Dental FAQs

Regular dental checkups allow our doctors to detect problems early -- often 3 to 4 years before symptoms develop. A small cavity caught early requires a simple filling; left undetected, it can lead to a root canal or extraction. Checkups also include oral cancer screening, gum disease evaluation, and professional cleaning to remove tartar that brushing alone cannot reach. We recommend visits every six months for most patients.

Brushing cleans only about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The spaces between teeth harbor bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease, and your toothbrush can't reach them. As we tell patients: brushing without flossing is like washing only half your face. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline.

Children learn by example. Brush your teeth alongside them so they see it as a normal part of the daily routine. Let them choose their own toothbrush (fun colors help) and use a flavored children's toothpaste. Make it a game -- use a two-minute timer or play a song. Start dental visits by their first birthday so they become comfortable with the dentist early. Positive reinforcement works better than lectures about cavities.

Brush for two to three minutes twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily. Limit sugary foods and drinks -- sugar is present not just in candy but in crackers, chips, and fruit juices. Drink plenty of water. Visit us every six months for professional cleanings and exams. Ask about dental sealants for children and adults with deep grooves in their molars, and fluoride treatments for patients at higher cavity risk.

Dental X-rays reveal problems that are invisible to the naked eye: decay between teeth, infections in the bone, gum disease progression, early tumors, and impacted teeth. Finding and treating these problems early saves time, money, and discomfort. We use digital X-rays, which emit up to 80% less radiation than traditional film X-rays.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Studies have shown that children who consume fluoridated water from birth have significantly less dental decay. Professional fluoride treatments applied at our office provide a concentrated dose that supplements daily fluoride from toothpaste and water. We recommend professional fluoride treatments twice yearly for children.

Dental sealants are thin, tooth-colored coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). About 75% of cavities begin in the deep grooves of these teeth where brushing is least effective. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing out food particles and bacteria. They're about half the cost of fillings and are recommended for children ages 6-16 when permanent molars first erupt. Adults with deep grooves also benefit.

Oral piercings (tongue, lip, cheek) carry significant dental risks: chipped or cracked teeth from biting on metal jewelry, infection at the piercing site, increased saliva production, gum recession where jewelry contacts gum tissue, and potential nerve damage causing numbness. If you're considering an oral piercing, talk to us first so you understand the risks and how to minimize them.

Yes, if you act quickly. Pick up the tooth by the crown (chewing surface), never the root. Rinse it gently with water but do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments. Try to place it back in the socket. If that's not possible, store it in milk or your own saliva. Get to our office as quickly as possible -- successful reimplantation is most likely when treatment happens within 30 minutes. Call our emergency line at (602) 881-2474.

During sleep, saliva production drops significantly. Saliva normally washes away bacteria and food particles throughout the day. With reduced saliva flow overnight, bacteria multiply and produce foul-smelling sulfur compounds. Brushing and flossing before bed, cleaning your tongue, and staying hydrated all help reduce morning breath. Persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with good hygiene may indicate gum disease or another underlying condition -- ask us about it at your next visit.

Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic bacterial infection that destroys the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It begins as gingivitis (red, swollen, bleeding gums) and can progress to periodontitis, where pockets form around teeth and bone is lost. Untreated periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, low birth weight babies, and pre-term delivery. We offer comprehensive periodontal treatment including scaling and root planing, maintenance programs, and LANAP laser therapy.

Bleeding gums are usually a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease. Do not stop brushing or flossing -- that will make the problem worse. Instead, continue brushing twice daily and flossing gently, and schedule a periodontal screening at our office. We'll evaluate the extent of any gum disease and recommend appropriate treatment. Early-stage gum disease is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.

Professional teeth whitening results typically last one to three years, depending on your diet and habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco stain teeth faster. Occasional touch-up treatments can restore brightness. Our in-office GLO whitening system provides dramatic results in about 90 minutes. Learn more about our teeth whitening services.

Commercial whitening toothpastes can remove some surface stains, but they cannot change the intrinsic color of your teeth. Many contain harsh abrasives that can damage enamel with prolonged use. For meaningful whitening results, professional treatment with dental-grade peroxide is far more effective and safer for your enamel.

Tooth discoloration happens gradually from tobacco use, coffee, tea, red wine, certain medications, and natural aging. Hot beverages are especially problematic because they change the temperature of your teeth, making them more porous and susceptible to staining. Regular professional cleanings remove surface stains, and whitening treatments can restore brightness to teeth that have darkened over time.

Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods usually indicates exposed dentin from enamel wear or gum recession. Start with a desensitizing toothpaste containing strontium chloride or potassium nitrate -- use it consistently for at least two weeks. Avoid highly acidic foods and drinks. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and don't brush too aggressively. If sensitivity persists, visit us for professional desensitizing treatments or to rule out underlying problems like cracks or cavities.

Canker sores can be triggered by stress, tissue injury (biting your cheek), vitamin deficiencies (B-12, zinc, iron, folic acid), hormonal changes, and food sensitivities. Citrus and acidic fruits and vegetables are common triggers. Most canker sores heal within one to two weeks. Over-the-counter topical treatments can ease discomfort. If you get canker sores frequently or they last more than two weeks, schedule a visit so we can evaluate for underlying causes.

Absolutely. Smokeless tobacco contains at least 28 known cancer-causing chemicals. It causes tooth abrasion, gum recession, increased decay, severe discoloration, and significantly elevated risk of oral cancer. The sugar added to many smokeless tobacco products accelerates tooth decay. All tobacco users need regular dental exams with oral cancer screening. If you use smokeless tobacco, talk to us about oral health monitoring and cessation resources.

Mouthguards prevent an estimated 200,000 oral injuries annually. They protect teeth, lips, tongue, cheeks, and jaw from impacts during contact sports and recreational activities. While store-bought options provide basic protection, custom-fitted mouthguards from our office offer the best fit, comfort, and protection. Ask us about a custom mouthguard for you or your child.

Diabetes and gum disease have a two-way relationship. People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease because high blood sugar weakens the body's ability to fight infection. Conversely, severe gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar. If you have diabetes, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and visiting us regularly is especially important. Be sure to tell us about your diabetes management and any medications you take.

Pregnancy gingivitis affects roughly half of pregnant women due to hormonal changes that increase gum sensitivity to plaque. Research shows that pregnant women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to deliver prematurely or have a low-birth-weight baby. Dental care during pregnancy is safe and important. Continue regular checkups and cleanings, and let us know if you notice increased gum bleeding or swelling.

Certain conditions -- such as heart valve replacements, joint replacements, or compromised immune systems -- require antibiotic pre-medication before dental procedures. During treatment, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and potentially cause infections in vulnerable areas. Your physician and dentist will determine whether pre-medication is appropriate for your specific situation. Always inform us of your complete medical history.

Cancer treatments can cause mouth sores (mucositis), increased risk of infection, dry mouth (xerostomia), bleeding gums, and changes in taste. If you're scheduled for chemotherapy or radiation, we recommend a comprehensive dental evaluation beforehand to address any existing issues and create a management plan. Special rinses and fluoride treatments can help protect your teeth during treatment. Coordinate with your oncologist so we can time dental work appropriately.

Yes. Even with full dentures, annual dental visits are essential. We perform oral cancer screenings, examine your head and neck, check for bone ridge changes that affect denture fit, and evaluate the condition of your dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can cause sores, difficulty eating, and bone loss. Regular visits help you avoid more complicated problems down the road. If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, don't wait for your next scheduled visit -- call us.