth don’t have to be one of them. Our team at Hebron Family Dentistry has put together a guide with tips on keeping your smile healthy this holiday season.
Halloween Tips for Healthy Smiles
Here are some ways to keep your teeth healthy this holiday season:
- Time Your Treats: Time your sweet Halloween treats for during or after a meal, which is when saliva production is at its peak. Saliva helps clean your teeth and neutralizes acids, lowering the risk of tooth decay.
- Practice Moderation: Opt for fun-sized candies instead of full-sized candy bars. These smaller portions will satisfy you just as much as the larger ones while exposing your teeth to a fraction of the sugars.
- Avoid Snacking and Grazing: The last thing you want to do is snack on sweet treats throughout the day. Choose a few pieces to eat during or after lunch or dinner, and opt for fresh fruit or veggies if you want a snack.
- Steer Clear of Chewy or Sticky Candy: Chewy or sticky candies like caramel or taffy can stick to every groove and crevice on your teeth and are hard to remove, even with brushing and flossing. The longer these candies sit on your teeth, the more risk they pose to your smile.
- Avoid Sour Candies: Sour candies contain plenty of sugar, increasing the risk of decay. They are also highly acidic, which causes the tooth enamel to break down quickly.
- Turn Away from Hard Candies: Hard candies take time to dissolve, leaving plenty of time for harmful oral bacteria to wreak havoc on your oral health. Moreover, biting down on hard candy can chip or fracture your tooth, potentially requiring emergency care.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Aside from its positive health benefits, water is great for your teeth. It helps enhance saliva production, rinse away sugars, and neutralize acids, safeguarding your smile.
- Choose Sugar-Free Gum: Sugar-free gum helps increase saliva flow, washing away sugars and bacteria. Gum that contains xylitol is especially effective because it reduces acid-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Make sure you continue brushing and flossing your teeth during the holidays. It’s especially important to maintain good oral hygiene during this time to minimize the risk the sweet Halloween treats pose to your smile.
- Visit Your Dentist: It’s important to keep up with your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings to lower the risk of dental disease. If we detec any underlying concerns, we will recommend prompt treatment to maintain your healthy smile.
Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Hebron, KY
Contact Hebron Family Dentistry to learn more about safeguarding your smile this Halloween. Dr. Watson and her family-friendly team are happy to offer tips and guidance to help you keep your smile healthy this holiday season and all year long. Call 859-689-2021 to schedule your appointment today!
Why Should You Consider Implant-Supported Dentures?
Are you looking for a long-lasting solution to replace missing teeth? At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer a range of tooth replacement solutions, including implant-supported dentures, to deliver beautiful, complete smiles. Unlike traditional dentures, our implant-supported restorations are anchored securely to your jawbone, providing unmatched stability and function. We invite you to discover the future of dentistry!
What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a type of removable overdenture designed to replace missing teeth. They are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, making them an excellent investment in your smile.
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, our implant-supported restorations snap onto several titanium implants strategically placed in your jawbone. Your implants act like natural tooth roots, providing an incredibly stable and secure foundation for replacement teeth that are meticulously crafted to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures?
Here is a look at why many of our patients prefer implant-supported dentures:
- They Provide Unmatched Stability: Your dentures are anchored to implants, which helps keep them securely in place. No more dealing with traditional dentures slipping or shifting out of place at the most inconvenient times.
- They Restore Function: Implant-supported dentures function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods once again without restrictions. You will also be able to speak with clarity and smile with confidence without worrying about your dentures moving or falling out.
- They Prevent Bone Loss: Implant-supported dentures act like natural tooth roots, stimulating your jawbone, which prevents the bone loss that occurs after losing one or more of your teeth. This helps maintain your jawbone health and supports your facial structure.
- They Are Easy to Maintain: Your new restorations do not require dental adhesives or special cleaning routines. You will need to care for them just like natural teeth by brushing, flossing, and visiting Hebron Family Dentistry for your regular dental exams and cleanings.
- They Are Durable: Implant-supported dentures offer a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. With care and proper maintenance, your implants can last a lifetime, unlike dentures that require adjustments and replacement over time.
