When should my child begin visiting the dentist regularly?
Pediatricians and dentists recommend your child visit a dentist around their first birthday. A dental visit at an early age is a "well baby checkup" for the teeth. The dentist will check for tooth decay, demonstrate how to clean the child's teeth properly, and evaluate any adverse habits, such as thumbsucking. Usually, children are seen every 6 months for a checkup, but your dentist will determine how often your child should be seen based upon his/her dental health.
What causes tooth sensitivity, and what can I do for my sensitive teeth?
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay, a cracked tooth, worn enamel, worn fillings, or tooth roots that are exposed as a result of aggressive brushing and/or periodontal disease. After an exam by your dentist to determine what's causing your sensitivity, different treatment options will be discussed. If your teeth are healthy but sensitive, then a prescription strength toothpaste can alleviate most of your symptoms; such a toothpaste contains compounds that block sensation traveling from the tooth surface to the nerve.
Are electric toothbrushes really better?
That depends on what kind of electric toothbrush to which you refer. Sonicare and Rotodent toothbrushes incorporate new technology to aid in plaque removal; these are superior to manual toothbrushes. However, the battery powered toothbrushes on the market, i.e. spinbrush, are no better than a manual toothbrush and, in fact, are more of a novelty item.
Exactly what is the best way to brush my teeth?
The most effective way to brush your teeth with a manual toothbrush is to use a soft bristled tooth brush, angle the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth, use a circular motion, and cleanse all surfaces of each tooth. Close attention should be paid to where the tooth meets the gums; this location is where most plaque accumulates. A minimum of two minutes twice a day is required to be effective with toothbrushing. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months.
Which toothpaste and mouthwash is best?
Any toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval is acceptable. Toothpaste should be selected on an individual basis, depending upon the patient. For example, Sensodyne is recommended for sensitive teeth, or Crest Cavity Protection (plain Crest gel or paste) is recommended for patients who are highly susceptible to mouth ulcers. Whitening toothpastes have abrasives in them which can cause gingival irritation; they have not been shown to be effective. Crest ProHealth Rinse and Listerine are the 2 over the counter mouthwashes we recommend, both kill bacteria while giving you fresh breath.
What can I do about bad breath?
Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems such as periodontal (gum) disease, a dry mouth, or other disorders which may be the cause. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating periodontal (gum) disease, and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath. Regardless of what may be the cause, good oral hygiene is essential. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. Brush your tongue, too. If you wear dentures, be sure to remove them at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.
Do my silver fillings need to be replaced?
As a general rule, healthy and well-fitting amalgams do not need to be replaced. However, oxidation of the filling material will cause fractures and microfractures within the tooth which lead to enamel fracture. These fractures can and often do cause pain when the crack gets close to the pulp (nerve), requiring root canal treatment.
What is so bad about amalgam anyway?
This old filling material contains mercury, which is a potent neurotoxin. Because we know the amalgam contains a neurotoxin and adds only 10% of total strength once the tooth is restored, we do not place this type of filling in our practice. Amalgam also permanently stains the tooth, and in some instances this stain is too widespread to be removed conservatively.
What are the symptoms of TMD/TMJ (Temperomandibular Joint Disorder)?
More than fifteen percent of American adults suffer from chronic facial pain. Some common symptoms include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth, or even headaches and neck aches. If you have suspect that you suffer from TMD, you should bring this to your dentist's attention at your next examination.
What will my insurance pay?
We make every effort to estimate the patient's copay prior to treatment. However, because of the increasing number of insurance plans with which we must deal, it is not possible for us to be precise 100% of the time. Therefore, at the time of service, the patient pays his/her estimated copay, insurance pays their portion, then the patient will receive a statement if there is a balance.
Why do I need a crown after a root canal procedure?
During the endodontic (root canal) procedure, the pulp (nerve and blood supply to the tooth) is removed. Therefore, the tooth will no longer receive nutrients from the blood supply; this weakens the tooth and makes it more susceptible to fracture. To protect the tooth from fracture, a crown is recommended following endodontic procedures.
