FAQ's

Home FAQ's

How often do I actually need to visit the dentist?

You should get an exam once every 6 months, or more often if your dentist recommends it.

Are dental X-rays safe and needed?

Dental x-rays are very safe since we use digital technology exclusively, thus reducing the exposure of radiation while increasing the diagnostic proficiency

What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?

Use a soft toothbrush with a small head, either powered or manual You have to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Toothpaste is preferred to contain Fluoride

When do I have to visit the dentist immediately?

If you have any of the signs below:

  • Mouth sores
  • Jaw pain
  • Redness
  • Swollen face or gums
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Broken teeth
  • Dry mouth
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
Do I really need to floss?

Yes! Flossing is as essential as brushing since it helps remove plaque from the areas between your teeth where the toothbrush can't reach which prevents gum disease and cavities.
Inter-dental brushes can also be used

Does a rinse or mouthwash replace the tooth brush?

Mouthwashes help in cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath when used with regular brushing and flossing but not instead of daily cleanings

Do teeth need fluoride?

Fluoride helps make teeth strong and prevents decay.

What are sealants?

Sealants protect against cavities that can form on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, mainly for Kids from about 6 to 12 years. Adults can get sealants as well to protect teeth that don't have fillings. It’s a painless procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.

How is smoking bad for teeth and gums?

The most harmful effect of tobacco is the development of oral cancer. Othersinclude tooth stains, delayed healing of oral wounds, increased severity of gum disease and bad breath.

How can I improve the cosmetic features of my smile

We offer numerous options such as bleaching, veneers, lumineers and crowns which allow us to change the shape, color and size of teeth according to the patient’s preference

What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?

Depending on the location of the missing tooth, we would most likely recommend either a dental implant, a bridge, or a partial denture.
Orthodontics can sometimes be a solution as well

When will my child get their first tooth?

Average time is between five and seven months of age, there is a wide range before and after this that can still be considered “normal”, as early as one month or as late as one-and-a-half years old. Generally the lower front teeth come in first, and girls’ teeth typically erupt earlier than boys.

When should I take my child to the dentist for their first check-up?

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist between 6-9 months for a visual examination (as soon as teeth start to erupt), or no later than their first birthday.

My child’s baby teeth have cavities. Should they be filled?

If baby teeth become diseased or decayed it can lead to pain, infection and difficulty to eat a well-balanced meal. If the baby teeth become decayed or are taken out too early, the permanent teeth often become crowded and will likely need braces to straighten in the future.

What causes bad breath and how to treat it?

While bad breath (or “halitosis”) can be linked to numerous systemic diseases, however, the majority originates in the mouth. It can be due to bad oral hygiene, multiple decayed teeth, defective crowns and bridges, dry mouth, tobacco, medications, infections and food debris. Treating oral infections, filling decayed teeth, maintaining oral hygiene, brushing the tongue, proper hydration and changing oral habits will help improve the condition.
For a fresher breath, mouthwash can be used.

How long will my dental restoration last?

Dental restorations don’t last forever,they may break down, become loose, shrink, or expand allowing decay to enter the area around the restoration and become problematic. Maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to keep those restorations in great condition for as long as possible.

How often do I need to clean my teeth in the clinic?

Professional cleaning once every six-months serves to keep your mouth healthy and clean, and allows potential problems to be found and diagnosed earlier.

My dentist says I have a cavity and I need a filling. But why doesn’t my tooth hurt?

Most dental problems don’t have any symptoms until they reach more advanced stages, so don’t wait for things to hurt! It is best to get a thorough dental exam, diagnose and treat problems early. Waiting often makes problems more difficult and more expensive to fix.

Why do my gums bleed?

The main cause of bleeding gums is the buildup of plaque at the gum line. It can be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing and flossing twice a day.

What happens if a woman has a dental problem when she is pregnant?

Preventive dental cleanings and annual exams during pregnancy are not only safe, but are recommended to avoid oral infections such as gum disease, which has been linked to preterm birth.

Are there any dental problems associated with diabetes?

Yes, diabetes can affect oral health because:
You may have less saliva causing your mouth to feel dry, susceptible to infectionsand your teeth at a higher risk of cavities. Gums may become inflamed and bleed often. You may have problems tasting food. You may experience delayed wound healing.
For children with diabetes, teeth may erupt earlier.

How do I brush my teeth? How long should I brush?

You should brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Choose a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth and place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Gently move the brush back and forth in short, tooth-wide strokes. Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

Bruxism

Bruxism, commonly known as "tooth grinding," is the process of clenching together and the grinding of the upper and lower teeth. During sleep, the biting force of clenched jaws can be up to six times greater than during waking hours.

Bruxism can cause complications over the years:

  • Wear down tooth enamel
  • Break fillings or other dental work
  • Worsening of TMJ dysfunction
  • Create jaw pain, toothaches, headaches, or earaches
  • Cause tooth sensitivity
  • Increase tooth mobility
  • Chip Teeth

There is no cure for bruxism; however, the condition can be managed. The most common procedure to help to alleviate pain and discomfort is a Night guard.

What is the right age for orthodontic treatment?

Patients of any age can have orthodontic treatment whether fixed or removable, knowing that braces can only be applied when the patient hasall permanent teeth erupted. The treatment time may however be longer for adult patients as the bone is denser in them. But with newer treatment options like invisible, ceramic and lingual braces; esthetics and time of treatment are also not a problem.

How do braces work and how long does it take to straighten teeth with braces?

The braces apply continuous, slow pressure over a period of time on the teeth and help in moving them into the proper positions. Bands, wires and elastics are placed on the teeth to move them in the right direction. Moving teeth into a functional and an esthetically pleasing position can take a few months to years depending on the amount of correction required, the age, the severity of the case and also the motivation levels of the patient.

Can I have multiple treatments done in one visit?

With the new technology that we have in our facility, we can offer you one day treatment than can include hygiene, root canal, fillings, crown (cerec), extraction or even implants (immediate implantation).

I have dental phobia, what is the solution?

For phobic patients, we offer conscious sedation or even one day dental treatment under general anesthesia for both children and adults.

How can I get pink gums?

Our specialized periodontists can remove the pigmentation off your gums by using the latest laser or surgical techniques.

I have a gummy smile, what are the ways to correct it?

Several ways can be used to correct a gummy smile and that include gingivectomy, crown lengthening, orthodontics, orthognathic surgery, lip repositioning, crowns and veneers, laser gum contouring and recently botox.

Are dental implants safe?

Yes. Unlike traditional dentures and bridges, dental implants do not cause any damage to the bone. Additionally, all of the material used for dental implants are safe and do not cause any decay. It is a simple surgical procedure to replace missing tooth or teeth without harming the adjacent tissues.