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Frequently Asked Questions

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Most Common Dental Questions & Answers

How often should I visit the dentist?
You should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning. However, some people with gum disease, braces, or other issues may need more frequent visits.

Cavities are caused by plaque bacteria that produce acids from sugary or starchy foods. The acid erodes tooth enamel over time, forming holes (cavities).

The safest and most effective whitening methods are professional whitening treatments offered by your dentist. Over-the-counter products can help but may not be as strong or safe.

Bleeding gums often indicate gingivitis (early gum disease) due to plaque buildup. It can also be from brushing too hard. Improving oral hygiene and seeing a dentist can help.

Yes. Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth that brushing alone can’t reach, preventing cavities and gum disease.
Use a soft-bristled brush, hold it at a 45-degree angle, and use gentle circular motions. Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day.
Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing plaque, especially for people who struggle with manual brushing technique, but both can be effective when used properly.
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
Yes. Fluoride is safe and effective in strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities when used as directed in toothpaste and drinking water.
Yes. Poor oral health has been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and pregnancy complications. Keeping your mouth healthy supports overall health.
Rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and see a dentist as soon as possible. A toothache could indicate infection or decay.
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth coming in.
Common causes include poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, certain foods, or underlying health conditions. Brushing, flossing, and staying hydrated can help.
Yes. Dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered safe, especially with protective lead aprons and modern digital X-ray systems.
A root canal removes infected pulp from inside a tooth. With modern anesthesia, it’s usually no more painful than getting a filling.

Common Questions & Answers About Crowns, Veneers, and Composite Bonding

What is a dental crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
  • Crowns are typically recommended for:
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Severely decayed teeth
  • Teeth after root canal treatment
  • Cosmetic improvement
  • Large fillings that weaken the tooth

Crowns can be made from:

  • Porcelain or ceramic (natural-looking)
  • Metal alloys (strong and durable)
  • Porcelain fused to metal (aesthetic + strength)
  • Zirconia (strong and aesthetic)
With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years, sometimes longer.
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the treatment. Mild soreness afterward is normal.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells (usually porcelain or composite) that cover the front surface of teeth to improve appearance.

Veneers are great for:

  • Discolored or stained teeth
  • Chipped or worn teeth
  • Slightly crooked or uneven teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years; composite veneers last around 5–7 years with good care.
Yes, especially porcelain veneers. A small amount of enamel is removed, making the procedure irreversible.
Not if done correctly. Minimal enamel removal is required, and veneers protect the underlying tooth. However, the tooth will always need a veneer or crown afterward.
Composite bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, gaps, discoloration, or reshape teeth. It’s a quick, non-invasive cosmetic procedure.
No. Bonding is less invasive and reversible, usually completed in one visit. Veneers are stronger, more durable, and often more aesthetic.
Bonding lasts around 4–8 years, depending on oral habits and care.
Yes. Composite resin can stain (from coffee, wine, smoking) and chip more easily than porcelain. Good oral hygiene and avoiding hard foods help extend its life.
No. It usually requires no drilling or anesthesia unless it’s being used to fill a cavity.

Common Questions & Answers About Dental Extractions

Why would a tooth need to be extracted?

Teeth may need to be removed due to:

  • Severe decay or damage
  • Gum disease (periodontitis)
  • Impacted wisdom teeth
  • Overcrowding
  • Infection or abscess
  • Orthodontic preparation
No. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure—just pressure. Afterward, mild soreness or discomfort is normal and can be managed with pain medication.
Simple extraction: For visible teeth; done with forceps and elevators. Surgical extraction: For impacted or broken teeth; may involve incisions, bone removal, or stitches.
Initial healing usually takes 7–10 days, but complete healing of the socket can take a few weeks. Wisdom tooth extractions may take a bit longer to heal.

Avoid for the first 24–72 hours:

  • Smoking or vaping
  • Drinking through a straw
  • Hard, crunchy, or hot foods
  • Vigorous rinsing or spitting
  • Physical exertion

 

These can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot protecting the healing site is lost, exposing bone and nerves. It’s very painful. Prevent it by:

  • Not smoking
  • Avoiding straws
  • Following all post-op instructions carefully
Yes, but stick to soft foods (like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies) for the first 1–2 days. Avoid chewing on the extraction side.
  • Take prescribed or OTC pain relievers
  • Apply ice packs (20 minutes on/off) for the first 24 hours
  • Keep your head elevated when resting
Possibly. Surgical extractions or complex cases often require dissolvable stitches, which usually fall out on their own within a week or two.
For simple extractions, many people return the next day. For wisdom teeth or surgical extractions, you may need 2–3 days of rest.

Yes—unless it’s a wisdom tooth. Missing teeth can cause shifting, bite problems, bone loss, and difficulty chewing. Options include:

  • Dental implants
  • Bridges
  • Partial dentures
Some light bleeding for the first few hours is normal. Bite on gauze for 30–60 minutes to help stop it. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop, contact your dentist.

Call if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening pain after 3 days
  • Signs of infection (fever, swelling, pus)
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Bad taste or odor from the site

Yes, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse with salt water(not mouthwash) and resume brushing carefully.