GENERAL FAQ

Why is visiting the dentist so important?

It is important to have regular check-ups and cleanings, in order to prevent cavities and gum disease. Preventive care helps prevent bad breath, gum disease, and helps our teeth look more attractive by preventing staining. By maintaining regular dental visits, you will be able to correct small problems that arise before they start causing pain or before they require major dental treatment.

How often should I visit the dentist?

For most people, it is recommended that you see the dentist once every 6 months for routine checkups and cleanings. If a patient has a greater risk of gum disease and/or cavities it is recommended that they visit once every 3 months. 

What causes bad breath?

It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Without brushing and flossing properly, the food stays on the teeth for a long period of time and eventually the food breaks down into bacteria. That process produces sulfur, which smells very bad. The best advice to avoid bad breath is to brush and floss regularly.

Is an electric toothbrush better than manual toothbrush?

Not necessarily. You can have excellent oral hygiene with a manual toothbrush, if you have a good technique of brushing and flossing. The key is to brush for at least 2 minutes. The benefit of an electric toothbrush is that you don’t need as good of hand dexterity and there is a built in timer to let you know when 2 minutes have passed.

Is there a lot of radiation from dental x-rays?

Dental x-rays especially digital x-rays are very low radiation. Compared to a medical CT scan, it exposes the patient to 2,800 times as much radiation as digital X-rays. Additionally, a patient will have more radiation from just taking a flight to California.

What is gum disease (AKA periodontal disease)?

It is infection of soft tissue that support your teeth. It is caused by poor brushing and flossing techniques that accumulate plaque and tartar on the teeth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the ligaments and bone surrounding the tooth, which will lead to loss of teeth. It can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings and checkups.

What is a cavity?

It is a hole or damage to the tooth that develops over time. Cavities can be caused by poor brushing, eating sugary foods and drinks, lack of fluoride, and dry mouth. If cavities are left untreated, cavities can lead to toothaches, infections and possible tooth loss. It is important for good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, in order to prevent cavities.

Is fluoride important?

Yes, it is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens the enamel. It is found in foods, water, and plants. Most people get it from fluoridated water and toothpaste.

FAMILY DENTISTRY

When will a baby’s first tooth appear?

Usually the first baby tooth appears around the 6 month mark. However, it can vary from child to child. A baby will typically show signs of teething like congestion and drooling, and may be irritable and uncomfortable.

What age should I start taking my child to see the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a child first see a dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. This initial visit will help children feel more comfortable at the dentist and ensure that the teeth are developing correctly. The dentist at this visit will review oral hygiene instructions for the child, as well as determine if there are any signs of cavities. The AAPD recommends regular dental visits every six months based on child’s needs.

What age should my child use a fluoride toothpaste?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children start using fluoride toothpaste when their first tooth appears.
Babies should use a very small amount of toothpaste, no more than a grain of rice
Children under 3 years: Brush twice a day with rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Children 3 years and older: Brush twice a day with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

ORTHODONTICS

What age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommend that  your child should be evaluated by an orthodontist between the ages of 7-8 years old. It may seem young, however, problems with skeletal abnormalities and crowding can be identified and treated early on, which helps prevent more extensive treatment later on.

What is Phase I/Phase II orthodontic treatment?

Phase I and Phase II orthodontic treatment are two phases of treatment that help create a better relationship between the teeth and jaws, improve facial symmetry, and help align teeth. 
Phase I usually start during mixed dentition and usually involves an early appliance such as a palatal expander, habit braker, or bite plate. It helps resolve any issues with jaw growth and development.
Phase II is what most people think of when you think of orthodontics. It usually begins when most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted. It usually includes braces or Invisalign depending on the severity of misalignment, crowding, or bite issues.

Why would I do I need orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, such as overbite, underbite, spacing, crowding, or bites issues. Orthodontic treatment can consist of orthopedic interventions such as palatal expanders or reverse pull headgear. Or it can consist of traditional braces or Invisalign with elastics to correct the bite. Additionally, orthodontic treatment can help stop tongue thrusting or thumb/finger sucking. It can increase the cleanability of the teeth, as well as increase the self confidence of patients! It helps achieve that beautiful smile while correcting all the issues that could potentially cause problems in the future.

What should I do when there is a loose bracket?

Call your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. It is not a true emergency but the orthodontist may want to bring you in sooner than your next scheduled appointment. If the bracket is irritating your gums or cheek, cover with orthodontic wax until you can see an orthodontist.

Is Invisalign or Braces better?

One is not necessarily better than the other. It is two different ways to achieve the same end goal, the beautiful smile! In some patients, braces may be better if they do not think they will be compliant with the Invisalign. However, in other patients, Invisalign may be a better option. It depends on the types of movements needed. Some movements are easier with braces, whereas some movements are easier with Invisalign. In general, the time of treatment usually do not vary depending on Invisalign or braces.

How often do I need to wear my retainer?

A general rule of thumb, after the removal of your braces or Invisalign, it is important to wear your retainer full time (22 hours a day) for the first 3-6 months after debond. After that time, you should wear your retainer every day for the rest of your life. This can vary depending on type of treatment and type of retainer you have.

DENTAL EMERGENCIES

What are signs and symptoms of a dental emergency?

A tooth is loose or has come out, a severe toothache that is associated with pain, pressure or sensitivity, swollen face, broken or chipped tooth. If you experience any of these, take immediate action and call your dentist as soon as possible.

What should you do if your tooth is knocked out?

Stay calm and act quickly. Find the tooth and place the tooth in moist milk, saline, or a moistened paper towel; Call your dentist to make an emergency appointment as soon as possible. The dentist may be able to replant the tooth and stabilize it with a wire.