FAQ about Oral Hygiene and Care
A: Yes, yes and yes again. If you believe you have nothing wrong, you are likely equating pain with 'wrong'. Some infections and problems have no symptoms at onset, but infection will continue to develop. Many costly procedures could be avoided just by receiving regular dental check-ups. For example, a simple filling that is left untreated, can become infected to the point of requiring a root canal treatment. A filling that would cost a maximum of $200 is now a root canal treatment at an expense of $800-$1000. Additionally, a crown (cap) will likely need to be placed at an additional $1000. Economically, it makes sense to see the dentist regularly. Regardless of where you stand economically, it is important to value your oral health as you do overall health.
A: Yipes! Please understand that as advanced a society as we are, man made solutions will never compare to our natural bodies. Our teeth serve more than to eat. Our teeth are used to create the shape of our face and aid in speech. The lower jaw bone will recede if all teeth are removed, eventually causing difficulty with an acceptable denture fit and a narrow jaw bone. It is always best to keep natural teeth unless prognosis is not good and health would be compromised.
A: There are many, many people that share your fears of the dentist. First, seek a dentist that prioritizes dental fears and communicate your concerns. This means you should mention your fears at initial contact, upon arrival to the office and to your dentist. This keeps the dental staff aware and responsive to your concerns. Dentistry has made significant advances in the accommodations of the patient. There are options available to patients like sedation dentistry. Above all, develop and maintain a relationship with your dental office. If you are comfortable and feel your needs are being met, you will likely be more relaxed in the office. My patient experiences feel much like having a guest in my home. We all benefit from this relationship.
A: First, please understand that your dental care is an important part of your overall health. Consider the expenses associated with health as necessity as well as an investment. There are several options available and listed on this website in the 'Paying for dentistry' section. With a larger treatment plan, try to keep things in perspective. Focus on conquering one health problem (each tooth) at a time and work to achieve optimal oral health one step at a time.
A: Let me ask you a question. If your hand just started bleeding when you washed it, wouldn't that be cause for concern? Bleeding is a sign something is wrong. Though your technique could be too rough and thereby cause injury, the likely cause is the body's reaction to harmful bacteria. The blood is there to do a job. Get rid of infection. People often believe they need to floss less if they are bleeding, but quite the opposite is true.
Q: My 7 year old son has a bad cavity in one of his back teeth. The dentist says it is a baby tooth, but needs a root canal and possibly a cap. If it's going to fall out anyway, why go to the expense needed to fix it?
A: First, if your son needs this treatment, don't put it off. This type treatment is indicative of a serious problem. Secondly, your son will continue to keep and use baby molar teeth for another four or five years. During this time, the adult teeth are forming and getting into their final position. Therefore, one of the most significant things about keeping baby teeth is that they serve as space savers for the adult teeth. Head back to the dentist and start getting your son healthy.
Q: I used crest white strips and now my lower teeth feel tingly and sensitive? Why? What should I do?
did it eat away at the enamel of my teeth?
A: You should be feeling relief by now, but here are some things I want you to know:
1. Whitening does not eat away enamel, only stain.
2. Wearing strips longer than directed will cause sensitivity.
3. The lower teeth are the most common for sensitivity.
4. To explain why, let's consider what happens when you take off a heavy coat. Even if you are in a warm room, you will feel cooler. The teeth have been a bit uncovered, if you will, so you feel sensitivity.
5. Teeth naturally rebuild near the nerve to handle sensitivity. This is why it goes away in a couple of days.
6. If you feel any sensation while whitening, stop. You can resume later.
7. Sensitivity toothpaste rubbed on the teeth (and left for a minute or two) can give relief until your body has done the job. The dentist also has desensitizers if you need them.
Any other whitening questions? Feel free to use our contact page to ask questions.
DISCLAIMER: This answer is meant to serve as general information and not to substitute for the advice of a dental professional.