Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to get my discolored teeth to look good?
Thanks to the wonders of modern cosmetic dentistry, the answer is, " Not only is it possible, but in many cases, it's quick, painless and surprisingly affordable." You may be able to spruce your mouth up with one, maybe two, of the vast array of cosmetic dental procedures available these days.
What are some examples of how I can whiten my teeth?
Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or discolored by food and age, or darkened as a result of injury. Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored plastic putty called composite resin to the surface of your chipped, broken or discolored teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made, tooth-colored shells that cover the front of your teeth. Once applied, they correct or camouflage misaligned, poorly shaped, damaged, or discolored teeth.
Is there a way to avoid braces while straightening my smile?
If your teeth are a bit overcrowded or uneven, they can be slightly contoured in a procedure called enamel shaping or cosmetic recontouring. For instance, a tooth looks much longer than the rest, some enamel can be removed and your tooth can be reshaped. The process is usually quick and painless.
Is there anything out there to help me with bad breath?
While there are many causes for bad breath, it most commonly results from a lack of good oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups and cleanings are the best prevention for bad breath. Good saliva flow cleanses the teeth and tissues, and is essential to keeping the mouth healthy and in balance. A common side effect of many medications is reduced saliva flow, which results in a dry mouth (also called xerostomia) and increased mouth odor. Dry mouth may also be caused by other problems involving the salivary glands or from continuously breathing through the mouth. I can take a look at your cause and determine the best solution.
What are cavities?
Caused by certain types of bacteria (germs) that live in your mouth. Bacteria stick to the film on your teeth called plaque. The bacteria feed on what you eat, especially sugars (including fruit sugars) and cooked starch (bread, potatoes, rice, pasta, etc.). About 5 minutes after you eat, or drink, the bacteria begin making acid as they digest your food. This acid can break down the tooth’s outer surface and dissolve valuable minerals that protect your teeth. The result is cavities.
How can I prevent cavities?
The best way is to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here are some other ways you can prevent cavities:
- Floss daily to clean the areas between your teeth
- Eat a balanced diet and limit snacking in between meals
- Visit your CDA member dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams
Contact our office to ask about:
- Dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts
- Xylitol gum and mints
- Fluoride treatments including varnish
What are implants?
Implants have been around for many years and have gained wider and wider acceptance over time as they have proved a successful method for replacing missing teeth. They offer a way to have artificial teeth that look natural and feel secure.
How successful are dental implants?
While implants are highly successful, the likelihood of success depends on several factors. The amount of bone available to support the implant, the patient’s health, whether or not the patient smokes and the quality of ongoing home care all effect long-term success.
Remember, replacing missing teeth is important to maintaining good dental health. I will evaluate the conditions in your mouth and help you decide if you are a good candidate for implants.