Implant-Supported Dentures Near Me in Hebron, KY
If you are looking for a solution to replace missing teeth or want a more stable and functional alternative to traditional dentures, Dr. Watson and our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry are here to help. We use the latest technology and techniques to deliver implant-supported dentures meticulously crafted to match your smile. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
What Should You Do If You’ve Chipped a Tooth?
So you’ve chipped a tooth biting down into hard candy or while playing sport. Now what? Our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry offers emergency dental services to prevent complications and restore the tooth to its health and function. We always recommend the most conservative solutions to provide you with the needed relief and get your smile back on track.
What Are the Immediate Steps to Take After Chipping a Tooth?
If you chip a tooth, stay calm and take the following steps:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Place cold compresses over the area to reduce swelling.
- Pick up any tooth fragments and place them in milk or saliva to keep them moist.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief medication if necessary.
- Contact us immediately for an emergency appointment.
If you have a tooth chip or any other damage, make sure to seek care even if you are not experiencing pain. Prompt care can potentially prevent and the need for extensive treatments down the road.
What Are Your Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth?
The type of treatment for a chipped tooth will depend on the extent of damage. Dr. Watson will recommend the most conservative option to restore your smile. Here’s a look at some of our treatment options for chipped teeth:
Cosmetic Bonding: For minor tooth chips, we may recommend cosmetic bonding. The conservative procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to the affected tooth’s surfaces. Next, we will sculpt it to deliver a beautifully natural appearance. The quick, pain-free procedure will enhance your smile and protect your chipped tooth.
Same-Day Crowns: If you have a larger tooth chip, we may recommend placing a dental crown for protection. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we proudly offer CEREC same-day crowns. CEREC crowns are created using omputer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology without the need for any impressions. We’ll have you back in a healthy, beautiful smile in just one office visit.
Root Canal Therapy: If the damage to the tooth exposes the pulp tissues or nerve, you may require a root canal treatment to relieve any discomfort and save the damaged tooth. After numbing your tooth with a local anesthetic, we will make a tiny opening in the tooth’s crown to remove the pulp tissues, reshape the area, and seal the root canals to prevent further damage. The final step is placing a dental crown to protect the treated tooth.
Restorative Dentistry Solutions Near Me in Hebron, KY
If you have a chipped or damaged tooth, Dr. Watson and our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry are here to help. Whether you need dental bonding, a same-day crown, or a root canal treatment, you can count on us for exceptional care and service. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
How Can You Keep Your Teeth Bright After Cosmetic Treatments?
Dr. Watson and our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry are pleased to offer a range of cosmetic dentistry solutions to brighten your smile, including teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, and dental veneers. But how can you maintain your bright, beautiful smile after cosmetic treatment? The following are tips to keep your smile at its best.
Exploring Your Cosmetic Dentistry Options
Here is a look at our featured cosmetic dentistry options that are designed to deliver brighter, whiter smiles:
- Teeth Whitening: We are pleased to offer professional, in-office whitening options that can brighten your smile several shades in just one office visit. We also offer custom whitening trays and bleaching gel for those who want to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their homes.
- Cosmetic Bonding: Cosmetic bonding can be an ideal option for teeth that do not respond well to traditional whitening treatments. The procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite material to your tooth surfaces to correct those little things bothering you about your teeth, instantly perfecting your smile.
- Dental Veneers: Veneers are ultra-thin, porcelain shells we bond to the front surfaces of teeth to mask flaws and imperfections and improve the size, color, shape, or overall appearance of teeth. Your new restorations will instantly brighten your smile.
How Can You Keep Your Smile Bright After Cosmetic Treatment?
Here’s a look at some ways to keep your smile bright after cosmetic treatment:
- Good Home Oral Hygiene: It’s important to brush and floss your teeth regularly, particularly after meals, to remove plaque and keep your smile bright. We recommend using a soft-bristled brush to prevent damage to your tooth enamel or restorations.
