Dental Health - Frequently Asked Questions
What is air abrasion?
Instead on conventional drilling, air abrasion is a process
of using pressurized air with a non-toxic, fine abrasive powder
to prepare a tooth cavity. Air abrasion is faster and even quieter
than a drill. Anesthetic is not required and several teeth can
be treated in a single visit. Air abrasion is only used on smaller
cavities. Composites, or tooth-colored fillings can then be used to fill the
preparations.
What causes bad breath?
If you don't brush and floss your teeth daily, food will collect
between the gums, teeth and on your tongue. These
particles then decompose, leaving an extremely unpleasant odor.
Bad breath might also be an indication that something
more serious is happening with your health.
How often should I visit my dentist?
Two times a year is usually enough for most persons,
though your dentist, the hygienist and yourself should together
determine what is uniquely best for you personally.
Regular checkups are recommended to accurately assess
the condition of your teeth and gums to prevent
any problems. Regular visits help you maintain a lifetime
of optimum dental health and keep an attractive smile.
How do I get a whiter smile?
There are a variety of products and procedures available to help
you whiten your smile. Start by speaking with our
dentist to determine whether whitening procedures
would be effective for you.
What symptoms indicate gum disease?
- swollen, red or overly tender gums
- gums that start bleeding when you brush them
- gums which have pulled away from your teeth
- persistent bad breath that will not go away
- noticing pus on the gums between teeth
- loosened, unstable teeth
- changes to your bite (how your teeth come together)
- a change to how partial dentures fit
Is gum disease preventable?
Yes -- you can help prevent gum (periodontal) disease by:
• Brushing teeth rigorously at least twice every day.
• Flossing between teeth after every meal and before bedtime.
• Eating balanced meals, reducing snacks & regular dentist visits.
• Brushing teeth rigorously at least twice every day.
• Flossing between teeth after every meal and before bedtime.
• Eating balanced meals, reducing snacks & regular dentist visits.
An accident knocked a tooth out - what can I do?
If the tooth got dirty, hold it by the top crown (not by the
root) and carefully rinse it off. Don't scrub or remove any
tissue fragments attached. If possible, gently insert the tooth
back into its socket and hold it there. Otherwise, put the tooth
in a cup of dairy milk and call your dentist immediately. Your
dentist will instruct you to quickly bring the detached tooth with you
to his office.
Why do I need x-rays?
X-rays are very useful diagnostic tools -- X-rays can reveal:
• the positions of your teeth
• teeth that don't emerge above gum-line (impacted)
• presence of dental decay and its extent
• any damage to bones
• a tooth abscess
• a fractured jaw
• malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth
• any abnormalities of teeth or jaw bone
• the positions of your teeth
• teeth that don't emerge above gum-line (impacted)
• presence of dental decay and its extent
• any damage to bones
• a tooth abscess
• a fractured jaw
• malocclusion, or misalignment of teeth
• any abnormalities of teeth or jaw bone