FAQ

Most patients should visit the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. Some patients may need more frequent visits if they have gum disease, ongoing oral health concerns or a higher risk of cavities.

Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot fully address at home. These visits also help your dentist detect cavities, gum disease and other concerns early, when treatment is often simpler.

During a dental exam, your dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite and overall oral health. Digital X-rays may be recommended when needed to identify problems that are not visible during a visual exam.

Dental X-rays use a very low level of radiation and are considered safe for most patients. They help your dentist diagnose decay, bone loss, infection, impacted teeth and other concerns that may need attention.

Cavities form when bacteria in plaque produce acids that weaken tooth enamel. Sugary foods, frequent snacking, poor brushing habits, dry mouth and missed dental visits can increase your risk of developing tooth decay.

You can help prevent cavities by brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, limiting sugary foods and drinks, drinking water and visiting your dentist regularly. Fluoride treatments may also help strengthen your enamel.

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts with red, swollen or bleeding gums and can progress to gum recession, bone loss and tooth loss without treatment.

Common signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum tenderness, gum recession, loose teeth and changes in your bite. Some patients may not notice symptoms until the condition has advanced.

Yes. Gum disease can often be managed with professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, improved home care and ongoing periodontal maintenance. Your dentist will recommend treatment based on the stage of your condition.

Bleeding gums are often a sign of inflammation caused by plaque buildup. While occasional irritation may happen, frequent bleeding should be evaluated by your dentist to check for gum disease or other concerns.

A toothache should be evaluated as soon as possible, especially if the pain is severe, persistent or accompanied by swelling. Tooth pain may be caused by decay, infection, injury, grinding or gum problems.

A dental emergency may include severe tooth pain, facial swelling, a knocked-out tooth, a broken tooth, uncontrolled bleeding or signs of infection. Contact your dental office right away for guidance and urgent care.

Hold the tooth by the crown, avoid touching the root and gently rinse it if dirty. Place it in milk or saliva and call your dentist immediately. Fast treatment may improve the chance of saving it.

Treatment depends on the size and location of the damage. Options may include dental bonding, a filling, a crown or root canal therapy if the inner tooth is affected. Your dentist can recommend the right solution.

Tooth-colored fillings repair cavities or minor tooth damage using composite resin that blends with your natural tooth shade. They restore tooth structure while offering a more natural-looking result than traditional metal fillings.

The lifespan of a filling depends on its size, location, material and your oral habits. With good home care and regular dental visits, many fillings can last several years before needing repair or replacement.

A dental crown is a custom restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are often recommended for large cavities, cracked teeth, worn teeth or teeth that have had root canal therapy.

A dental bridge may be recommended when you are missing one or more teeth. It uses neighboring teeth or dental implants for support and helps restore chewing function, appearance and proper tooth alignment.

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots placed in the jawbone to support crowns, bridges or dentures. They offer a stable, long-term option for replacing missing teeth and help support healthy bone structure.

You may be a candidate for dental implants if you have missing teeth, healthy gums and enough jawbone to support the implant. Your dentist will evaluate your health, bone structure and treatment goals.

Dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures replace several missing teeth and help restore your ability to chew and speak.

Root canal therapy treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth. The affected tissue is removed, the tooth is cleaned and sealed, and a crown may be placed to protect the tooth afterward.

Root canal therapy is designed to relieve tooth pain, not cause it. Local anesthesia helps keep you comfortable during treatment, and many patients say the experience feels similar to having a filling placed.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Treatments may include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, crowns or clear aligners, depending on your goals and overall oral health.

Professional teeth whitening uses safe whitening agents to break up stains on and within the enamel. It can brighten teeth affected by coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, aging and certain food stains.

Veneers may be a good option if you want to improve the appearance of chipped, stained, uneven, worn or slightly spaced teeth. Your dentist will evaluate your smile and discuss your goals.

Tooth sensitivity may be caused by enamel wear, gum recession, cavities, cracked teeth, teeth grinding or recent dental treatment. Your dentist can identify the cause and recommend ways to reduce discomfort.

Bad breath can often be improved with daily brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, hydration and regular dental cleanings. Persistent bad breath may be linked to gum disease, dry mouth, cavities or medical conditions.

Yes. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gumline where your toothbrush cannot reach. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease and bad breath.

If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard. This appliance helps protect your teeth from excessive wear, fractures, jaw soreness and other problems caused by grinding.