Questions

Which type of toothbrush should I use?

A soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended because medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and contribute to recession of the gums, and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. It's unnecessary to "scrub" the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings.

[back to top]

How often should I replace my toothbrush?

Toothbrushes should be replaced about every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become worn or frayed.

[back to top]

Is one toothpaste better than others?

Generally, no. However, it's advisable to use a fluoride containing toothpaste to decrease the incidence of dental decay. We recommend our patients use what tastes good to them as long as it contains fluoride.

[back to top]

How often should I floss?

Flossing of the teeth once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy.

[back to top]

At what age should my child begin to see a dentist?

We recommend that children be seen by age three. We encourage family visits, and you are welcome to bring children when visiting Dental Perfections.

[back to top]

What should I do if I chip a tooth?

If part of a tooth breaks off, keep the piece so your dentist can possibly reuse it during bonding repair.

[back to top]

What should I do if I have a tooth knocked out?

Keep the tooth! Your dentist may be able to replace the tooth. Rinse the tooth in cold water and seek dental care as soon as possible. It is best to put the tooth back into it's socket if possible until you see your dentist.

[back to top]

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They allow us to change the color, shape, and structure of your teeth. They are extremely durable, virtually painless to put in, easy to maintain, and can give you a new smile or enhance the one you have now.

[back to top]

What's the difference between a "crown" and a "cap"?

These are restorations to repair a severely broken tooth by covering all or most of the tooth after removing old fillings, fractured tooth structure, and all decay. The restoration material is made of gold, porcelain, composites, or even stainless steel. Dentists refer to all of these restorations as "crowns". However, patients often refer to the tooth-colored ones as "caps" and the gold or stainless steel ones as "crowns".

[back to top]

What's the difference between a "bridge" and a "partial denture"?

Both bridges and partial dentures replace missing teeth. A bridge is permanently attached to abutment teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and is easily removed by the patient. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures.

[back to top]

What about "silver" fillings versus "white" fillings?

Although the U.S. Public Health Service issued a report in 1993 stating there is no health reason not to use amalgam (silver fillings), more patients today are requesting "white" or tooth-colored composite fillings. Sometimes "white" fillings are preferable because they "bond" better to the tooth structure and therefore help strengthen a tooth weakened by decay. "White" fillings are also usually less sensitive to temperature, and they also look better. However, "white" fillings cannot be used in every situation, and if a tooth is very badly broken-down, a crown will usually be necessary and provide better overall satisfaction for the patient.

[back to top]

Do I need to have a root canal just because I have to have a crown?

No. While most teeth which have had root canal treatments do need crowns to strengthen the teeth and to return the teeth to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal.

[back to top]