Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Many of our patients have the same questions that you do!

Below is a collection of the most common ones, along with the answers you need.

(Click the question to see the answer)

1. What age should you come in for cleaning & checkup?
Answer:  Children begin to adapt to the dentist at the ages of 2-3 years old.
2. Is bleaching safe?  Does it harm your enamel?
Answer:  Teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe when procedures are followed as directed.  However, there are certain risks associated with bleaching that you should be aware of:
1. Bleaching can cause a temporary increase in sensitivity to temperature, pressure and touch...which is most likely to occur during in-office whitening, where higher-concentration bleach is used.
2. Over half of those who use peroxide whiteners experience some degree of gum irritation resulting from the bleach concentration or from contact with the whitening trays.  Such irritation typically lasts up to several days, dissipating after bleaching has stopped or the peroxide concentration lowered.
3. Restorations such as bonding, dental crowns or porcelain veneers are not affected by bleach and therefore maintain their default color while the surrounding teeth are whitened...which can result in what is frequently called "technicolor teeth."
3. What is a "dental implant"?
Answer:  Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to support a restoration for a missing tooth or teeth, helping to stop or prevent jaw bone loss.  The dental implant procedure is categorized as a form of prosthetic (artificial replacement) dentistry, but also is considered a form of cosmetic dentistry.
4. I find myself grinding my teeth at the night and even during the day.  What can I do?
Answer:  The reality is that all of us grind our teeth on occasion – when we are angry or anxious, for instance, or when our sleep is disturbed.  But when we grind our teeth on a regular basis, we have a condition called bruxism (from the Greek bryx, meaning a "gnashing of the teeth").
While there is no cure for bruxism, the condition can be managed through treatment.  If you suspect that you clench or grind your teeth, consult your dentist to undergo a bruxism evaluation.  Your dentist is in the best position to evaluate the extent of wear and tear on your teeth, gums and jaw, and to provide a practical remedy to offset further damage.
5. What is the best toothpaste for me to use?
Answer:  A flouride toothpaste with cavity & tartar protection combined with 3 times daily use of a soft toothbrush is the most beneficial your enamel.
6. What is "Sedation Dentistry"?
Answer:  Sedation dentistry is used to provide a relaxing and anxiety-free experience for certain people receiving dental treatment.  It enables individuals too afraid to go to the dentist to receive the dental care they need while avoiding the common apprehension known as dental phobia.  Sedation is a process used to establish a relaxed, easy and calm state through the use of sedatives (tranquillizers, depressants, anti-anxiety medications, nitrous oxide, etc.) which can be administered in a variety of ways.
7. I'm afraid of the dentist.  What are my options?
Answer:  [ answer needed from the Dental Health Team ].
8. What's the best way to floss?
Answer:  Flossing your teeth is not hard, does not take much time and should be performed at least once daily.  The following steps detail optimal flossing techniques for maximum effectiveness:
1. Select the type dental floss that you prefer.
2. Tear off a piece of floss about 18 inches long.
3. Wrap one end of the floss around either your middle or index finger.
4. Wrap the other end of the floss around the finger on your opposite hand.
5. Grip the floss tightly between your thumb and finger.
6. Gently insert the dental floss between your teeth. Be careful not to snap the floss or you could damage your gums.
7. Gently move the floss back and forth against the tooth on both sides and underneath the gum line.
8. Repeat this process in between all of the upper and lower teeth.
9. It is important to floss against the backside of a tooth even if there is no tooth behind it.