How Often Should I See My Dentist?
Most dental plans will allow 2 free visits a year and we also recommend that you should visit us at least every six months or more frequently to get your teeth cleaned if you have teeth problems. We may suggest more visits, depending on the diagnosis.
My teeth are not in good visual condition. What can I do ?
If your teeth are not in good visual shape, Porcelain veneers can be used to improve the appearance of the front teeth by masking discolorations, whitening teeth and/or reshaping a smile. They are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material which are bonded to the front of the teeth. Upon meeting you and consulting with you, we may recommend Porcelain Veneers, but there might be alternate ways to improve your smile. Call us.
So then what is GUM DISEASE. Is that different from Gingivitis?
Bacteria in your mouth, especially left under your gums, will irritate the gums and cause an inflammation, which leads to Gum (periodontal) disease. Gums begin to bleed and swell and the bacteria to go deeper under the gums. Teeth become unsupported and will fall out. Unfortunately, pain does not occur until the final stages of the disease, so if your gums bleed regularly, Call us as soon as possible.
Do I assume I have GINGIVITIS if my GUMS BLEED when I brush?
Not necessarily. Blood from gums while brushing could be an indicator of gingivitis or swollen gums caused by plaque. It could also be calculus (not the math equations) formed under the gumline. It can be treated by proper brushing, flossing, and gargling mouthwash within a few weeks. Call us as soon as you notice bleeding.
Instead of Dentures can I get PERMANENT TEETH that don’t have to be removed?
Dentures are only one way to restore a mouth that has no teeth. Nowadays with the advances in dental science and research, we can strategically place supports or implants to hold permanently cemented bridges that can be almost as good as your original teeth. Although everyone is a candidate for implants, call us at AC Dental for further advice.
Are MERCURY/SILVER FILLINGS toxic?
Dental filling material, is a mixture of mercury, and an alloy of silver, tin and copper. It can release mercury in miniscule amounts, which are much less than what you would be exposed to in food, air and water. Please tell us if this is a concern and we can tell you about other materials that can be used for restorations like gold, porcelain, and composite resins.
Are Teeth X-RAYS bad for me? How can I take precautions?
X-Rays determine the presence of periodontal disease, abscesses, and many abnormal growths such as cysts and tumors. They also show the location of cavities and decay where it may not be visible to the dentist on casual examination. We at AC Dental are sensitive to your concerns about exposure to radiation and will take X-Rays only when they are appropriate to your individual needs. We will also strive to minimize your exposure to radiation. We use the latest technology in digital xray systems that completely minimizes the exposure and require a fraction of the exposure need from the usual old fashioned xray systems.
I’ve heard that FLORIDE is not good for my teeth and my health. Is that true?
No. There is no need to worry unless you swallow large amounts of toothpaste every day while brushing. It is found universally throughout nature in water, soil, air and in most foods. The tooth enamel absorbes Fluoride to make itself resistant to decay and promotes remineralization.
Scary as it sounds, I’d like to know what a ROOT CANAL is?
It’s not scary at all. A root canal is a procedure done to save the damaged or dead pulp in the root canal of the tooth by cleaning out the diseased pulp and reshaping the canal. The canal is filled with gutta percha, a rubberlike material, to prevent recontamination of the tooth. The tooth is then permanently sealed with possibly a post and/or a gold or porcelain crown. This enables patients to keep the original tooth.
Dental Root Canal
