When a tooth has been significantly damaged by decay, injury, or previous dental work, there may not be enough healthy tooth structure left to support a dental crown. In these situations, your dentist may recommend a dental buildup before placing the final restoration. Although many patients haven't heard of this procedure, a dental buildup is...
When you think about protecting your heart, brushing and flossing may not be the first things that come to mind. However, growing research continues to show that your oral health and overall health are closely connected. While maintaining a healthy smile isn't a guaranteed way to prevent heart disease, healthy gums and good oral hygiene...
For many couples, working together every day might sound impossible. For Dr. William P. “Trey” Dickey III and Leigh Dickey, it became the foundation of both a successful marriage and a thriving dental practice. The husband-and-wife team behind Big River Dental has spent nearly three decades building a life together — personally and professionally. Trey...
If you’ve been told you need a dental implant – or you’re just starting to research your options – you’ve probably noticed one important quality right away: implants are not the cheapest solution. So, it’s fair to ask the question most patients are thinking but don’t always say out loud: Are dental implants actually worth...
One of the most common questions patients ask after hearing they need a dental crown is: “Can’t you just do a filling instead?” It’s a fair question. Most people would naturally prefer the simpler, less involved option whenever possible. And at Big River Dental, we believe in conservative treatment whenever we can. But sometimes, a...
Most people think of brushing and flossing as ways to protect their teeth and gums – but your oral health may affect much more than your smile. Research has shown there may be a connection between gum health and heart health, which is one more reason preventive dental care matters. At Big River Dental, we...
When it comes to going to the dentist, many patients arrive with expectations shaped by past experiences, stories heard, or simply uncertainty about what the appointment will be like. At Big River Dental, we understand that – and we believe a great dental experience starts with clarity, comfort, and consistency. That’s why we’re taking a...
If you’ve been researching dental offices or noticed changes in your local dental community, you may have come across the term “DSO.” It might sound technical, but it can have a real impact on your experience as a patient. At Big River Dental, we're passionate about helping our patients understand how different types of dental...
If you’ve ever looked over your dental insurance explanation of benefits and noticed that your composite filling wasn’t fully covered, you’re not alone. Many patients are surprised to learn that some insurance plans “downgrade” composite (tooth-colored) fillings to amalgam coverage, which can affect how much of the treatment is covered. Understanding how insurance downgrades work...
Dental insurance can be confusing for patients. One question we hear more often lately is: Why are some dentists choosing to leave insurance networks? It’s a fair question, especially when patients are trying to make the most of the insurance coverage they already pay for. To understand what’s happening, it helps to look at how...
