Did you know…? 5 questions and answers

What are the early signs of dental trouble?

Visit a dentist if you have any of these issues or see your child having trouble chewing or complaining of soreness:

• Mouth sores
• Jaw pain
• Redness
• Swollen face or gums
• Tooth sensitivity
• Broken teeth
• Dry mouth
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

Are dental X-rays safe and needed?

Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for your safety. Your dentist will tell you how many x-rays you need in order to accomplish a comprehensive or a limited exam.

Expect dental radiographs during the first exam after not seeing a dentist for a while. This helps check teeth and gum health. Kids have X-rays done frequently because their teeth are changing, the jaws are growing and because they get cavities more easily.

Please refer to the chart below for more information.

Do teeth need fluoride?

Fluoride makes the teeth stronger and prevents decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) all agree that kids should use fluoride toothpaste for brushing, taking care not to swallow it. Adults benefit from using fluoride to protect their teeth too, even if there are existing crowns and fillings, fluoride will further prevent the recurrence of cavities. All dental products that contain fluoride will definitively help your teeth. However, the amount of fluoride contained in over the counter (OTC) products is exceptionally low in order to prevent intoxication in case of swallowing them. The fluoride varnish applied at the dental office has a concentration of 5% of Sodium Fluoride; you cannot find this fluoride concentration in any product OTC. Curious about it? Just take a pic at any fluoride product that you have at home.

What's the best way to whiten my teeth?

Stores sell many whitening products, and you can get take-home gels and trays from your dentist, but neither is as strong and fast as a whitening treatment done in a dental office. You can visit your dentist with yellow teeth and step out of the office wearing a bright smile in only one visit. Amazing!

If you want to try an over-the-counter whitener, look for one with an ADA seal. Check with your dentist for advice before you buy, especially if you have had previous dental work or dark stains. Caution: do not use any whitening treatment if you have pending dental procedures, the whitening products may further hurt your gums, teeth or both if you have an existing condition. Always visit the dentist for professional advice and dental examination prior to whiten your teeth.

How to choose the right toothbrush?

Typically, it doesn’t make a huge difference whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush as long as you use them correctly. However, people may prefer one over the other. For instance, an electric toothbrush may have a timer that can help you manage the brushing time and guide you through your mouth with out leaving any tooth without brushing. Children may also find electric toothbrushes more fun and clean their teeth more thoroughly as a result. Moreover, the vibrations from the electric tooth brush can stimulate and massage your gums. However, it is all about the technique you use and how frequent you brush your teeth.