In dental terms, it is also known as scaling. It involves the removal of deposits and stains on surface of the teeth.
Even if you brush and floss regularly, getting a cleaning necessary.
It is a great way to keep your mouth healthy and odor free.
So, it is recommended to have a dental visit for every 6-12 months.
WHAT TYPE OF BRUSH SHOULD I BUY?
Usually ultra soft bristled tooth brush will be the most comfortable and safest choice.
You should change your tooth brush for every 3 months.
WHAT I DO WITH MY BLEEDING GUMS?
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis or gum disease.
You should schedule a professional dental cleaning and check-up.
Improve your daily oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I VISIT A DENTIST?
It is generally recommended to visit your dentist every 6 months for a routine check-up and professional cleaning.
Some patients with specific dental conditions may need more frequent visits.
HOW SAFE ARE DENTAL X - RAYS?
Dental X-rays are very safe. The radiation exposure is extremely low.
We use modern digital X-rays which further reduce radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional X-rays.
We also use lead aprons and thyroid collars for added protection.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A CAVITY?
A cavity is a small hole that develops in your tooth due to tooth decay.
It is caused by bacteria in plaque that convert sugars from food into acids, which eat away at the tooth enamel.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY TOOTH BRUSH?
You should change your toothbrush or brush head every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
A worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I START TAKING MY CHILD TO SEE THE DENTIST?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child go to the dentist by age 1 or within six months after the first tooth erupts.
Early visits help establish a dental home and prevent early childhood cavities.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD SUCKS HIS THUMB?
Thumb sucking is normal for infants and young children, but if it continues past the age of 3 or 4, it can affect the alignment of their permanent teeth.
We can offer strategies and oral appliances to help gently break the habit if necessary.
WHAT IS INVISALIGN?
Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces.
It uses a series of clear, custom-made, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth without wires or brackets.
WHAT ARE VENEERS?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth.
They are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, decayed, or crooked.
I NEED A ROOT CANAL TREATMENT BUT DOES THAT MEAN I ALSO NEED A CROWN?
In most cases, especially for back teeth (molars and premolars), a crown is highly recommended after a root canal.
A root canal removes the tooth's nerve and blood supply, making it more brittle and susceptible to fracture. A crown protects and strengthens the tooth.
IF I HAVE BRACES, DO I STILL NEED TO SCHEDULE A DENTAL CHECK-UP EVERY 6 MONTHS?
Yes, it is even more important! Braces can trap food and plaque, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Regular check-ups and cleanings are crucial while undergoing orthodontic treatment.
BABY TEETH AREN'T PERMANENT WHY DO THEY NEED SPECIAL CARE?
Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, help with chewing and proper nutrition, and are essential for speech development.
Untreated decay in baby teeth can lead to pain, infection, and damage to the underlying permanent teeth.
HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF MY TEETH BETWEEN DENTAL CHECK- UPS?
Brush at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline.
Limit sugary foods and drinks, and drink plenty of water.
MY TEETH ARE SUDDENLY SENSITIVE?
Sudden tooth sensitivity can be caused by various factors, including a new cavity, a cracked tooth, worn enamel, or receding gums.
It's important to schedule a check-up so we can identify the cause and recommend the right treatment.
AN OBJECT GETS STUCK BETWEEN MY TEETH?
Try to gently remove the object with dental floss.
Never use a sharp object like a pin or toothpick to pry it loose, as this can damage your gums or teeth.
If you can't remove it with floss, contact our office.
WHAT CAN I DO IF I'M SCARED OF GOING TO THE DENTIST?
Dental anxiety is very common. Please let us know about your fears so we can accommodate you.
We offer a relaxing environment, clear communication about procedures, and can discuss options to help you feel more comfortable.
DOES SMOKING MAKE THE TEETH LOOSE?
Yes, smoking is a major risk factor for severe gum disease (periodontitis), which destroys the bone that supports your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Quitting smoking significantly improves your oral and overall health.
WHAT CAUSES TEETH GRINDING?
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is often caused by stress or anxiety, but can also be related to an abnormal bite, missing or crooked teeth, or sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
We can provide a custom night guard to protect your teeth from damage.
WHAT ARE THE DENTAL CARE BASICS I NEED TO DO?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, eat a balanced diet low in sugar, and visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
CAN SOFT DRINK REALLY RUIN MY TEETH?
Yes. Soft drinks, including diet sodas, contain acids that attack tooth enamel.
Regular soda also contains high amounts of sugar, which feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Limiting these drinks is best for your teeth.