Q&A
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitivity can occur when enamel is worn or gum recession exposes dentin. Microscopic channels in dentin can transmit stimuli toward the pulp inside the tooth. Decay, cracks, and other problems can also cause sensitivity, so persistent symptoms need a dental assessment.
What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
We recommend having a daily oral hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing to reduce the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay. It is also important to have routine dental exams and professional cleanings at intervals based on your needs.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums commonly caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. It may cause redness, swelling, and bleeding and can often be reversed with professional cleaning and effective home care.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontitis damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and can develop with few obvious symptoms. Possible signs include bleeding, persistent bad breath, recession, and loose or shifting teeth. Gingivitis does not inevitably progress, but early assessment and treatment help protect oral health.
How Do You Treat Periodontal Disease?
Treatment depends on severity and commonly includes improved home care, scaling and root planing, and continuing periodontal maintenance. Selected cases may need adjunctive medicines or periodontal surgery. Antibiotics are not a substitute for removing plaque and tartar and managing risk factors.
What is the Difference Between a White Filling and a Silver Filling?
Tooth-colored composite fillings use resin with filler particles to restore a prepared cavity. They bond to the tooth and restore its shape, but new decay can still develop around any filling without effective cleaning and preventive care.
Silver Fillings (or Amalgam) are made from a metal alloy, which can expand and contract depending on whether you are eating or drinking hot or cold things.
How Can I Improve My Smile?
There are a few procedures to make your smile great including tooth whitening, bonding, veneers, crowns or tooth alignment. Please contact our office to find out what works best for you.
What is Tooth Whitening?
Tooth whitening removes unwanted stains from teeth surfaces. It is a safe and well accepted cosmetic dental procedure. Our team will go over different whitening product options. To maintain your new white smile, avoid beverages that will stain such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
What is Bonding?
Bondings are white fillings that can be applied in different surfaces of a tooth to improve appearance. The immediate result is a great smile.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are shells of porcelain bonded to your teeth. This procedure will give you great cosmetic results. Patients love the way veneers improve chipped teeth, stains and crooked teeth.
What are Crowns?
Crowns fix teeth by creating a mold to fit over an entire tooth which can change the size, shape and color of your teeth with the benefit of restoring structural integrity.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
A screw-like object is placed under the gum and into the jaw bone to attach the new tooth.
Implants can support crowns, bridges, or dentures to replace missing teeth. They may help maintain surrounding bone, but are not guaranteed for life and can develop inflammation, infection, or bone loss. Suitability and maintenance needs require an individual assessment.
Contact Our Offices
For questions about your dental care or an appointment, contact Midland Park, Emerson, or Dumont.
