Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Patient Education
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about dentistry and oral health issues. If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you
Q: How do you sterilize the instruments?
Can you show me how it's done?
Q: Does a woman lose calcium from
her teeth during pregnancy?
Q: Does pregnancy affect my gums?
Q: Should I brush or floss first?
Q: What is local anesthesia?
Q:Should adults be concerned about
cavities?
Q: I am currently taking medication
that my physician prescribed for me. Can this affect my dental treatment?
Q: What should I do if I have bad
breath?
Q: What may cause bad breath?
Q: What can I do to prevent bad
breath?
Q: How often should I brush?
Q: What is dental plaque?
Q: How should I brush?
Q: Are electric toothbrushes recommended?
Q: How often should I floss?
Q: How should I floss?
Q: How often should I rinse?
Q: Are amalgam (silver) fillings
safe?
Q: How often should I have a dental
exam and cleaning?
Q: Why do dentists review my medical
history?
Q: Are x-rays necessary?
Q: What is oral cancer screening?
Q: What else do dentists evaluate
in an oral examination?
Q: What is calculus?
Q: What is Teeth polishing?
Q: How can I tell if I have gingivitis
or periodontitis (gum disease)?
Q: What other factors may increase
the risk of developing periodontal disease?
Q: Which Signs and Symptoms of
Periodontal Disease are there?
Q: Why is it important to use
dental floss?
Q: How can cosmetic dentistry
help improve the appearance of my smile?
Q: What is teeth whitening?
Q: What is a composite filling?
Q: What are porcelain crowns?
Q: What is a dental implant?
Q: What are porcelain veneers
and how can they improve my smile?
Q: What are indications of veneers?
Q: How long does the veneer procedure
takes?
Q: What can I do about stained
or discolored teeth?
Q: How do you sterilize the instruments?
Can you show me how it's done?
Dental instruments are cleaned and sterilized at very high temperatures
after each time they are used on a patient. Recommended sterilization
methods include: an autoclave (steam under pressure), a dry heat oven,
or chemical vapor (commonly called a chemiclave). The sterilization
equipment usually is not in the treatment room, but if you'd like to
see how and where it's done, ask the dental staff to show you.
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Q: Does a woman lose calcium from her
teeth during pregnancy?
It is a myth that calcium is lost from the mothers teeth during pregnancy.
The calcium your baby needs is provided by your diet, not by your teeth.
If dietary calcium is inadequate, however, your body will provide this
mineral from stores in your bones. An adequate intake of dairy products
the primary source of calcium or the supplements your obstetrician may
recommend will help ensure that you get all the calcium you need during
your pregnancy.
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Q: Does pregnancy affect my gums?
During pregnancy, your body's hormone levels rise considerably. Gingivitis,
especially common during the second to eighth months of pregnancy, may
cause red, puffy or tender gums that tend to bleed when you brush. This
sensitivity is an exaggerated response to plaque and is caused by an
increased level of progesterone in your system. Your dentist may recommend
more frequent cleanings during your second trimester or early third
trimester to help you avoid problems.
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Q: Should I brush or floss first?
The sequence makes no difference as long as you do a thorough job. Choose
a toothbrush that feels comfortable in your hand and in your mouth,
and use it twice a day. While tooth brushing removes plaque from tooth
surfaces, it can't do the entire job of removing plaque. Cleaning between
the teeth daily with floss or other interdental cleaners removes debris
from between the teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach.
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Q: What is local anesthesia?
Topical anesthetics are applied to mouth tissues with a swab to prevent
pain on the surface level. Your dentist may use a topical anesthetic
to numb an area in preparation for administering an injectable local
anesthetic. Topical anesthetics also may be used to soothe painful mouth
sores. Injectable local anesthetics, such as Novocain, prevent pain
in a specific area of your mouth during treatment by blocking the nerves
that sense or transmit pain and numbing mouth tissues. They cause the
temporary numbness often referred to as a "fat lip" feeling. Injectable
anesthetics may be used in such procedures as filling cavities, preparing
teeth for crowns or treating periodontal (gum) disease.
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Q:Should adults be concerned about cavities?
Tooth decay is not just a children problem. Adults of all ages can have
cavities, too. The causes for tooth decay are the same for everyone,
regardless of age. Decay results when the bacteria in plaque feed on
the carbohydrates (sugar and starch) in our diet to produce acids that
can cause cavities.
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Q: I am currently taking medication that my physician prescribed for me. Can this affect my dental treatment?
