Dental FAQs

• How often do I need to brush/floss?
  Generally it is recommended to brush and floss after each meal or twice a day.
• How often do I need to visit the dentist?
  This may vary for each individual, but you should visit once or twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.
• When is a good time to remove my wisdom teeth?
  It is generally recommended that wisdom teeth be removed between the ages of 18 and 25, but this is not always the case. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Your dentist can determine this after an examination.
• What is the proper way to brush?
  STEP 1: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, clean the outer surfaces of each tooth. Angle the brush along the other gum line. Gently brush back and forth.
  STEP 2: Brush in the inside surfaces of each tooth, where plaque may accumulate most. Brush gently back and forth. Use the tip of the brush to clean behind each front tooth, both top and bottom. Then, brush the chewing surface of each tooth, gently brushing back and forth.
• What is the proper way to floss?
  
  • Use about 18" of floss, leaving an inch or two to work with.
  • Gently follow the curves of your teeth.
  • Be sure to clean beneath the gumline, but avoid snapping the floss on the gums.
• What should I do about tooth decay and older fillings?
  Because decay can lead to serious problems, it's important to see a dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. Your dentist or hygienist is trained to spot early signs of decay. Changes that occur with aging make cavities an adult problem, too. Receding gums, and an increased rate of gum disease, can expose tooth roots to plaque. Softer than enamel, tooth roots are susceptible to decay and are more sensitive to touch and to hot and cold. It's not uncommon for people over the age of 50 to experience tooth root decay.
• What causes tooth sensitivity?
  If you've ever felt pain in your teeth after drinking or eating hot or cold food and drinks, you've had tooth sensitivity. One out of every four adults has had tooth sensitivity, often coming and going over time. Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain that comes from a wearing away of the tooth's surface or gums. When heat, cold or pressure touches these channels, you may feel pain. Ignoring your sensitive teeth can lead to other more serious oral health problems. This is especially true if the pain causes you to brush poorly, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• What causes tooth grinding?
  Do your jaw muscles feel tired in the morning? You may be grinding your teeth at night (a medical condition called bruxism) or you may be clenching your teeth, which can be just as harmful. Eventually, your teeth may be worn down and destroyed. Without treatment, crowns (caps), bridges, implants and dentures are often needed to repair or replace worn and damaged teeth.
• What is dry mouth?
  Some adults develop a condition called dry mouth, which results when there is insufficient saliva. Without saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive cavities can form. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses. In some cases, a dentist may prescribe a medication that helps produce saliva and may suggest fluoride products to help prevent rapidly advancing tooth decay.
• What causes bad breath?
  You may occasionally experience bad breath. It can be caused by certain foods, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, tobacco products or a medical disorder. Sometimes a sinus infection, postnasal drip or other respiratory tract infections can cause bad breath. If bad breath persists, your dentist may determine whether it's caused by a dental condition.
• What is Plaque?
  Plaque is the accumulation of bacteria, microorganisms and their products which sticks to the tooth surfaces. Dental plaque is soft and easily removed by brushing and flossing the teeth. Accumulation of plaque can lead to gum disease (gingivitis), periodontal disease and tooth decay.
• What is Calculus (Tartar)?
  Calculus is dental plaque that has mineralized. Calculus can form when plaque is not removed from the tooth surfaces. Calculus can form above or below the gum line. The bacteria that stick to calculus can cause gum disease (gingivitis) or periodontal disease. Calculus cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. A dentist checks for calculus formation when you visit the dental office. It is removed with special instruments designed to adapt to the tooth surface affected without causing trauma to the soft gum.
• What is gingivitis?
  Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. Some common features associated with gingivitis are red and swollen gums and the presence of bleeding while brushing and flossing. The cause of gingivitis is the bacteria in dental plaque. This disease is reversible with good oral hygiene practices.
• What is Periodontal Disease?
  Periodontal disease affects the periodontium ( the supporting structures of Gums, periodontal ligaments & bone around the tooth). The cause of this disease is multi-factorial but the presence of bacteria in plaque certainly plays a major role. The supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. This can mean that part of the bone that supports the teeth or the ligaments that hold the teeth securely in place are destroyed. This disease process is generally not reversible and may require treatment from a dental professional specializing in periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can develop as a result of poor daily plaque control (e.g. brushing and flossing) It is wise to visit your dentist regularly in order to detect early stages of the disease and to prevent further damage.
• What is a Cavity?
  A cavity is the destruction of the tooth enamel, dentin, cementum and may involve the tooth pulp.
• How does a Cavity Form?
  The formation of a cavity is due to many factors. For example, the tooth itself plays a role (how strong it is); the mouth's ability to cleanse itself ( your flow of saliva); diet (frequency and selection of sugary foods); the bacteria in your mouth (good or bad) and the length of time the tooth is under attack by the bacteria in your mouth.
  Heredity might play a major role in how susceptible your are to the formation of a cavity
  
  • Saliva: has a protective function in the mouth
  • Diet: a well balanced diet from each of the four major food groups is essential for your oral health, as well as, your overall health
  • Time: the actual amount of sugar eaten in one sitting is not as important as when and how often you choose a sugar containing food.
  • Bacteria: the mouth harbors many types of bacteria that are considered to be normal in the human mouth
  • Fluoride: fluoride provides many benefits. It is found in many products such as toothpaste, mouth rinse, fluoridated drinking water and periodic topical fluoride treatments applied by your dentist.