Q: How often should I have a cleaning and dental exam?
You should visit your dentist at least two times a year. Your dentist may suggest you come in more frequently if you have certain medical or dental conditions such as periodontal disease.
Q: Why should I use dental floss?
Using dental floss is important because it is able to get into hard to reach areas that your toothbrush cannot. Daily flossing helps prevent plaque from building which causes damage to the gums and bad breath.
Q: How often should I brush my teeth?
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. It is especially important that you brush your teeth before going to bed at night. Twice daily brushing should be combined with daily flossing for optimum health.
Q: How can I prevent bad breath?
Brush and floss your teeth! This is the first line of defense against halitosis. Tobacco usage, dehydration, dieting, dry mouth, and morning time can all also contribute to bad breath. Talk to your dentist for more suggestions.
Q: Are silver fillings safe?
“Silver” fillings are actually made of a material called amalgam – a blend of zinc, tin, copper, and silver, which is bound by elemental mercury. Exposure to mercury is a concern, however the ADA, CDC, FDA, and World Health Organization all agree that amalgam fillings are safe and cost-effective. Out of the millions of fillings over the decades, there have been less than 100 incidents reported to the ADA. If you are still concerned, there are other materials available, and your dentist can advise you on what your best option is.
Q: How can I brighten my stained teeth?
Teeth whitening is an effective way to brighten your smile and give you more confidence. When the enamel wears away as we grow older, teeth will generally appear darker or more yellow. Your dentist can evaluate if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. It is not a permanent solution, so you may need to get a touch-up every few years to maintain your bright smile.
Q: What are veneers?
Veneers are individually crafted pieces of porcelain that are made to cover the fronts of teeth. They can help brighten teeth that are severely discolored, repair uneven teeth, and give a generally uniform appearance to one’s smile.
Q: How do I know if I have gum disease?
Here are some signs that you may have periodontal disease:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth or new spacing between teeth
- Discomfort
- Swollen, red gums
- Receding gums
- Tenderness
- Pus around teeth and gums
If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you visit your dentist as soon as possible, as gum disease can be reversible in the early stages.
Q: Can cosmetic dentistry help me?
If your teeth cause you to feel self-conscious or you feel that there are ways you can improve your smile, than cosmetic dentistry may be a solution for you. Some of the dental procedures available are:
- Teeth whitening
- Porcelain crowns and veneers
- Dental implants
- Orthodontics
Consult your dentist on what solutions may be right for you.