FREQUENTLY ASKED DENTAL QUESTIONS

Try to visit twice a year. Visiting the dentist can uncover early problems with your teeth and gums that you might not have already noticed. Early detection can prevent these issues from worsening. 

Brushing should happen at least twice a day, in the morning and evening. Flossing should take place once a day. 

Use the following steps: 

1. Use a soft brush. 
2. Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
3. Use short forward and backward motions. 
4. Brush gently to avoid damaging teeth and gums. 
5. Cover the entire tooth, including the inside, outside, and top.
6. Brush for at least 2 minutes.

Use the following steps:

1. Wrap the floss around the middle finger of each hand.
2. Carefully slide floss up and down between your teeth. 
3. Move floss up and down the surface of the tooth. 
4. Use this process for all teeth.

It is a film that is left on teeth from food and bacteria. Excessive plaque that is not removed can cause cavities and gum disease. Brushing, flossing, and following a healthy diet can help prevent plaque. 

Gum disease develops after excessive plaque builds up on the teeth. This causes gums to become red and irritated — this stage is also known as gingivitis. In advanced cases, gum disease can lead to bleeding gums and tooth loss. 

Call us if you experience the following:

• Bleeding gums
• Tender gums
• Red / swollen gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Change in your bite
• Change in fit of dentures 

Gum disease can be prevented by sticking to good dental habits. Brush, floss, and visit the dentist frequently. Follow a healthy diet to care for your teeth.

Periodontal exams can reveal early signs of tooth decay and gum disease that you can't feel, so you should see a periodontist 3 times a year. Catching problems early makes them easier to treat. Periodontists can also clean areas you can't easily reach.

Over time, the enamel on our teeth becomes worn down. Once enamel wears down, a yellow substance called dentin becomes visible. 

There are 3 very popular methods for teeth whitening: 

1. Whitening in your dentist's office: We use peroxide gel to quickly whiten teeth in one visit.
2. Take-home whitening: Purchase a kit from your dentist to bring home. These kids have a lower-strength gel that must be worn over time to achieve whiter teeth.
3. Purchase a whitening kit in-store: These kits are typically less expensive but since the gel is not as strong, they are not as effective as in-office whitening.

Typically the whitening will last from 1-3 years. Touch-ups can help maintain whiteness for longer. 

Many different issues can cause bad breath, from your diet to having a dry mouth. Your dentist can help discover the underlying cause. 

Good health habits and regular dental visits can eliminate this problem. Pay extra attention to brushing your tongue. 

To take care of your dentures, clean and soak them at night and keep your dental appointments.

Orthodontics deals with straightening teeth to correct function or cosmetic issues. Pressure is applied to misaligned teeth to move them into place. Metal, plastic, and ceramic appliances are available.

Your child should first see an orthodontist by the age of 7. At this point, they will have enough teeth to predict if treatment will be needed.

Reasons an individual may need braces:

• Upper or lower teeth protrude excessively
• Teeth don't align or don't touch when biting
• Problems chewing
• Crowded or overlapped teeth
• Spaces between teeth
• Thumb-sucking after the age of 6

Traditional metal braces and contemporary options are available. There are self-ligating braces and various kinds of invisible braces. The type of braces you can use may depend on the arrangement of your teeth.

When you first get braces, you may experience mild discomfort for 24 to 72 hours. You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce the discomfort.

You should brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Ask your dentist or orthodontist if you need a fluoride rinse. You should also remember to keep your retainer clean and put it in its container while you eat. Avoid sticky and chewy foods, and schedule regular checkups with your dentist.

Brush your teeth 3 times a day or more when you have braces and floss daily. Your orthodontist can show you how to floss while you have braces.

You should see your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups when you have braces. You may need to schedule an additional cleaning during the year.

If you play a sport, you should wear a mouthguard. You may need to make some adjustments when playing an instrument, but you should be able to continue.