Frequently Asked Dental Questions Rowlett
When You Want to Learn More About Oral Healthcare
At Sweet Family Dentistry, we encourage you and your family to ask questions. Prioritizing patient education, we believe it is an effective way to improve the state of a person’s oral health and overall well-being. By delivering insightful answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, we can provide the facts so that you have a clearer understanding of how best to take care of your smile year-round. If you don’t see your question listed, please give us a call. A member of our Rowlett dental team will be happy to help.
What happens during a dental checkup?
During the checkup, the teeth and gums will be gently evaluated using a visual exam and special tools to look for signs of decay or disease. X-ray images will be taken to provide an in-depth look at the portions of the teeth below the gums as well as the jaw bones. If any problems are identified, a treatment plan will be developed that takes the needs of the individual patient into account, and patients will receive complete information about their care options so they can feel confident in their treatment and their health. During the checkup, the teeth will also be carefully cleaned to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar.
What can be done to reduce my anxiety?
Knowledge is key when dealing with anxiety. Our staff will gladly answer any questions you have and try to provide all of the information you need about your visit. Keep in mind, you are in charge during every step of the treatment procedure. If you need to stop and take a break, just let us know. We also offer nitrous oxide – an inhaled gas that is extremely safe and short-acting to help keep you calm.
Will the teeth cleaning process hurt?
Most patients report little to no discomfort during teeth cleaning. However, patients who are very anxious about visiting the dentist and those with gum disease or sensitive teeth can have their teeth and gums numbed before cleaning to make the process more comfortable.
What kinds of issues require emergency or urgent care?
toothache, swollen gums, abscesses, chipped, cracked or fractured teeth, broken or lost restorations including bridges, crowns, veneers and dentures, damaged dental implants, broken or lost fillings, teeth that have been knocked out, loose teeth, lacerations or cuts in the soft tissues of the mouth, pain or loss of movement in the jaws.
How can I prevent tooth decay?
Having good oral hygiene begins with proper at-home care, and that means using the right brushing and flossing techniques. Use a soft toothbrush and replace it every three to six months. It’s also important to avoid foods and drinks high in sugar and to rinse well after having foods or beverages high in acid content, like soda or fruit juice. Try to stay away from sticky and sour candy, which is very high in acids that can erode protective tooth enamel. Instead, focus on lean protein, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and especially dairy, which can help remineralize teeth, so they stay strong. And of course, be sure to have a routine checkup and cleaning as recommended by your dental professionals.