Why is my occlusion so important, and just what is occlusion, anyway?
Ever had a raspberry seed stuck in your teeth? It might as well have been a boulder, right? Occlusion has to do with the way the teeth fit. If the teeth fit, but the muscles that support the jaw are not happy in that position, the result can be headaches, neck aches, TMJ (jaw joint) problems, broken or severely worn teeth, receding gums and loosening of the teeth. The reason it is so important is if the teeth, bones, joints and muscles are in harmony, the “permanence” or longevity of the dentistry required is highly predictable.

I read somewhere that headaches can be related to my bite. Is that true?
The matrix of muscles that surround the jaw joints and lower jaw also attach to the skull, neck or cervical spine, and the shoulder girdle or what physical therapists call the upper quadrant. There are also peripheral muscles relating to swallowing and head posture that, when stressed by poor bite or occlusion, can be in low grade spasm that ultimately results in headaches.

I experience noises in my jawjoints. Should I be concerned?
Very definitely! Pops, clicks and grinding or sandy-sounding noises mean there is something going on in the joint that is not normal. It usually indicates disharmony between the muscles of mastication and the way the teeth fit, resulting in stretching or tearing of the supporting cartilage and ligaments in the TMJ itself. If these signs and symptoms are accompanied by pain, better have it checked out--quick!!

What is the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education?
Please see our Pankey Dentistry page.

Do you accept my insurance plan?
Dr. Risbrudt is NOT a member of any plan. If you have indemnity-type dental insurance where you have a choice of dentists, we can help you maximize the benefits you have coming under your contract. Remember, insurance companies’ first goal is making a profit for their shareholders, and secondarily helping you with your dental needs!

What do I do if I have an emergency when the office is closed?
Dr. Risbrudt can always be reached at the number listed on our office message center. If Dr. Risbrudt is away for any reason, a doctor on call, whom he knows personally, will be available.

I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What happens if it comes off or breaks?
If the temporary comes off, it is rather important to get it back on in order to hold the proper relationship for the new restoration. There is a commercial product available in pharmacies, called DenTemp that can be used in an emergency. Also, in a pinch, a mixture can be made with baby powder and Vaseline, mixed to a toothpaste consistency that will hold the cap on for a several days. If the temporary breaks and there are no symptoms with the tooth, it should be re-made and re-cemented on the next business day, if possible. If the tooth is uncomfortable, call Dr. R. on the emergency number listed on the message center.

What different payment options do you provide.
Please see the financial section of our website.

How can I ask Dr. Risbrudt questions directly?
Dr. Risbrudt will make timely responses by e-mail or phone. If you need to consult with him regarding treatment options that you are considering, please call the office to schedule a no-charge second opinion visit.

I don’t like drills. Are there any other options?
Your other options, which are not currently available in this practice, are air-abrasion technology or hard-tissue (exemer) laser. These are not available in our office because, after careful research at this point in time, there is not significant time savings for the patient to warrant the capital investment required. We feel dental patients don’t want to be in the office any longer than is absolutely necessary, so we are able to perform these services in less elapsed time with conventional means at this moment.