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Our most fequently asked questions
Although a manual toothbrush will work when used for two minutes twice daily, an electric toothbrush has been shown to clean teeth better.
Scientists found that people who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush.
The ADA recommends using a fluoridated toothpaste. If you have cold sensitivity you should try a toothpaste like Sensodyne. If your sensitivity does not decrease within two weeks, you should consult your dentist.
According to some studies - fluoride helps reduce the incidence of tooth decay by 40-60%. The ADA does recommend using a fluoridated toothpaste which helps remineralize weakened enamel.
Yes! A dental radiograph gives your dentist a picture of your hard tissues (teeth and bones) and the soft tissues that surround your teeth and jawbones. These pictures will help your dentist see caries (tooth decay) that develops between the teeth or under restorations (fillings); diseases in the bone; periodontal (gum) disease; infections that develop under your gums; and some types of tumors.
That’s OK. The industry is coming out with alternatives to fluoride. Options for people who choose a fluoride free lifestyle are toothpastes with hydroxyapatite such as Risewells toothpaste and mouth rinse.
Since decay can happen on all sides of a tooth and a toothbrush cannot reach in between your teeth, the short answer is, yes. You could also use a floss pick, Waterpik, or Interdental brush.
Yes, it helps reduce the bacterial load and also administer more fluoride to the tooth surface. Try an alcohol free mouth rinse to keep your mouth from drying out.
Decay is removed from the tooth by way of handpieces and/or hand instruments. Once the tooth is cleaned we use products that will help the new filling bond to the tooth, the filling is then placed and a light is used to harden the composite restoration. Before we are finished our goal is to make sure your teeth can come together comfortably.
Bleeding gums, hot, cold or chewing sensitivity, worn down teeth, and sore jaws are all examples of early dental trouble.
Most dental problems can be caught and treated before they become an actual issue for the patient. Signs almost always precede symptoms which is why it is important to have an exam. If left untreated, areas of decay or large cracks can get larger and need crowns, root canal therapy, or even end in tooth loss.
One way is teeth break down, the second is the supporting tissue breaks down. How does this happen? It can be bacterial in nature, ie causing cavities or periodontal disease, or it can be from a stressful load on the teeth.