FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The drill has not become obsolete. It will be nice someday when dentists no longer need to use rotary instruments, such as the drill, to remove decay. Modern technology is racing through the dental industry and this does include the use of both lasers and sandblasters to remove tooth decay. Although these technics are effective, they are limited to very small cavities. This works well on small children and often times eliminates the need for an anesthetic injection.

There are MANY different kinds of toothpaste on the market. The type of toothpaste that you choose is fairly insignificant. It is the PROCESS of mechanically removing food particles off the surface of the teeth that is most important. It’s the food particles that remain on the surface of your teeth that allows the process of tooth decay to begin. Most all toothpastes contain a mild abrasive which helps remove plaque.

Mixing your baking soda with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide for brushing could help you maintain excellent dental health for your entire life. The baking soda a mild abrasive, the sodium bicarbonate will neutralize the acids that cause cavities. Additionally, the sodium will also reduce periodontal inflammation improving the health of your gums. The 3% hydrogen peroxide solution will penetrate the gums killing the bacteria that lead to gum disease.

YES! Preventive maintenance and regular cleanings are a must for everyone. Getting your teeth cleaned twice a year and having small cavities filled is far less expensive than waiting for a tooth ache to come along, which may require a root canal or a crown. Visiting your dentist on a regular basis for check-ups and cleanings allows you to maintain a healthier mouth. Small cavities can be filled before they become too deep and require major operative dentistry.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone, many people are scared to death of being in a dental chair. Most of apprehension is purely psychological although some are justifiable through past dental experiences, especially if your first office visit took place during the 3 decades ago when the quality of rotary instruments and anesthetics were not nearly as good as they are today. Modern dentistry is MUCH more pleasant, a mild sedative can be prescribed for those patients who can’t get themselves to relax. Call today to make an appointment and let us know that you don’t like going to the dentist. We will go out of our way to make you feel as comfortable as possible in our calm, relaxing office.

This is a frequent problem with kids. Cildren are more likely to have new cavities is because their teeth are still developing and are therefore less mineralized than adult teeth. Your kid’s teeth will not be fully developed until their late teenage years. During this period of time you should do the following:

• Observe your child’s brushing making certain that the area where the teeth meet the gums is being brushed well enough to remove all pasty particles. This will prevent decay from forming at the gum line and maintain healthy gums.

• Having your child floss during his favorite TV program is an excellent way to begin this essential habit, or get them a kids WaterFlosser

• Sealants can be applied to all the adult back teeth and will help prevent cavities on the chewing surface.

• You should discuss a regular fluoride program with your dentist. Both in office and at home treatments are available