Oral Hygiene

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• At what age should I take my child for their first dental appointment?

  The first treatment for children is generally recommended between 3 and 4 years of age, unless an unusual problem arises beforehand. Typically, the first visit to the dentist should occur as soon as the first tooth erupts, and definitely by age 1. Many dentists are now recommending that infants be brought into the office to review proper oral hygiene with parents, what to expect in the oral development, and what to look out for. A healthy head start to oral care can last a lifetime.

• How do they do those great teeth makeovers on Extreme Makeover?

  Depending on the specific case, there are various procedures used to complete the “extreme makeover.” People with crowded teeth would benefit from porcelain veneers, which is tooth-colored porcelain bonded directly to the teeth. Bonding is also used to improve chipped and/or misaligned teeth. If a person has spaces between teeth, a dentist may apply a custom-made, tooth-colored material called composite resin. For discoloration or staining, there are a myriad of whitening products to give a person that brighter smile. Whatever a person’s situation or budget, there are several options that a Great Expressions Dental Center dentist has to improve your smile. Cosmetic dentistry doesn’t only make you look better, it makes you feel better.

• How much time and effort is involved in getting my teeth whiter?

  Because of the options available today, you can have your whitening completed in a one- to two-hour visit at the dental office, or in a one- to three-week period using one of the convenient take-home products. There are several options and it’s best to discuss your expectations with your Great Expressions Dental Center dentist, who can help you decide on which method will be right for you. All bleaching or whitening will require touch-up treatments in the future to maintain your bright, new smile.

• I have bad breath. Is there a better solution than over-the-counter mouthwashes?

  Some bad breath is related to food debris, and over-the-counter mouth rinses work just fine. However, bacteria in the mouth, which can cause gum disease and decay, can also bring on chronic bad breath (halitosis). If bad breath seems to stay with you, your dentist can help to remove the problem and keep it under control.

• I have missing teeth. What options do I have?

  Most dentists today recommend dental implants as the most natural, functional, and aesthetically pleasing option to replace missing teeth. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts, which protrude through the gums, are then attached to the implant. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

  A bridge is another option where one or more existing teeth are used to hold the “suspended” replacement tooth in the area of the missing tooth. “Partials” allow patients to keep their remaining healthy teeth and replace missing teeth to restore form and function. Precision partials use fixed crowns and special attachments to secure the partial and eliminate the need for conventional clasping methods. You should discuss the options and your desires with your GEDC dentist before deciding on a method of treatment.

• Is it really necessary to go to the dentist every six months?

  Yes, and for many people, once every six months is not often enough. Besides checking for cavities, your dentist and hygienist are evaluating the health of your gums for the possibility of gum disease that may harbor bacteria or infection and could create other health problems. Your head and neck region are examined for infection and oral cancer. Many diseases of the body show symptoms and signs in the oral cavity. To ensure the best preventive care for you and your body, visiting your dentist at least twice a year is recommended.

• What is a white filling?

  A white filling or composite filling is a non-metallic material used for cosmetic purposes to restore a tooth. This type of filling is beneficial because the restored tooth has a more natural appearance, and white fillings are gaining popularity with patients. Historically, these materials have been used mostly for front teeth, but with the advent of newer and stronger white materials, it can be also used for restoring back teeth in most cases.

• Why is it important to floss my teeth every day?

  Teeth have five surfaces, and brushing alone reaches only three of them. Bacteria are small and do not require much space to survive. Decay and gum disease are caused by these types of stubborn bacteria. Flossing is an attempt to clean the surfaces of your teeth that you cannot reach with a toothbrush. Without flossing, it is virtually impossible to control gum disease and decay. Brushing and flossing are important pieces of the complete oral hygiene package.

• With all the teeth whitening products on the market, how can I tell which one is best for me?

  Depending on your current shade, you can achieve results of up to eight shades lighter in one office visit, or you can whiten your smile up to five shades lighter in the comfort of your own home (using Discus Nite White or Crest Whitestrips). All teeth tend to pick up new stains over time. To maintain your results, a touch-up may be periodically required. Great Expressions Dental Centers offer all of these options, and there is sure to be one in your price range.