Frequently Asked Questions

Your gums are swollen, puffy, and they bleed
You have pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck area
You have existing fillings, crowns, implants, or denture
Your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold
You’re a smoker or use other tobacco products
You have difficulty chewing and/or swallowing
You have dry mouth
You have a spot or sore that does not go away
You have bad breath
You are pregnant
You are undergoing radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone replacement therapy
You have a medical condition such as heart disease or diabetes

Dental x-rays are very safe. In fact, the radiation from dental x-rays is very low. It’s about the same amount of radiation you would be exposed to in a cross-country flight. In addition, during dental x-rays, you are covered with a heavy lead apron that minimizes your exposure to radiation.

X-ray’s help the dentist see things that they may not be able to see with the naked eye. Such as decay between the teeth or under existing restorations; infections in bone; periodontal (gum) disease; abscesses and cysts; developmental abnormalities; and some type of tumors. X-rays can help detect these things early on, preventing discomfort from conditions left untreated. They aid the dentist is completing a comprehensive exam and providing a complete picture of your dental needs.

There are over one million bacteria that live inside your mouth. These bacteria live in plaque and thrive on food particles left behind. Brushing removes plaque and gets rid of some of the bacteria, but it does not remove all plaque. The toothbrush misses the small areas in between the teeth, where the plaque can eventually harden and become tartar. Tartar is something that is difficult to remove with just a toothbrush. A dentist must clean those areas with their dental instruments. Flossing removes plaque or any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth, so it prevents tartar and bacteria from building up.

A cavity is also known as tooth decay. It starts out as a small hole on your tooth that is created by certain bacteria. These bacteria feed on carbohydrates from our diet. When food particles, or plaque, builds-up, the bacteria collect in those areas and start eating away at the plaque. As they are eating away, they produce an acid that wears away the enamel (or outer surface of tooth) creating a hole, otherwise known as decay. If the decay is left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, or even tooth loss.

Sensitive teeth can happen to anyone. Teeth become sensitive when the inner layer of the tooth, called Dentin, gets exposed. Dentin is exposed when the outer protective layer, the Enamel, starts to weaken or breakdown. There are certain things that can lead to enamel breakdown, such as brushing too hard. You should be using a soft bristle tooth brush with gentle pressure to brush your teeth. Acidic foods such as lemons, grapefruits, tomato sauce, and coffee lead to enamel breakdown. Grinding your teeth also leads to enamel wear. A nightguard can help protect your teeth from grinding and breaking down your enamel. Excessive plaque build-up around your teeth can weaken the enamel leading to sensitivity and cavities. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, and floss at least once a day.

Using a fluoride mouth rinse, or a toothpaste for sensitive teeth helps. If the sensitivity is severe, your dentist may bond or seal the surfaces that are exposed.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in many foods and water. Some cities have fluoride in their water system. Drinking tap water helps make sure you are getting enough fluoride. If your city does not have fluoridated water, fluoride supplements may be necessary.

No matter how old you are, if you’re not getting enough fluoride, you are at risk of tooth decay. Fluoride mineralizes enamel, strengthening it so that it is resistant to tooth decay and acid erosion.

Bleeding gums is a sign of gingivitis, or gum disease. Many times, people stop brushing and flossing when their gums bleed. Because the gums are tender and painful, and the brushing and flossing makes it bleed, they are less likely to brush and floss. Bleeding gums is caused by bacteria found in plaque. These bacteria irritate your gums, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding. Removing this bacteria by regular brushing and flossing, is key to preventing bleeding gums.

Gingivitis is redness and inflammation of the gums, caused by plaque containing bacteria. It can cause bleeding and tenderness of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious condition known as Periodontitis. This is when the bacteria have reached the bone surrounding your teeth, causing bone loss and then loose teeth. Periodontitis is also linked to other health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and low birthweight babies. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing a dentist twice a year, helps prevent the bacteria from causing gum disease.

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Frequently Asked Questions