Dental FAQ
Your mouth is an important feature of your body, responsible for many functions. With your mouth, you can eat, speak, and express emotion. For it to function at its best, regular maintenance is necessary. This maintenance involves much more than just daily brushing and flossing. Routine professional care is also necessary. Many patients have questions about how to maintain optimal oral health. Encino Cosmetic Dentistry is here to help.
What are the Symptoms to Watch Out For?There are several symptoms that can indicate that there is a problem and that an appointment is needed. These symptoms include:| • |
Gums that are red and swollen.
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Your gums bleed when you brush and floss.
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A toothache.
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Tooth sensitivity.
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Jaw pain.
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Sores in your mouth. |
What Kind of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Should I Use?You may have noticed that there are many toothbrushes and toothpaste available. This can make choosing the right tools overwhelming. Here are a few tips on what to look for. It is recommended that you use a toothbrush with soft bristles. It should be easy to handle and feel comfortable in your mouth.
As for toothpaste, it is recommended that you use a fluoridated toothpaste, which will help to keep your teeth strong and prevent cavities. There is also toothpaste available to deal with specific concerns, such as discoloration and sensitivity. If you are unsure of exactly what toothpaste is right for you, we can help.
Do I Have to Floss Every Day?Yes. Even if you brush twice a day, the bristles of your toothbrush cannot reach between your teeth. Floss helps to access these spaces, allowing you to eliminate plaque, bacteria, and other debris. With daily flossing, you can help to prevent the formation of cavities between your teeth.
Why Are Dental Visits So Important?Even if you brush and floss every day, there are some regions of your mouth that are more difficult to clean than others. This can result in the formation of cavities and gum disease, despite having good oral hygiene habits at home. Cleanings and exams are an integral part of keeping your mouth happy and healthy. Cleanings allow us to eliminate all buildup from your teeth, which aids in the prevention of serious oral health issues. Exams enable us to detect issues in their earliest stages so that you can get the treatment you need to avoid serious complications later.
Do I Need X-Rays?While there are many parts of your mouth that we can see with a visual exam, there are also many components of your mouth that cannot be seen. X-rays allow us to view the areas between your teeth and below your gums. They can show cavities between teeth, root damage, bone loss, impacted teeth, and many other issues that might not exhibit symptoms until they have progressed into something more serious. X-rays help us to get the full picture of your oral health so that we can provide you with optimal care.
Why is My Medical History Important?Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of developing oral health issues. Many health issues can also affect the types of treatments we can safely provide you with. At the same time, oral health issues can worsen certain health conditions, or increase your risk of developing different health issues. With your medical history, we can tailor your care specifically to your needs.
How Important is Fluoride?Fluoride is a naturally occurring element in your teeth. It helps your teeth to fight off acid attacks from plaque and bacteria. Your teeth lose fluoride every day. Fluoride can also be replaced. Replacing lost fluoride is essential for ensuring that your teeth can effectively fight off acid erosion. Fluoride can be found in trace amounts in certain foods as well as in treated tap water. It is available in many oral care products. If necessary, we can also provide you with fluoride treatments to help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
We are here to provide you with the best possible care for optimal or health. If you still have any questions not answered here, call Encino Cosmetic Dentistry at (818) 783-0408 today. |
