Here at Dental Care of Boca Raton, we believe that oral health begins at home. That’s why we encourage our patients to play proactive roles in their oral well-being by visiting us as recommended and getting the right information. As a way of empowering our patients, we’re always eager and willing to answer all their concerns and ensure they get the right answers.
Here are some of the questions many patients ask us, and the answers that everyone needs to know.
How Often Should I Visit a Dentist, and Why?
It’s recommended that you should see a dentist twice every year. Regular dental visits allow us to catch dental problems early enough. At their onset, most dental problems require minimally invasive intervention. Failure to see a dentist as required can lead to an escalation of dental issues, which can result in tooth loss and other complications. If you have preexisting issues, such as gum disease, we may ask you to come in more frequently. For instance, patients with gum disease are usually booked for visits every three to four months. This allows us to keep a close eye on your treatment and progress.
How Many Times Should I Brush and Floss in A Day?
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day. At least in this context means that you can choose to brush and floss more than these times, but you shouldn’t go below these numbers. Most people choose to brush their teeth in the morning and then brush and floss before bed. You can choose this type of brushing and flossing schedule. If you have time to accomplish brushing and flossing after lunch, even better, make sure to use toothpaste that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance as well as a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Do I Really Need to Floss? I’ve Heard that It’s Not Essential.
Flossing removes the plaque and food debris hiding between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. Without flossing, you increase your chances of developing cavities, gum disease as well as bad breath. While studies on the direct correlation of flossing and oral health are still ongoing, the truth is that flossing is an effective way to boost your dental hygiene.
I Brush and Teeth Diligently Every Day. Do I Still Need Professional Cleaning?
Yes, absolutely. Even after brushing and flossing, there’s still some gunk that’s left behind on your teeth, gums, and tongue. Accumulation of this gunk, otherwise known as plaque and tartar, can cause gum inflammation (gingivitis) as well as periodontal disease. During a professional dental cleaning, we use advanced tools and our expertise to ensure we get rid of all this gunk. The result is fresher breath and a brighter, healthier smile.
How Do Cavities Form?
Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth break down sugars into harmful acids that cause corrosion of the teeth enamel. That’s why it’s important to brush your teeth to eliminate these bacteria as well as the food debris that the bacteria thrive on. Indulging in sugary snacks and drinks also increases your susceptibility to cavities as these foods give the bacteria the fuel they require to continue their harmful exploits.
Should Children/babies Visit the Dentist?
Absolutely. Children should have their first dental visit as soon as their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Before this, you should ensure you’re caring for your child’s oral health. Clean your little one’s gums with a clean washcloth and warm water after every feeding and never let your baby go to bed with a bottle as this can cause baby bottle tooth decay. Reinforce the importance of proper dental hygiene at home by embracing the habits you want your child to emulate.
I’m Nervous About My Next Dental Appointment. What Can I Do?
It’s natural to experience some anxiety before your dental visit. A lot of people struggle with this. We understand this and have taken measures to ensure you feel safe and comfortable during your time with us. One of the best ways to deal with your anxiety is by communicating it to us. Whether you’re mildly anxious or incredibly terrified, we want to know. By knowing, we can work on it with you. We provide various interventions, including music, movies, and TV, to distract you during the procedure. We can also talk you through every step of the way to help you feel more at ease. We also offer sedation dentistry to help our patients to stay calm and relaxed during treatment.