When your dentist asks for your medical history, be sure to provide
complete, up-to-date information on your health. Inform your dentist
if you have experienced recent hospitalization or surgery, or if you
have recently been ill. Also tell the dentist the names, doses and frequency
of any medications you are taking whether prescription or over-the-counter
products and the name of your physician. Inform the dentist of any changes
in your health or medications. This information will help the dentist
to select the most safe and effective method of treatment for you.
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Q: What should I do if I have bad breath?
Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition.
Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has
it from time to time, especially in the morning. There are various reasons
one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is
due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the
tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced
bad breath by as much as 70 percent.
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Q: What may cause bad breath?
Morning time: Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced
cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath. Certain
foods Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter
the blood stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are
exhaled. Poor oral hygiene habits: Food particles remaining in the mouth
promote bacterial growth. Periodontal (gum) disease Colonies of bacteria
and food debris residing under inflamed gums. Dental cavities and improperly
fitted dental appliances May also contribute to bad breath. Dry mouth
(Xerostomia) May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems,
or continuous mouth breathing. Tobacco products: Dry the mouth, causing
bad breath. Dieting Certain chemicals called ketones are released in
the breath as the body burns fat. Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals
Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria
away. Certain medical conditions and illnesses Diabetes, liver and kidney
problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several
conditions that may contribute to bad breath.
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Q: What can I do to prevent bad breath?
Practice good oral hygiene Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved
fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris
and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or
use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace
your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable
bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in
the morning. See your dentist regularly Get a check-up and cleaning
at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease,
your dentist will recommend more frequent visits. Stop smoking/chewing
tobacco: Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.
Drink water frequently Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash
away bacteria. Use mouthwash/rinses: Some over-the-counter products only
provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your
dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath,
but also kill the germs that cause the problem. In most cases, your
dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that
your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may
refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an
appropriate treatment plan.
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Q: How often should I brush?
Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause
dental disease. Toothbrushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day
(especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft
bristle brush and toothpaste.
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Q: What is dental plaque?
Dental plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks
to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles
into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it
turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed,
they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.
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Q: How should I brush?
Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular
motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums. Brush
the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth. Use the tip of
the brush head to clean the inside front teeth. Brush your tongue to
remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
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Q: Are electric toothbrushes recommended?
Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and
can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric
brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several
teeth at a time.
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Q: How often should I floss?
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under
the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts
plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth,
and bone.
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Q: How should I floss?
Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your
middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert
the floss between teeth using a sawing motion. Curve the floss into
a "C" shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the
floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth. Floss holders are
recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
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Q: How often should I rinse?
It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also
after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter
product for rinsing, it's a good idea to consult with your dentist or
dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
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Q: Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
Over the years there has been some concern as to the safety of amalgam
(silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and
zinc, bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal
to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy is due to claims
that the exposure to the vapor and minute particles from the mercury
can cause a variety of health problems. According to the American Dental
Association (ADA), up to 76% of dentists use silver containing mercury
to fill teeth. The ADA also states that silver fillings are safe and
that studies have failed to find any link between silver containing
mercury and any medical disorder. Although studies indicate that there
are no measurable health risks to patients who have silver fillings,
we do know that mercury is a toxic material when we are exposed at high,
unsafe levels. However, with respect to amalgam fillings, the ADA maintains
that when the mercury combines with the other components of the filling,
it becomes an inactive substance that is safe. There are numerous options
to silver fillings, including composite (tooth-colored), porcelain,
and gold fillings. We encourage you to discuss these options with your
dentist so you can determine which is the best option for you.
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Q: How often should I have a dental exam
and cleaning?
You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year,
though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent
visits. Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing
dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At
these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally,
there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect,
prevent, and maintain your dental health.
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Q: Why do dentists review my medical
history?
Medical history review: Knowing the status of any current medical conditions,
new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your over all health
and also your dental health.
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Q: Are x-rays necessary?
Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs) are essential for detection
of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.X-rays also help determine tooth
and root positions.
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Q: What is oral cancer screening?
During this procedure the dentist check the face, neck, lips, tongue,
throat, tissues, and gums for any sings of oral cancer.
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Q: What else do dentists evaluate in
an oral examination?
Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for
any signs of periodontal disease. Examination of tooth decay: All tooth
surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns,
etc.
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Q: What is calculus?
Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for sometime
and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above
and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental
instruments.
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Q: What is Teeth polishing?