- Keep Up with Routine Dental Visits: Keeping up your routine dental cleanings helps remove plaque buildup and surface stains that can dull and discolor your teeth. Your cleaning visits also allow our team to monitor your teeth and address any oral health problems as they surface.
- Limit Dark Foods and Drinks: A helpful tip to keep in mind is the darker or brighter the food or drink, the more likely it is to stain your teeth. Just as coffee, black tea, red wine, and soy sauce can discolor tooth enamel, they can also discolor your restorations.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps keep your smile healthy and bright. Water helps flush away food particles, neutralizes acids, and prevents dry mouth, maintaining a healthy smile and lowering the risk of teeth staining and discoloration.
Cosmetic Dentistry Near Me in Hebron, KY
Hebron Family Dentistry proudly offers top-quality cosmetic dental treatments to keep your smile healthy and bright. If you would like to learn more about transforming your smile and caring for it after treatment, Dr. Watson and our patient-centered team are here to help. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
What Is the Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings?
At Hebron Family Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of routine preventive dental care to maintain your oral health. We are pleased to offer professional dental cleanings to lower the risk of oral health problems and help you keep your smile bright and healthy for a lifetime. Discover why regular dental cleanings should be a priority and how they contribute to your overall health.
How Often Do You Require Dental Cleanings?
Most patients with healthy teeth and gums require twice-yearly dental cleanings. If, however, you have gum disease or are at a higher risk of developing dental problems, you may need more frequent care. We will evaluate your smile’s unique needs and recommend the frequency of cleanings to keep your smile in tip-top shape.
Why Are Dental Cleanings Essential?
Here’s a look at the importance of keeping up with your regular dental cleaning appointments:
Lowering the Risk of Cavities: Even with the most meticulous oral hygiene practices, plaque can harden to tartar (calculus), which only a dental professional can remove. Our skilled dental hygienist will gently clean off plaque and tartar built up on your teeth and gum line, which helps lower your risk of tooth decay, cavities, and more.
Preventing Gum (Periodontal) Disease: Gum disease is a serious oral health concern that can have devastating impacts on your smile. It usually develops as a result of plaque and tartar buildup. Keeping up with your twice-yearly cleanings can lower the risk of gum disease and may even reverse the earliest stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, enhancing your oral health.
Early Intervention: Your dental cleaning visit will include a thorough evaluation of every aspect of your oral health. We will check for tooth decay, gum inflammation, signs of oral cancer, and so much more. Early detection and intervention help prevent minor problems from becoming complex, long-term oral health concerns.
Cleaner, Brighter Smiles: Removing plaque, tartar, and odor-causing bacteria during dental cleanings will help freshen your breath. We will also polish your teeth, which helps remove surface stains, leaving you with a cleaner, whiter, and brighter smile.
Improved Overall Health: Studies have uncovered a strong link between your oral and overall health. Poor oral hygiene care has been closely associated with many serious health concerns, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Prioritizing regular dental cleanings not only safeguards your smile but also helps enhance your overall well-being.
Dental Cleanings Near Me in Hebron, KY
At Hebron Family Dentistry, we are committed to offering a range of preventative dentistry services to help you keep your smile healthy and bright for a lifetime. If you’re due for a dental cleaning or have any oral health concerns, we are here to help. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
The Connection Between Your Oral and Overall Health
The Connection Between Your Oral and Overall Health
Did you know that your oral health is closely connected to your overall well-being? Studies show that the state of your mouth not only influences your general health but can also uncover underlying health concerns. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer comprehensive preventive care to promote brighter smiles and healthier bodies. We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.
The Relationship Between Oral and Overall Health
Your mouth is the gateway to your body’s wellness. Numerous studies show a strong link between your gum health and various systemic conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications. That’s because the bacteria causing gum disease can enter the bloodstream and impact other parts of the body. Additionally, certain conditions, such as diabetes, can increase your risk of periodontal disease, which, in turn, can make it harder for your body to control your blood sugar levels.
