Frequently Asked Questions

The doctors of Main Street Dental know that dental emeregencies do not always happen during "business hours". That is why we have our emergency number available. This is a cell phone carried by the doctors, not a phone line connected to our clinics. A doctor is answering this number every day. We offer this service as a way for patients to recieve care when an emergency arrises. The emergency number should be called when you are in extreme discomfort after our normal business hours. Please call our clinics first and if you are not answered there, call the emergency number.

There are several reasons for tooth loss.  Dental caries (cavities) are the most common cause for tooth loss in children, and periodontal (gum) disease is the major cause for tooth loss in adults.

For the prevention of dental problems Main Street Dental recommends your child should be seen at 1 year of age.

First, remain calm.  Then find the tooth.  Holding it by the crown (not the root).  Put it in a glass of milk and take your child and the tooth to your dentist immediately. 

Bacteria causes sugars and starches to produce an acid that attacks the enamel covering the teeth.  After repeated acid attacks, the enamel can be broken down and a cavity begins.  Acid attacks begin immediately after every meal or snack and last up to 20 to 30 minutes.

Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth preventing food from getting caught.  The application is fast and comfortable and will protect the teeth for several years.

Plaque accumulation is the cause of periodontal disease.  Plaque is a thin, colorless, sticky film containing bacteria.  When bacteria accumulate they release toxins that irritate the gums and bone that maintain your teeth in the jaw bone.

Yes they are - they help your child to speak clearly and chew naturally, they are also forming a path for the permanent teeth to follow when they are ready to erupt

It is a goal of the Doctors and Staff of Main Street Dental Clinics that students seek careers in the dental profession. Dentistry offers an individual the opportunity to help improve the dental health and overall well-being of the American population.

Careers available in dentistry include:

• Dental Laboratory Technician
• Dental Hygienist
• Dental Assistant
• Dentist

Main Street Dental Clinics would like to offer Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Rochester, New Richland, Ellendale, and Hayfield High School graduates a $500 scholarship to those interested in a future career in dentistry.  The requirements for the scholarship are as follows:

1. Letter from the student/patient is required describing why they are interested in dentistry and indicating the chosen dental career from the admitting undergraduate institution.
2. Applicant must be a patient of record at one of the Main Street Dental Clinics in Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Rochester or New Richland.
3. Once the student/patient is accepted into the actual dental program the student/patient will be required to furnish a letter from the admitting institution stating acceptance into the specific dental program and then a second $500 scholarship will be awarded.

The maximum scholarships awarded of $500 per recipient or a combined total of $2500 per year for Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Rochester (Mayo, John Marshall and Century) and New Richland, Ellendale, and Hayfield High Schools.  Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come basis

Main Street Dental Clinics advocates burshing after each meal. The best way to be sure you are caring for your teeth properly is to discuss your homecare techniques and needs with your dentist or hygienist.

Research shows that both powered and manual toothbrushes are equally effective when used properly. The best way to be sure your are caring for your teeth properly is to discuss your homecare and needs with your dentist or hygienist.

Main Street Dental Clinics would be happy to discuss several options withh you to help you with your smile. We offer prohylaxis, whitening toothpastes, bleaching at home, in-office laser treatment or a combination of procedures.