As a Dentist, Dr. Gano often receives a handful of questions from patients of all backgrounds. To make the answers to these common questions available to all, we’ve decided to include answers to some of these questions below. We hope these FAQs provide as much insight to you as they have to our patients.
As a rule, any toothpaste that contains fluoride is generally considered the best bet to maintain oral hygiene.
Generally, a toothbrush with soft bristles that is about one inch tall and a half-inch wide will suffice. To clarify, you should seek a brush head that can fit in your mouth and easily reach all areas during brushing. To ensure you are choosing the absolute best toothbrush for your mouth, ask your dentist for a recommendation.
There are three options for replacing missing teeth. The options are dental implants, fixed bridges, and removable partial denture/complete dentures, and each come with their own pros and cons.
Dental Implants. Dental implants have the benefits of feeling like natural teeth without impacting or damaging surrounding teeth. However, dental implants may not be for everyone, since the placement of implants can be a lengthy process.
Fixed Bridge. Fixed bridges are a favorite option by many patients with missing teeth due to how elegantly they mimic the appearance, functionality, and feel of natural teeth. Additionally, when you clean your teeth, you won’t have to worry about removing these bridges. As a drawback, however, surrounding teeth are impacted by the installation of a fixed bridge.
Removable Bridge. Removable bridges have the great benefit of being removable as well as being easily repairable. Because they’re removable, however, these bridges are also less stable than fixed bridges and dental implants, and are more likely to get broken or lost.
Don’t hesitate to let us know. Dr. Gano’s office can be reached at 269-373-1999. If you are calling after hours, an emergency number is provided on the answering machine.
A crown is a type of dental restoration, where a crown completely covers or encircles a tooth or dental implant. These are used to restore the tooth to its proper size and shape. Generally speaking, a crown either strengthens a tooth or gives it a better appearance. Crowns last an average of ten years or more and are a great way to rehabilitate unwell teeth.
Just like adult teeth, baby teeth are necessary for chewing, speaking and confidence in one’s appearance. Furthermore, a child’s baby teeth hold a place in the jaw for their permanent teeth that will come later in life. Therefore, caring for baby teeth is just as important as caring for adult teeth.
Dental implants are a solution for replacing missing teeth. They look much like natural teeth and are set in your gums in a similar way. If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime.
There are a couple things that go into proper dental care. First, it is important to visit your dentist every 6 months. The visit will involve a thorough check-up and a cleaning. In between visits, you should be brushing twice daily with a toothpaste that contains fluoride and flossing one time per day. Also, using mouthwash will help eliminate the presence of plaque and will freshen breath. This type of regular dental care will ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy. Further, regular visits to the dentist will help catch any problems that may arise early on thus preventing long-term or more serious dental problems.
The two major stages of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder form and is treatable, whereas periodontitis is more serious and may lead to more severe problems. Any early sign of gum disease is gums that are tender, red in color and bleed easily.
The main treatment for gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis include a thorough in-office cleaning. Additionally, medication may also be recommended. In extreme cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary. To avoid the risks associated with gingivitis and periodontitis, simply follow good oral hygiene regimen by brushing at least twice a day and flossing.
Fluoride is a preventative method for tooth decay. During dental checkups, fluoride is simply applied topically with a gel by the dental hygienist.
Sensitive teeth may be caused by cavities, fractured teeth, worn tooth enamel or an exposed root. Sensitive teeth may be treated using toothpaste with a desensitizing agent or through an in-office technique that may be prescribed by a dentist for each unique case.
Flossing is very important to maintaining dental hygiene and should be done once a day. Flossing prevents gum disease, tooth decay, halitosis, and excessive tartar build-up.
Certainly! Mouthwash makes your breath fresher and leaves your mouth feeling refreshed. It can also reduce the presence of plaque, which can be harmful to your health. We recommend Listerine Freshburst for most people, where Act or Colgate Phos-Flur are recommended for those who need extra fluoride.
