FAQ 

As dental health professionals we know research suggests there is a link between the oral cavity and other health issues. It is important to us that our patients have an understanding of their oral condition and what to expect out of the treatment we provide. We believe dentistry is a service to people and the patient is an integral part of the dental team.

How often should I get my teeth cleaned? 
Generally speaking patients are recommended to come in every six months for a thorough cleaning. Usually those appointments last one hour with x-rays and an evaluation by the Dentist. Sometimes it is suggested to come in more often due to the build up of Plaque. Remember to brush, floss, and rinse!!

Why should I brush and floss? 
Plaque is a colorless sticky film that blankets your teeth and creates an environment in which bacteria erode tooth enamel. This can cause gum irritation, infection in inner structures such as pulp and the roots, and in extreme cases, tooth loss. 

Are there other ways to keep my gums and teeth healthy?
A good way to help your oral health between brushing is chewing sugarless gum. This stimulates your body's production of saliva, a powerful chemical that actually neutralizes plaque formation and rinses decay-causing food particles and debris from your mouth. 

How is fluoride in the water good for teeth? 
Water fluoridation is endorsed by nearly every major health and safety-related organization in the world. Communities make it a common practice to "fluoridate" their drinking supplies in order for the general population to benefit from this inexpensive and effective preventative treatment. 

My friends tell me my breath smells. What do you suggest? 
Daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional cleanings, will normally take care of unpleasant breath. Bacterial plaque and food debris also can accumulate on the back of the tongue.

My tooth hurts and someone suggested a Root Canal? 
All teeth have between one and four root canals. Root canal therapy involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. In fact, root canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth.

How long should a crown last?
With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to eight years or longer. It is very important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration. Certain behaviors such as jaw clenching or teeth grinding significantly shorten the life of a crown. 

What should I do about my wisdom teeth?
Many people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted to avoid future serious problems. In general, the lack of the four wisdom teeth does not hamper one's ability to properly bite down, speak or eat. Next time you visit your dentist make sure you are properly evaluated if you need to have them extracted before them become impacted.

My teeth don’t look white?
More people today are choosing tooth-whitening procedures to reverse the effects of aging and abuse from food and tobacco stains. Some commercially available "whitening toothpastes" can be somewhat effective at removing stains and making teeth a few shades brighter as well. Remember to brush, floss, and rinse!!

What kind of prevention should I do to avoid Oral Cancer? 
Prevention is the key to staving off oral cancer. One of the biggest culprits is tobacco and alcohol use. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best defenses against oral cancer. Maintaining good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups, are highly recommended.