Q: Why do I need x – rays?
A: X-rays help us dentist to see your tooth condition, its roots, cysts, exact location of unerupted teeth that cannot be seen through visual examination. Follow up patients may require x rays to monitor the prognosis of the treated tooth.
Q: Which is better electronic or mechanical toothbrush?
A: The important thing is to brush correctly, thoroughly for 2 minutes, twice daily and have regular checkups. In case you are wearing braces, inadequate physical or mental dexterity electric toothbrush may be better. Kids may also be more inspired by electric toothbrush, which makes brushing fun.
Q: What should I do if my child falls and the permanent tooth knocks off?
A: Calm your child. Rinse the tooth in water. Put the tooth in your child’s mouth and ask him to bite on a piece of gauze. If you cannot, put it in a glass of cold milk. Meet the dentist as soon as possible.
Q: Should I pull my child’s loose teeth?
A: The best policy is patience. If the tooth is loose it will fall off on its own. You can give your child something hard and healthy to eat like apples, carrots that may help tooth fall off.
Q: Why is sugar bad for teeth?
A: Sugar from food and drinks may be retained on your teeth. This causes bacteria to grow that produce acids that eat away your teeth.
Q: I have dentures, do I need to brush?
A: You should gently clean your dentures daily using soft toothbrush to remove food and plaque.
Q: When can my child start brushing?
A: You can start caring for baby’s gums right away even before teeth erupt. As soon as teeth erupt, you can use a small amount of toothpaste along with a soft toothbrush to brush his teeth. Parents should help their kids to brush usually around the age of 6. Even at that point you should still remain involved to be sure he’s brushing properly.
Q: I have sensitive teeth particularly to hot and cold. What should I do?
A: Sensitivity to hot or cold may be because of a cavity, lost or loose filling or an exposed root surface. For severe sensitivity, talk to your dentist and get it treated for the same.
Q: I have missing teeth and don’t want dentures. What are the options for that?
A: If you have many missing teeth, but don’t want to deal with the drawbacks of dentures, the most common and effective alternative is dental implants. They are a long term and durable option and may last a lifetime if properly taken care of. Overdentures are other option, they are held in place by implants and remaining teeth. Talk to your dentist about what would be the best alternative for you and your teeth.
Q: I need a professionally made sports mouth guard. How should I get it done?
A: Impressions of the upper and lower jaws are taken and customized mouth guards are made on these cats in the lab. They are made according to the athletes’ individual needs.
Q: I grind my teeth and clench my jaws, what can I do?
A: If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist. He/she can examine your mouth and jaws for signs of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and excessive wear on your teeth. Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep.
Q: I have bad breath. What should I do?
A: Plaque, the sticky build up on your teeth, collects bacteria that cause bad breath. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once. Rinse with a mouth wash, gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush or tongue scraper. Avoid foods that sour your breath. Kick the tobacco habit. If your mouth is dry, drink plenty of water during the day. If your bad breath continues despite your best efforts, make an appointment with your doctor.
