Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS TEETH CLEANING?
- 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.
