TOP 5 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTISTRY

1. HOW OFTEN DO I ACTUALLY NEED TO VISIT THE DENTIST?

Most people need to visit their dentist for a regular hygiene visit twice a year, or once every six months. There are exceptions to this rule, however. If you have gum disease, or a history of gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. Another reason you may need to see the dentist more frequently is if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. The bottom line is that you should see the Dentist twice a year and you need to comply if it is recommended that you make those visits more frequent.

 2. HOW SAFE ARE DENTAL X-RAYS?

Dental x-rays are very safe. In our office we  use digital X-rays . While traditional X-rays are considered safe, digital X-rays produce 80% less radiation than traditional. This means it is highly unlikely you would develop issues from occasional traditional radiation exposure, but it is even less likely with the process used in digital X-rays.

3. WHAT EXACTLY IS A CAVITY?

 A cavity is simply a small hole in the tooth that develops as a result of tooth decay. In other words, decay eats away at the tooth and results in a void space or "hole" that disrupts the structure of the tooth. It’s important to get cavities repaired because they will continue to grow larger with time and may end up with and extraction or root canal .

4. HOW LONG WILL MY DENTAL RESTORATION LAST?

A common misconception is that dental restorations last forever but unfortunately this is rarely true. With time dental restorations may break down or become loose, allowing decay to re-enter the area around the restoration and become problematic. Maintain great oral hygiene and regular dental visits will keep those restorations in great condition for as long as possible.

5. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO WHITEN MY TEETH?Patients often ask us about whitening their teeth all the time. It’s a tough question because there is no universal answer that applies for everyone. The fastest and most effective way to whiten teeth is typically an in-office professional whitening procedure. However, depending how dramatic you need your results to be, it may be recommended the take home kit .  Professional do's and don'ts will be discussed to keep your teeth its whitest.