The Role of Your Dentist in Identifying Health Problems
Dentists are uniquely equipped to uncover signs of systemic illnesses during your regular, twice-yearly dental exams. Symptoms like swelling, bleeding gums, and mouth sores may sometimes point to serious health concerns. For example, bad breath, bleeding gums, dry mouth, and oral infections are often warning signs of diabetes. On the other hand, pale gums, a red tongue, or mouth corner inflammation may indicate anemia. By monitoring these oral symptoms, dentists play a critical role in the early detection of serious health concerns.
The Importance of Preventive Dental Care
Regular dental exams and cleanings are the cornerstones of preventive dental care, halting the onset or progression of dental disease. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer personalized care tailored to your needs for a brighter smile and better health.
How Good Oral Hygiene Boosts Your Overall Health
Good oral hygiene does more than keep your teeth clean and lower the risk of cavities and gum disease. It has significant impacts on your overall health. This is why we emphasize the importance of regular brushing and flossing and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.
Here’s a look at how good oral hygiene can boost your overall health:
- Reducing Inflammation: Regular brushing and flossing help reduce gum inflammation and decrease the risk of periodontal disease, which has been linked to serious conditions like arthritis and heart disease.
- Preventing Bacteria from Spreading: Maintaining a clean mouth helps prevent harmful bacteria from spreading to other parts of your body, potentially leading to serious complications.
- Boosting Your Immunity: A healthy mouth supports a robust immune system, enhancing your body’s ability to fight diseases more effectively.
Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Hebron, KY
If you haven’t had a dental exam or cleaning in the past six months, visit Hebron Family Dentistry today. Our dedicated team offers preventive services tailored to your unique needs to keep your smile healthy and sound. Don’t wait until dental issues become health concerns. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
What Are the Pros and Cons of Mouthwash?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. Alongside brushing and flossing, many people turn to mouthwash for extra protection against cavities and gum disease. If you would like to learn more about preventative care and how to keep your oral health in tip-top shape, our dedicated team at Hebron Family Dentistry is here to help. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
What Are the Pros of Mouthwash?
Mouthwash offers many benefits, including the following:
- Kills Bacteria: Mouthwash contains antimicrobial ingredients that can help kill bacteria in your mouth. This is particularly useful for reaching areas that brushing and flossing alone may miss, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Prevent Cavities: Some mouthwashes contain fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Using a fluoride mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay, especially for people who do not drink fluoridated water.
- Freshens Your Breath: One of the most immediate benefits of using mouthwash is fresher breath. Mouthwash often contains ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, which can leave your mouth feeling clean and your breath smelling minty fresh.
- Convenient: Mouthwash is easy to use and can be a convenient addition to your oral hygiene routine. It takes just a minute or two to swish around your mouth, making it suitable for busy lifestyles or those who have difficulty brushing and flossing thoroughly.
What Are the Cons of Mouthwash?
Here’s a look at some of the cons of mouthwash:
- Alcohol Content: Many traditional mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can cause dry mouth and irritate your gums. For individuals with sensitive gums or a history of oral health problems, alcohol-free alternatives may be a better choice.
- Masking Symptoms: While mouthwash can freshen breath temporarily, it may only mask underlying problems such as gum disease or tooth decay. Relying solely on mouthwash without addressing the root causes of bad breath or dental problems could lead to more significant issues down the road.
- Potential Side Effects: Some people may experience side effects from using mouthwash, such as allergic reactions or irritation of the mouth tissues. It’s essential to read the label carefully and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
- Not a Substitute for Oral Hygiene Practices: Mouthwash should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. While it can complement your oral hygiene routine, a toothbrush and floss are best suited for removing plaque and debris from your teeth and gums.
Preventative Care Near Me in Hebron, KY
Hebron Family Dentistry proudly offers quality preventive services to keep your smile healthy and sound. We are happy to answer questions and offer tips on home oral hygiene. Are you ready to take charge of your oral health? We invite you to contact us at 859-688-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
Am I Experiencing a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them and may leave you wondering if you require urgent dental care. Left untreated, some of these emergencies can pose a serious risk to your health, so if in doubt, call Hebron Family Dentistry at 859-689-2021 for immediate care. Meanwhile, we’ve compiled a list of signs to help determine whether you are experiencing a dental emergency.
