FAQ

Plan on 1 to 1.5 hours for the your first visit to our office.

Many people do not see a dentist on a regular basis and only go when they have a problem. While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more. This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process. An example is tooth decay aka a cavity.We commonly hear, “Nothing hurts… I don’t have any problems.”Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth. It is not uncommon to see a patient with a very large cavity whom has never experienced symptoms. The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms.The earlier it is detected the less invasive the procedure.Usually once symptoms are present and persistent the tooth needs much more than your standard filling.

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:

• small areas of decay between the teeth, which typically can not been detected orally, can be seen on an x-ray
• recurring decay under an existing restorations (fillings)
• infections in the bone
• periodontal (gum) disease
• abscesses or cysts
• developmental abnormalities
• some types of tumors

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money. X-rays can detect issues to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, X-rays may even help save your life. Dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions. There are many benefits to having X-rays taken. Any additional questions or concerns should be discussed with your dentist.

Always spend two to three minutes brushing. Brushing gets rid of the bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque so don’t brush to hard and use a soft tooth brush. Floss at least once a day as this is the only way to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth. Sugar can provide a constant supply for the bacteria to your mouth.Really try and pay attention to the amount of sugar in the drinks you consume throughout the day.Also try to minimize the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and brush your teeth afterwards. If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water – which can help to remove food from your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Chewing deskulates the flow of your saliva which acts as a natural plaque-fighting substance.First and foremost don’t forget your regular dental visits. Great dental habits will go a long way toward no-cavity’s!

Often people respond to bleeding gums with the wrong method of treatment. Usually, gums that bleed are a symptom of the onset of periodontal disease or gingivitis. But people often stop brushing as frequently and effectively because it may be painful or it may cause the gums to bleed again. However, when gums are inflamed, brushing could help reduce the inflammation. More importantly, you should see your dentist to have a periodontal screening and recording performed in order to determine the level of disease present and the best treatment course to pursue.It is also worth noting that chronic dental pain and discomfort are obvious signs of a problem. Over-the-counter drugs may provide some temporary relief but these medications usually only mask the existence of a problem.

When you are asleep, the production of saliva in your mouth decreases. Since your saliva is the mouth’s natural mouthwash, most people experience morning breath. Bacteria found on teeth and on the taste buds of the tongue, break down the food particles, which produce sulfur compounds. It is these sulfur compounds which give our breath a bad odor. Chronic, long-term mouth odor can be a sign of a more serious situation. See your dentist if this is a concern.