Is the removal of stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during
toothbrushing and scaling.
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Q: How can I tell if I have gingivitis
or periodontitis (gum disease)?
Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don't know it!
Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless
in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort,
it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms.
Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very
important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist. Periodontal
disease begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food
debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce
toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. Brushing
and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left
behind to do its damage.
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Q: What other factors may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease?
Smoking or chewing tobacco: Tobacco users are more likely than nonusers
to form plaque and tartar on their teeth. Certain tooth or appliance
conditions Bridges that no longer fit properly, crowded teeth, or defective
fillings that may trap plaque and bacteria. Many medications Steroids,
cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure meds, oral contraceptives. Some
medications have side affects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry
and plaque easier to adhere to the teeth and gums. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives,
and puberty can cause changes in hormone levels, causing gum tissue
to become more sensitive to bacteria toxins. Systemic diseases Diabetes,
blood cell disorders, HIV / AIDS, etc. Genetics may play role Some patients
may be predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontitis. Patients
with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention
to their gums.
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Q: Which Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal
Disease are there?
Red and puffy gums: Gums should never be red or swollen. Bleeding gums:
Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental
floss. Persistent bad breath: Caused by bacteria in the mouth. New spacing
between teeth caused by bone loss. Loose teeth: Also caused by bone loss
or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the
bone). Pus around the teeth and gums: Sign that there is an infection
present. Receding gums: Loss of gum around a tooth. Tenderness or Discomfort:
Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth. Good oral
hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce
your risk of developing periodontal disease.
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Q: Why is it important to use dental
floss?
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under
the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts
plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth,
and bone.
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Q: How can cosmetic dentistry help improve
the appearance of my smile?
If you're feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth, or just
want to improve your smile, cosmetic dental treatments may be the answer
to a more beautiful, confident smile. There are many cosmetic dental
procedures available to improve your teeth and enhance your smile. Depending
on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your
smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full mouth
make-over. Ask your dentist how you can improve the health and beauty
of your smile with cosmetic dentistry.
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Q: What is teeth whitening?
Teeth Whitening: Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or
discolored by age, food, drink, and smoking. Teeth darkened as a result
of injury or taking certain medications can also be bleached, but the
effectiveness depends on the degree of staining present.
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Q: What is a composite filling?
Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings: Also known as "bonding", composite
fillings are now widely used instead of amalgam (silver) fillings to
repair teeth with cavities, and also to replace old defective fillings.
Tooth-colored fillings are also used to repair chipped, broken, or discolored
teeth. This type of filling is also very useful to fill in gaps and
to protect sensitive, exposed root surfaces caused by gum recession.
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Q: What are porcelain crowns?
Porcelain Crowns (caps): A crown is a tooth-colored, custom-made covering
that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape
and size. Crowns protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored
with fillings or other types of restorations. They are ideal for teeth
that have large, fractured or broken fillings and also for those that
are badly decayed.
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Q: What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are artificial roots that are surgically placed into
the jaw to replace one or more missing teeth. Porcelain crowns, bridges,
and dentures can be made specifically to fit and attach to implants,
giving a patient a strong, stable, and durable solution to removable
dental appliances.
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Q: What are porcelain veneers and how
can they improve my smile?
Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that
are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very
durable and will not stain, making them a very popular solution for
those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile.
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Q: What are indications of veneers?
Veneers may be used to restore or correct the following dental conditions:
Severely discolored or stained teeth, unwanted or uneven spaces, worn
or chipped teeth, slight tooth crowding, misshapen teeth, teeth that are
too small or large.
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Q: How long does the veneer procedure
takes?
Getting veneers usually requires two visits. Veneers are created from
an impression (mold) of your teeth that is then sent to a professional
dental laboratory where each veneer is custom-made (for shape and color)
for your individual smile.
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Q: What can I do about stained or discolored
teeth?
Since teeth whitening has now become the number one aesthetic concern
of many patients, there are many products and methods available to achieve
a brighter smile. Professional teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple,
non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth
enamel, and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Over-the-counter
products are also available, but they are much less effective than professional
treatments and may not be approved by the American Dental Association
(ADA). It's important to have your teeth evaluated by your dentist to
determine if you're a good candidate for bleaching. Occasionally, tetracycline
and fluorosis stains are difficult to bleach and your dentist may offer
other options, such as veneers or crowns to cover up such stains. Since
teeth whitening is not permanent, a touch-up may be needed every several
years to keep your smile looking bright.
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