Frequently Asked Questions…
Every day in our office we speak with our patients to answer any questions that they may have regarding the health and maintenance of their oral condition.
1.) Why is it important that I visit my dentist every 6 months?
We recommend that patients visit our office at least twice each year to ensure their optimal oral health and to help avoid serious and costly future problems. In addition to cleaning and polishing all the visible and hidden surfaces of your teeth, we also check for many potential problems. Tooth decay, oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease are just a few examples of problems that can have serious consequences if left undetected. In certain cases, we may even recommend 3 or 4 visits per year in order to properly treat conditions that require more regular attention.
2.) How can I help myself to prevent bad breath?
According to recent studies, almost half the population of adults in North America suffers at least occasionally from bad breath (halitosis). The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria in the mouth and on the back of the tongue. These bacteria produce a volatile sulfur compound, which in turn produces a smell similar to “rotten eggs”. (Other non-dental causes of halitosis include certain foods, smoking, alcohol, hormonal changes or simply being hungry.)
If the halitosis is of oral origin, the treatment usually begins with ensuring meticulous hygiene of the mouth. Your dentist or dental hygienist will check for gum disease and, if necessary, prepare a detailed treatment plan. Tongue scraping should also become an important part of daily home care and part of your regular tooth brushing routine.
3.) How is a mouth guard from my dentist different from one I buy at a sporting goods store?
High-speed collisions that occur during the play of sports like hockey, football, soccer and basketball can cause serious tooth damage. A professionally fitted mouth-guard is the best defense for any athlete against this. The mouth guards provided in our office are custom-made to perfectly fit the wearer’s teeth which can result in a more comfortable and secure fit. In addition, we use a heavier mouth guard material selected based upon each patient’s individual needs. The boil and bite mouth-guards that you purchase in retail stores simply can not provide the same level of protection.
4.) Am I a candidate for implants?
Generally, candidates for dental implants should be in good health, have healthy gums, good oral habits for aftercare and a healthy jawbone to support the implants. Dental implants can adversely be affected by some chronic diseases, existing dental problems, diabetes, bone disorders, smoking and alcohol. Your dentist can evaluate your situation to determine if dental implants are the best option for you.
5.) Can I replace an old crown that looks unnatural?
Many of our patients have asked us about replacing very old crowns that have deteriorated or crowns that do not blend well with their natural teeth.
One of our skilled dentists will ensure that the shade is matched and the crown is shaped precisely for a very natural, indistinguishable appearance that it also functional.
6). What are the benefits of adult orthodontic treatment?
Did you know that 25% of orthodontic patients today are adults?
Orthodontic treatment can close gaps in teeth and correct crooked, crowded or protruding teeth. It greatly enhances the appearance of your smile and can also address the oral health problems that result from a poor bite and crowded teeth.
Standard braces are the most recognized orthodontic treatment method. Braces are traditionally made of metal, but can also be made from clear or tooth-colored materials.
Invisalign offers an alternative to braces. It straightens teeth more comfortably and in a shorter time than braces using clear, removable aligners that are custom-fitted to your teeth. Invisalign treatment is usually completed in less than one year.
Orthodontic treatment is not just for teens. At any stage of life, you can correct the alignment of your teeth and attain the smile you have always wanted. Talk to us to learn more.
7). Is it important to have an oral infection treated?
Sometimes the body’s immune system will fight and heal infections on its own, but often it needs some help. When it comes to oral infections such as tooth and gum infections, only your dentist can make that call. This is why it is so important to have infections and abscesses examined by a dentist.
Oral infections are a serious health matter. Symptoms include tooth, gum, and jaw pain, lumps or pus-filled abscesses, and weeping or bleeding gums. Left untreated, they can affect your overall health.
Your dentist can diagnose an infection during an oral examination. They will feel your gums, gently tap your teeth, and take x-rays to determine the extent of the infection and whether it has spread.
If your dentist feels the infection is harmful, or your body is not fighting it effectively, they may prescribe antibiotics. Your dentist will also want to treat the underlying cause of an oral infection to prevent it from reoccurring in the future. Causes may include tooth decay, periodontal, or gum disease, tooth cracks, and weakened fillings.
Don’t ignore the signs of oral infection. Practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis, and have your mouth and teeth examined by a dentist.
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