Frequently Asked Dental Questions
Clinical Questions
1
What Should I Expect During a Dental Check-up?
When you come to our dental clinic, our dentist will ask about your medical history and examine your mouth. The dental hygienist may also use special dental equipment to check your gums for gum disease. We believe in conducting a comprehensive dental exam to uncover existing and potential dental health issues.
2
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Even though dental x-rays require a low-level of radiation exposure, they are safe. Our dentists take precautions and employ every possible technique to make dental x-rays as safe as possible. A leaded apron helps protect the entire body from radiation, while a leaded thyroid collar shields the thyroid from radiation.
3
Why Do Teeth Need Fluoride?
Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association (A.D.A.), Center for Disease Control (C.D.C.), and American Academy of Paediatrics, both kids and adults should use toothpaste rich in fluoride to brush their teeth.
4
How do I know I have tooth cavity?
Here are common ways to know if you might have a cavity:
Tooth Sensitivity: If you experience pain or sensitivity when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, it could be a sign of a cavity. Sensitivity is often one of the earliest symptoms.
Toothache: A persistent toothache or localized pain in a specific tooth could be a sign of a cavity. The pain may vary in intensity and might come and go.
Visible Holes or Pits: If you can see visible holes, pits, or dark spots on the surface of your tooth, especially in the grooves of your molars or between your teeth, it may indicate the presence of a cavity.
Staining or Discoloration: White, brown, or black staining or discoloration on the surface of your tooth may be a sign of enamel erosion.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: If you have persistent bad breath (halitosis) or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it could be due to a decaying tooth.
Pain when Chewing: Pain or discomfort when you chew or bite down on certain foods may be a sign of a cavity, especially if the pain is localized to one tooth.
Swelling or Pus: In advanced cases, a dental abscess may develop, leading to swelling in the gums, a pimple-like bump on the gum (gum boil), or the discharge of pus. This is a serious condition that requires immediate dental attention.
5
What is the symptom of tooth sensitivity?
Sharp, Sudden Pain: Many people with tooth sensitivity experience a sudden, sharp pain in response to specific triggers. This pain can be intense but usually subsides quickly after the trigger is removed.
Cold Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity to cold is one of the most common symptoms. You may feel discomfort or pain when consuming cold foods or drinks, such as ice cream, cold water, or chilled beverages.
Hot Sensitivity: Some individuals with tooth sensitivity may also experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot foods or beverages. The heat can trigger a painful response in the affected teeth.
Sweet or Sugary Food Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can sometimes be triggered by sugary foods or drinks. Consuming sweets may lead to a sharp, stinging sensation in the affected tooth.
Acidic Food and Drink Sensitivity: Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits or soda, can cause tooth sensitivity in some people. The acidic content can erode the tooth enamel and expose the sensitive dentin layer, leading to pain.
Pressure Sensitivity: Applying pressure while brushing your teeth, using a toothpick, or biting down on food can sometimes cause sensitivity and discomfort in affected teeth.
Air Sensitivity: Exposure to cold air, especially during cold weather or while breathing through your mouth, can lead to sensitivity and pain in your teeth.
Pain When Touching the Tooth: Gently tapping or touching the sensitive tooth with your fingernail or a dental instrument may cause pain or discomfort.
Location-Specific Pain: Tooth sensitivity is typically localized to one or more specific teeth rather than affecting the entire mouth.
Frequently Asked Dental Questions
Surgical Questions
1
Do I need to remove my wisdom tooth?
The decision to remove wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, depends on several factors. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but it’s not always necessary for everyone. Your dentist or oral surgeon will typically consider the following when determining whether you need to have your wisdom teeth removed:
Impaction: Wisdom teeth often do not have enough space to erupt properly in the mouth. When they are unable to fully emerge through the gum line, they can become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various dental issues, including pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, your dentist may recommend extraction.
Pain and Discomfort: If your wisdom teeth are causing persistent pain or discomfort, it may be an indication that they need to be removed. Pain can be caused by various factors, including impaction, crowding, or infection.
Infection and Gum Disease: Wisdom teeth can be more challenging to clean properly, making them susceptible to infection and gum disease. If you have recurrent infections or gum issues related to your wisdom teeth, extraction may be recommended to alleviate the problem.
Crowding: In some cases, wisdom teeth can lead to crowding or shifting of the other teeth in your mouth. If the eruption of wisdom teeth is causing your existing teeth to become misaligned, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest removal.
Damage to Nearby Teeth: Wisdom teeth that grow in at an angle or push against adjacent teeth can cause damage to those neighboring teeth. This can result in the need for additional dental work and may prompt the removal of the wisdom teeth.
Cyst Formation: In rare cases, fluid-filled cysts can develop around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts can cause bone damage and require surgical removal.
Preventative Removal: In some cases, dentists may recommend the preemptive removal of wisdom teeth, even if they are not currently causing problems. This is often done to prevent potential future issues, as wisdom teeth tend to become problematic for many people as they age.
Frequently Asked Dental Questions
Insurance Questions
1
How Can You Help with Insurance?
Our staff at Denwest are available to help you with insurance claims and the necessary paperwork. Our dental clinic accepts major insurance plans.
2
Do You Provide Affordable Payment Plans?
We understand that everyone deserves a perfect smile, and our goal is to make it as easy as possible for you to get it. Our affordable payment plans allow our customers to start treatment immediately while making convenient monthly payments.
3
Which procedures are Covered by my Dental Insurance?
The dental procedures covered by your dental insurance will vary depending on your insurance provider. Some of the common procedures covered by dental insurance are oral surgery, root canal, tooth extractions, and fillings. Dental insurance may also cover periodontics, orthodontics, and prosthodontics.
Frequently Asked Dental Questions
Oral Hygiene Questions
1
Do I Need to Brush and Floss Daily?
Yes, you should brush and floss your teeth daily and preferably twice a day. Regular brushing and flossing help to prevent plaque accumulation, which may lead to gum disease and dental cavities.
2
How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to dental visits. Some people will need to visit the dentist more frequently than others. Our doctors will advise you on how often you should schedule your dental visits.
3
At What Age Should My Child Start Visiting the Dentist?
Experts recommend you start taking your child to the dentist from the age of 6 months when the child gets their first tooth. Some parents take their children to the dentist from the age of 1 year. Your goal should be to take your child to the dentist before they develop dental problems.
Frequently Asked Dental Questions
Emergency Questions
1
Do You Provide Emergency Dental Services?
We hope that you never have to experience a dental emergency. However, we provide emergency dental services and will always be there for you when you need us.
2
How Do I Know If I Have a Dental Emergency?
You will know that you have a dental emergency if you are in excruciating pain. You may also notice signs like bleeding, swelling, or a dental abscess. You may also have a dental emergency if you notice pus or a foul smell from your mouth.
3
What Should I Do If I Have a Dental Emergency?
You should seek immediate dental treatment. The sooner you seek dental treatment, the higher the chance that the dentist will save your tooth.
1
How Can You Help with Insurance?
Our staff at Denwest are available to help you with insurance claims and the necessary paperwork. Our dental clinic accepts major insurance plans.
