FAQS
What should I do if I have bad breath?
If you always have bad breath, practicing good dental hygiene by brushing your teeth twice or more daily, flossing, and tongue-cleaning is imperative. Keeping your mouth hydrated with plenty of water keeps it clean as well. Bad breath may also be a sign of underlying dental problems such as cavities or gum disease, though. Scheduling an appointment with a dentist in Valencia, CA to have an exam done is the optimal way to determine and treat the cause. Our staff of dental professionals can perform expert dental cleanings and suggest treatments to make your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.
How often should I brush and floss?
To have the best dental health, you must brush your teeth twice a day, morning and evening and floss once a day. Brushing dislodges plaque and food debris from tooth surfaces and flossing removes debris between teeth that the toothbrush can’t reach. Brushing and flossing every day helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Regular visits to the dentist near you are also essential in order to keep your oral health up to par. Your dentist can provide you with individualized advice and professional cleaning.
Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
Yes, safely used for decades to fill decayed teeth, amalgam fillings are very strong, long-lasting, and affordable. Although some are afraid of mercury, studies show the level of mercury in dental fillings to be low and safe for the vast majority of patients. If that is a fear for you, discuss alternatives with your Valencia dentist, such as composite (tooth-coloured) fillings.
How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
Your dentist advises that you see them every six months for an examination and cleaning. Regular check-ups give your dentist a chance to find issues when they are initially beginning, like cavities or gum disease, before they can become more severe. Dental cleanings eliminate plaque and tartar accumulation that brushing and flossing can’t remove. If you are at increased risk or have certain dental conditions, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits. Frequent dental cleanings and check-ups are the secrets to a healthy, dazzling smile.
How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease?
Gingivitis is an initial phase of gum disease and can make gums red, swollen, or bleed when irritated upon brushing or flossing. If not treated, it can turn to periodontal disease and infects the bone supporting your teeth and may cause tooth loss. Severe signs of gum disease are ongoing bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. A Valencia, CA dentist can diagnose your condition properly by examination and give good treatment.
Why is it important to use floss?
Flossing is essential because it removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Without flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to cavities and gum disease. Flossing daily helps keep your gums healthy and prevents bad breath. Regular flossing combined with brushing and dental visits is the best way to maintain your smile
How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?
Cosmetic dentistry offers various treatments designed to enhance your smile’s appearance and boost your confidence. Options include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental bonding, and Invisalign. These procedures can fix discoloration, chips, gaps, crooked teeth, and other imperfections. Cosmetic dentistry not only improves how your smile looks but can also improve oral function.
What are porcelain veneers and how can they improve my smile?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic material that are custom-made to cover the front surfaces of your teeth. They are used to correct issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, and misalignment, creating a natural-looking, beautiful smile. Veneers are durable, stain-resistant, and provide a long-lasting cosmetic improvement. If you’re interested in enhancing your smile with veneers, schedule a consultation with a dentist in Valencia, CA.
What can I do about stained or discoloured teeth?
Stained or discoloured teeth can often be improved with professional teeth whitening treatments offered by your dentist. In-office whitening procedures are fast, safe, and effective, brightening your teeth several shades in one visit. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help keep your smile bright longer. If whitening is not enough, cosmetic options like veneers or bonding may be recommended. Contact a skilled local dentist to discuss the best solution to restore your teeth’s natural whiteness and boost your confidence.
What are my options if I have missing teeth?
If you have missing teeth, there are several options to restore your smile and function. These include dental implants, fixed bridges, and dentures. Dental implants are a popular, long-lasting solution that mimics natural teeth. Bridges can fill gaps using adjacent teeth for support, while dentures offer removable replacements for multiple teeth. A dentist can evaluate your oral health and help you choose the best option based on your needs and budget.
What can be done about old, unattractive, or discoloured fillings?
Old or discoloured fillings can be replaced with newer, tooth-coloured composite materials that blend naturally with your teeth. These fillings improve the look of your smile while maintaining tooth strength and function. Composite fillings are also safer and more aesthetically pleasing than traditional amalgam (silver) fillings. If you’re unhappy with your current fillings, your dentist can evaluate and offer replacement options.
What does heart disease and other medical conditions have to do with gum disease?
Research shows a strong connection between gum disease and systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Gum disease causes inflammation that can increase the risk of these serious health problems. Poor oral health may worsen diabetes control and contribute to heart issues. That’s why managing gum disease through regular dental care is important not only for your mouth but also for your overall health.
When are sealants recommended?
Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities. They are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers as soon as their permanent molars come in. Sealants can also benefit adults who are prone to cavities. They provide a barrier that blocks food and bacteria from settling in the grooves of teeth.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
If a tooth is knocked out due to an injury, act quickly to improve the chance of saving it. Rinse the tooth gently with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub or remove any attached tissue. Try to place the tooth back into the socket if possible, or keep it moist by storing it in milk or saliva. Contact a dentist near you immediately for emergency dental care.