Severe, Persistent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can be persistent and can be so severe it keeps you up all night. If the pain radiates to the neck, jaw, or ear, it may indicate a serious infection. Contact us for an emergency appointment immediately if you have constant throbbing, increased sensitivity, or facial swelling.
An Abscessed or Infected Tooth
Signs of a tooth abscess or infection can include severe tooth pain, puffy or bleeding gums, sensitivity to temperature extremes or touch, or a raised bump on the gums. A tooth infection can pose a risk to your health, so it’s imperative that you seek emergency care immediately.
A Knocked-Out Tooth
Pick up the tooth only by its crown, avoiding the root, and rinse it in clean water to remove dirt or debris. Gently return the tooth to its socket and bite down on a clean gauze to keep it in place. If that’s not possible, carry it between your gums and cheek or place it in some milk. A knocked-out tooth is a time-sensitive emergency. Don’t wait. The sooner you get treatment from our emergency dentist, the higher your chances of saving the affected tooth.
A Cracked or Broken Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area, and place cold compresses to relieve pain or swelling. Contact our office for emergency care. The treatment method will depend on the severity of the damage and the location of the affected tooth.
Soft Tissue Injury
Injuries to the gums, tongue, or cheeks don’t usually result in too much bleeding, but when they do, they can become a serious concern. Place gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze to control the bleeding. If heavy bleeding continues, head to your nearest emergency room for immediate care.
Other Dental Emergencies
Other situations requiring immediate care include bleeding gums, a loose or dislodged tooth, and a lost crown or filling. If in doubt, we recommend contacting Hebron Family Dentistry for guidance. Remember – a dental emergency may not seem as serious as it is, so it’s best to seek care to avoid complications. Dr. Watson will recommend the most conservative solution to relieve your discomfort and restore your healthy smile.
Emergency Dental Care Near Me in Hebron, KY
If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, contact Hebron Family Dentistry at 859-689-2021 right away. Dr. Watson and our dedicated team are committed to providing cutting-edge emergency dental services for prompt relief. You can always count on us for compassionate care that exceeds your expectations!
5 Reasons to Consider Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a superior solution for replacing missing teeth with unmatched stability, function, and aesthetics. At Hebron Family Dentistry, we offer a range of implant restoration options to complete your smile and enhance your quality of life. Here’s a look at five reasons to consider dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are tiny titanium posts we place in the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. They provide a stable foundation to support single crowns, implant-supported bridges, or implant-supported dentures. Whether you are missing one, several, or all of your teeth, a dental implant restoration may be the perfect solution for you!
What Is the Dental Implant Procedure?
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeon will place your implant, which will integrate with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. After healing, which may take several months, we will attach a connector called an abutment and take impressions of your mouth. Our partner dental lab will use your impressions to create an implant restoration designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Here is a look at the top five reasons we recommend dental implants:
- Natural Appearance: Dental implants are meticulously crafted to match your natural teeth, delivering incredibly lifelike results. Your new restorations will have you smiling with confidence once again!
- Superior Stability and Function: Dental implants are anchored to your jawbone, providing stability comparable to natural teeth. They help you speak more clearly and enjoy all your favorite foods once again.
- Prevents Bone Loss: Dental implants act like your natural tooth roots, which helps stimulate the jawbone. They are the only restorations that prevent bone loss, enhancing your oral health and preserving your facial structure.
- High Success Rate: Dental implants have an incredibly high success rate of over 95 percent, with outcomes improving as technology and techniques advance. Implant dentistry is one of the most predictable and successful procedures in modern dentistry.
- Long-Lasting: Dental implants are incredibly durable, providing a long-term tooth restoration solution. With proper care and maintenance, your new implant restoration can enhance your smile for a lifetime!
Dental Implants Near Me in Hebron, KY
If you would like to learn more about restoring your smile with dental implants, contact Hebron Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Watson and her dedicated team are committed to delivering quality restorations that are second only to natural, healthy teeth. We invite you to contact us at 859-689-2021 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!