Questions and Answers

It’s recommended that most people see their dentist for a regular check-up and cleaning every six months. However, people with specific oral health issues may need to visit more frequently.

Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups are the best ways to prevent cavities. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet low in sugary and acidic foods can help prevent cavities.

If you have a toothache, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, rinsing your mouth with warm water and using dental floss to remove any lodged food can help. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also provide some temporary relief.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. We use modern techniques that limit the body’s exposure to radiation. Protective aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation the child might receive.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to maintain tight control over your blood sugar levels, as high blood sugar can contribute to gum disease. Regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, good oral hygiene at home, and a balanced diet are crucial in maintaining oral health.

Absolutely. In fact, hormonal changes during pregnancy can make you more susceptible to oral health problems like gum disease, so it’s especially important to keep up with regular dental visits. Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant or suspect you may be.

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) to prevent tooth decay. They are typically recommended for children and teenagers, as these are the years when the back teeth are most susceptible to cavities.

Yes, it’s important to treat cavities in baby teeth, even though these teeth will eventually fall out. Untreated cavities can cause pain, infection, and could potentially affect the development of the permanent teeth.

If you have sensitive teeth, it’s important to talk to your dentist. They can recommend specialized toothpaste or treatments that can help reduce sensitivity. Also, try to avoid acidic foods and drinks, as they can make sensitivity worse.

Yes, poor oral health can contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease. The mouth serves as a gateway to the body, so keeping your oral health in check is an essential part of maintaining your overall health.

When done correctly and under the supervision of a dentist, tooth whitening is a safe procedure. However, it can cause temporary tooth sensitivity and is not recommended for everyone, especially for those with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or very sensitive teeth.

A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is a preventive procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and slightly below the gumline. A “deep cleaning”, or scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic treatment for gum disease that involves removing bacteria and deposits from deep under the gums and along the root surfaces.

The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Yes, brushing too hard or too often can actually damage your teeth and gums, leading to issues like enamel wear and gum recession. It’s recommended to brush twice a day with a soft-bristle brush using gentle, circular motions.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It’s found in many toothpastes and mouthwashes, and is also added to many public water supplies.

Bad breath can be caused by a number of things, including diet, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, tobacco use, and certain medical conditions. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help keep your breath fresh. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding foods with strong odors can help prevent bad breath.

In the case of a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out or broken tooth, severe toothache, or injury to the mouth, it’s important to contact your dentist right away. Most dentists reserve time in their schedules for emergency cases, so you can get treated as soon as possible.

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once healed, a crown is attached to the implant to replace the visible part of the tooth. Implants can be a durable and natural-looking option for tooth replacement.

Symptoms of oral cancer can include a persistent sore or lump in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, changes in the voice, persistent earache, or numbness in the mouth or lips. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get checked by your dentist or doctor right away.

Wearing a mouthguard during sports can help protect your teeth from injury. Custom-fit mouthguards provided by your dentist offer the best protection, but store-bought mouthguards can also be effective. It’s also important to wear a helmet in sports where there’s a risk of a face injury.