GENERAL FAQ

Why is visiting the dentist so important?

It is important to have regular check-ups and cleanings, in order to prevent cavities and gum disease. Preventive care helps prevent bad breath, gum disease, and helps our teeth look more attractive by preventing staining. By maintaining regular dental visits, you will be able to correct small problems that arise before they start causing pain or before they require major dental treatment.

How often should I visit the dentist?

For most people, it is recommended that you see the dentist once every 6 months for routine checkups and cleanings. If a patient has a greater risk of gum disease and/or cavities it is recommended that they visit once every 3 months. 

What causes bad breath?

It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Without brushing and flossing properly, the food stays on the teeth for a long period of time and eventually the food breaks down into bacteria. That process produces sulfur, which smells very bad. The best advice to avoid bad breath is to brush and floss regularly.

Is an electric toothbrush better than manual toothbrush?

Not necessarily. You can have excellent oral hygiene with a manual toothbrush, if you have a good technique of brushing and flossing. The key is to brush for at least 2 minutes. The benefit of an electric toothbrush is that you don’t need as good of hand dexterity and there is a built in timer to let you know when 2 minutes have passed.

Is there a lot of radiation from dental x-rays?

Dental x-rays especially digital x-rays are very low radiation. Compared to a medical CT scan, it exposes the patient to 2,800 times as much radiation as digital X-rays. Additionally, a patient will have more radiation from just taking a flight to California.

What is gum disease (AKA periodontal disease)?

It is infection of soft tissue that support your teeth. It is caused by poor brushing and flossing techniques that accumulate plaque and tartar on the teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the ligaments and bone surrounding the tooth, which will lead to loss of teeth. It can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings and checkups.

What is a cavity?

It is a hole or damage to the tooth that develops over time. Cavities can be caused by poor brushing, eating sugary foods and drinks, lack of fluoride, and dry mouth. If cavities are left untreated, cavities can lead to toothaches, infections and possible tooth loss. It is important for good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, in order to prevent cavities.

Is fluoride important?

Yes, it is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens the enamel. It is found in foods, water, and plants. Most people get it from fluoridated water and toothpaste.

FAMILY DENTISTRY

When will a baby’s first tooth appear?

Usually the first baby tooth appears around the 6 month mark. However, it can vary from child to child. A baby will typically show signs of teething like congestion and drooling, and may be irritable and uncomfortable.

What age should I start taking my child to see the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a child first see a dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. This initial visit will help children feel more comfortable at the dentist and ensure that the teeth are developing correctly. The dentist at this visit will review oral hygiene instructions for the child, as well as determine if there are any signs of cavities. The AAPD recommends regular dental visits every six months based on child’s needs.

What age should my child use a fluoride toothpaste?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children start using fluoride toothpaste when their first tooth appears.
Babies should use a very small amount of toothpaste, no more than a grain of rice
Children under 3 years: Brush twice a day with rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Children 3 years and older: Brush twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

DENTAL EMERGENCIES

What are signs and symptoms of a dental emergency?

A tooth is loose or has come out, a severe toothache that is associated with pain, pressure or sensitivity, swollen face, broken or chipped tooth. If you experience any of these, take immediate action and call your dentist as soon as possible.

What should you do if your tooth is knocked out?

Stay calm and act quickly. Find the tooth and place the tooth in moist milk, saline, or a moistened paper towel; Call your dentist to make an emergency appointment as soon as possible. The dentist may be able to replant the tooth and stabilize it with a wire.