FAQ

Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining good oral health. While it might seem economical to only visit the dentist when a problem arises, preventive care is more cost-effective and less time-consuming. Regular checkups help in early detection and prevention of potential issues, ensuring that your teeth and gums remain healthy. By visiting us twice a year, we can monitor your oral health, provide professional cleanings and offer guidance on proper oral hygiene practices.

Flossing is essential because it cleans the areas between your teeth and under the gumline that your toothbrush cannot reach. It removes plaque and bacteria, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Incorporating flossing into your daily routine ensures a more comprehensive clean, keeping your mouth healthy.

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bed, using an ADA-approved soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. Additionally, using a mouthrinse can enhance your oral hygiene routine. Contact our office if you have any questions about proper brushing and flossing techniques.

Dental X-rays are very safe. Modern advancements, such as digital imaging and high-speed X-rays, significantly reduce radiation exposure. You receive less radiation from dental X-rays than from everyday exposure to the sun. Federal regulations also ensure X-ray machines are regularly checked for safety and accuracy.

We understand dental anxiety and are here to help. Please speak with our team about your concerns. We offer various strategies to ease your anxiety, including sedation dentistry, medication to numb treated areas, and techniques such as guided imagery and deep breathing.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist about six months after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. These early visits help your child become comfortable in the dental setting and allow us to monitor their growth and development.

Babies typically start developing teeth in the second trimester of pregnancy, and teeth usually begin to emerge between 6 and 10 months of age. Begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they have two adjacent teeth to maintain their oral health.

Primary teeth play a crucial role in your child’s development. They aid in proper speech, nutrition and digestion, and they hold space for permanent teeth, contributing to straighter adult teeth. Taking care of primary teeth sets the foundation for excellent oral health.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your teeth, contributing to a more beautiful smile. Treatments include teeth whitening, veneers, composite fillings, bonding, crowns, bridges, implants and orthodontics. These procedures can improve both the function and aesthetics of your teeth.

Several options are available for replacing a missing tooth. During your visit, our dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your treatment goals. Options may include dental implants, bridges, and complete or partial dentures. We will create a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile.

A root canal is a procedure used to treat infection or decay that has reached the inner tissues of the tooth. The process involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and sterilizing the canals, and sealing the tooth to prevent further infection. Advances in dentistry have made root canals more comfortable and effective.

Orthodontics is a dental specialty focusing on diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists receive additional training after dental school to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, several permanent teeth have erupted, making it easier to diagnose and treat developing issues.

No, you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Many adults seek orthodontic care to improve their smiles and oral health. As long as your teeth and supporting structures are healthy, you can receive treatment.

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It starts as gingivitis (mild stage) and can progress to periodontitis (severe stage) if untreated. Regular checkups help detect and manage this condition.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in plaque, which hardens into tartar. If not removed, it leads to gum inflammation, pocket formation and eventual destruction of gum and bone tissue. Early treatment is essential to prevent irreversible damage.

Symptoms include:

• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Pus between gums and teeth
• Mouth sores
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in your bite and in the fit of oral appliances

If you experience any of these, please contact us.

Bad breath can result from various factors, including poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, tobacco use, and certain foods or medical conditions. Maintain good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, use mouthrinses and avoid tobacco products. Persistent bad breath should be evaluated by a dentist or physician to rule out underlying health issues.