FAQ

Oral health refers to the health and status of someone’s teeth, gums, and overall oral cavity. Since these parts of our bodies are in constant use, it’s normal for them to become sore or inflamed from time to time. However, if health conditions like gingivitis, mouth pain, or dry mouth are persistent, it could be a sign of a larger issue.

Plaque and tartar buildup is a clear sign that you may have poor oral health. You should have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist regularly to remove plaque, and you should be brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal to keep plaque from building up.

If you have swollen gums, bleeding, pain, or loose teeth, you may have gum disease. You should schedule an appointment with a dentist right away.

Yes! The ADA recommends adults and children see a dentist for a regular checkup and cleaning every six months. Your dentist can check for and help prevent common problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.

A dental checkup is also a good opportunity for your dentist to inspect for signs of oral cancer.

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It is the most common form of periodontal disease. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria around the gum line, which causes irritation and swelling. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

Bad breath is most often caused by a buildup of odor-causing bacteria and tartar in your mouth. The bacteria live in dental plaque, a soft, sticky film that accumulates on your teeth.

To prevent bad breath, brush your teeth twice a day. Also be sure to clean between your teeth once a day with dental floss.

Yellow teeth are typically caused by changes in your enamel. Enamel is the outer protective layer of your teeth. If enamel becomes thin, your teeth will be more likely to appear yellow.

Your enamel can also change shades because of age. The enamel of younger people is naturally more vibrant due to the calcium and phosphorus present in their enamel. Over time, the enamel wears down, exposing more yellow dentin.

Many patients believe decay is due to poor hygiene habits. However, decay occurs from poor dental health.

When patients brush and floss regularly, they remove bacteria and food particles from their teeth. The bacteria in your mouth, when combined with sugary foods and drinks, create an acid that eats away at tooth enamel and causes decay.

Bad habits can ruin your teeth and your smile. In fact, many people experience dental problems due to bad habits. The bad habits listed below can be detrimental to you or a loved one’s smile:

• Cigarette smoke causes stains on your teeth. Additionally, it can cause gum disease and oral cancer.
• Nail-biting and pen-chewing can cause tooth damage.
• Chewing ice, corn kernels, and other foods with a hard or crunchy consistency can damage your teeth.
• Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can cause tooth damage, headaches, and jaw pain.

You will wear your aligners for 22-23 hours a day, removing them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Total treatment time depends on the severity of your case.

Yes! General dentistry is a combination of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care. Enjoy a healthy and bright smile by visiting our dental practice for services ranging from dental checkups and cleanings to tooth fillings and dental implants.