FAQs
Q: What causes bad breath?
A: Bad breath may be caused by many factors, such as systemic diseases, tooth decay, an unbrushed tongue, acid reflux, etc. It is important to give your dentist a full medical history, so that the cause can be properly diagnosed.
Q: At what age should my children see a dentist?
A: Around the age of three, unless you notice a problem before then. The first visit may only be a ride in the chair and picking out a prize. With each checkup, we add in more fun!
Q: Why is it important to fix baby teeth that have decay? Aren’t they going to come out soon anyway?
A: It is very important to maintain the baby teeth because these teeth hold space for future permanent teeth. If a baby tooth develops decay or is removed too early, the space necessary for the permanent tooth is lost. The space can then only be regained through orthodontic treatment. Infected baby teeth may cause permanent teeth to not develop properly. This could result in staining, pits, and a mottled appearance of adult teeth.
Q: What should I do if my child or I get a tooth knocked out?
A: If the tooth is a permanent tooth, time is very crucial. Place the tooth back in the socket immediately. You don’t need to worry about getting it in straight or having it turned backwards. Then immediately call the dentist. If you don’t feel comfortable placing the tooth back in the socket, place it in a glass of milk and get your child to the dentist as soon as possible. If the tooth is a baby tooth, do not place it back in the socket as damage may occur to the permanent tooth. If the tooth is loose and still in the socket, leave it, and see your dentist immediately. If it has been knocked out, pick the tooth up by the crown, not by the root. Gently rinse the tooth without scrubbing it and do not attempt to dry it off. Don’t let the tooth dry out and try to see the dentist within 30 minutes.
Q: Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
A: Bleeding gums are an early indicator of gingivitis, usually caused by plaque accumulated under the gumline. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a serious disease of the gums and bone. You can reverse gingivitis by brushing properly and flossing. If bleeding persists after two or three weeks, call your dentist. In some cases, bleeding may be an indicator of more serious systemic problems, which would require a referral to your physician.
Q: How often should I go to the dentist?
A: You should visit your dentist to have your teeth cleaned at least every six months. Seeing your dentist twice a year is a good way to monitor your oral health and help you prevent any problems that may arise before they became uncomfortable or expensive. Depending on your diagnosis, the dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
Q: Will bleaching damage my teeth?
A: No. When carbamide peroxide, the active whitening agent, contacts water, hydrogen peroxide is released which whitens the teeth. Bleaching does not soften, demineralize or weaken the teeth.
Q: Do over-the-counter bleaching products work?
A: There is evidence that over-the-counter bleaching products do work well. However, many of the products are too abrasive and, with improper use, could damage teeth. Dental supervision is the safest and most effective way to whiten your teeth.
Q: How often should I brush my teeth?
A: The American Dental Association promotes brushing two times a day. Although there is some research indicating that brushing once a day is sufficient, this may not be enough for some people, depending on certain factors such as diet and genetics. ADHA suggests discussing this with your dental hygienist. Your hygienist understands your individual oral health needs and will be able to suggest appropriate action for you.
Q: Which is better: a manual or electric toothbrush?
A: Studies have been conducted using power-assisted (electric) toothbrushes and manual toothbrushes to observe the ability of each to remove plaque. These studies have shown that, when used correctly, both powered and manual toothbrushes are equally effective. It is not the brush you use, as much as it is your brushing technique. However, we have observed that our patients who use an electric toothbrush get consistently better results.
Q: Should I replace my silver-mercury fillings?
A: Until just recently, dentists used a silver and mercury amalgam to fill and seal cavities. This process required that a larger amount of the original tooth be removed, which often weakened the tooth.
Recent innovations now allow old silver fillings to be replaced with composite or porcelain fillings. These fillings bond directly to the tooth and are safer, stronger and more natural looking while also providing more protection from fracturing. However, a tooth with a properly functioning amalgam should not be replaced until it becomes necessary
Q: Is there an easy way of repairing my chipped tooth?
A: Cosmetic bonding is a quick, affordable, and painless way to repair many tooth injuries or cosmetic flaws. These may include gaps in teeth, chipped teeth, and stained or spotted teeth. Dental bonding sculpts individual teeth without the removal of any tooth structure. This process bonds a composite material to an existing tooth. It looks, acts, and feels like the real thing. Cosmetic bonding usually does not require the use of an anesthetic and is relatively quick to apply. It gives an immediate result and costs less than veneers.
