Everyone has questions about their oral health! The person they ask most frequently to be assured of getting accurate information is their dentist. Here are seven of the most common questions that patients ask their dentist!
1.How often should I get a dental checkup?
Visiting the dentist twice a year is typically recommended for most people. However, depending upon one’s oral health and medical conditions, some may need more frequent checkups.
According to Colgate, those who might require additional monitoring include the following:
- Pregnant women.
- Smokers.
- Diabetics.
- People with periodontal (gum) disease.
- People with a weak immune response.
- People who are prone to cavities or plaque build-up.
There is a lingering belief that pregnant women should avoid visiting the dentist. However, the hormonal changes that pregnancy causes can trigger certain conditions — such as periodontal disease and tender gums that bleed easily — or make some existing conditions worse. The American Dental Association (ADA), the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics all encourage women to get dental care while pregnant. Our blog post — “What You Need to Know About Dental Care During Pregnancy” — covers this topic in detail.
Moreover, those living with diabetes — particularly uncontrolled diabetes —are at increased risk for developing such oral health issues as periodontal disease, tooth decay, dry mouth and thrush. Our blog post — “Diabetes and Oral Health” — covers this topic in detail.
2. How often should I get dental X-rays?
Most adults have bitewing X-rays every year, and a full mouth series every four to five years. But those with a higher risk for decay or undergoing certain medical treatments may need them every six to 18 months. Bitewing X-rays are a specific type of dental X-ray that captures the upper and lower teeth in a single view, focusing on the areas where the teeth touch, known as the interproximal spaces. They are particularly helpful for detecting cavities between teeth, where decay often begins.
3. What are the best ways to practice good oral hygiene at home?
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, making good oral health an integral part of your lifestyle will go a long way in preventing problems! The following steps can take your care to the next level:
- Using products that contain fluoride.
- Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing and flossing.
- Brushing or scraping your tongue.
- Replacing your toothbrush every three months; sooner if the bristles become frayed.
- Limiting snacks that are high in sugar.
- Eating a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables.
- Drinking plenty of water.
- Avoiding tobacco in any form.
4. Why are my teeth sensitive?
People with tooth sensitivity —also known as dentin hypersensitivity — feel pain when they consume foods or drinks that are hot or cold, sweet, or acidic. Sensitivity occurs when tooth enamel — which protects the tooth’s pulp and dentin — is thinned from repeated exposure to acidity and extreme temperatures. Sensitivity can also occur as a result of the following:
- Receding gums.
- Tooth grinding (bruxism) during sleep.
- Chipped or fractured teeth.
- DIY tooth whitening using over-the-counter products.
- Orthodontics and fillings.
It’s important to see your dentist to determine the cause of your tooth sensitivity and to receive appropriate treatment. Our blog post —“What You Need to Know About Tooth Sensitivity” — covers this topic in detail.
5. Is it normal for gums to bleed?
In a word, no. As Martin Dentistry sums it up: “Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, which is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline. When plaque and tartar irritate the gums, they can become inflamed and bleed easily. Bleeding gums can also be caused by brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with bristles that are too firm.”
By the way, the longer plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more damage they can do. You can’t get rid of tartar by brushing and flossing. Only a professional dental cleaning can remove it. If left untreated, early gum disease — known as gingivitis — can progress to advanced gum disease — known as periodontitis, which is one of the leading reasons for tooth loss in adults.
Other causes of bleeding gums include:
- Diabetes.
- Blood-thinning medications.
- Pregnancy.
- Smoking.
- Nutrient deficiencies.
Even if you think the cause of your bleeding gums is mechanical — such as brushing too hard — don’t diagnose yourself! Scheduling an appointment with your dentist is the only way to receive an accurate diagnosis and timely, appropriate treatment. Our blog post — “What You Need to Know About Bleeding Gums” — covers this topic in detail.
6. How can I improve the whiteness of my teeth?
Everyone wants a radiant smile! However, you need to be careful how you go about it! Whitening toothpastes can be effective in removing surface stains from tooth enamel, and are generally safe when used according to label directions or as advised by your dentist. Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening strips and gel trays have the risk of being misused — such as being left on far longer than label directions state, and/or used too frequently — which can wear away enamel and cause tooth sensitivity.
A professional teeth whitening procedure by a dentist is the most effective — and safest — option. An in-office whitening procedure can produce a result lasting up to three years with proper care — whereas OTC treatments may only last a few months. Avoid causes of staining, such as tobacco use, coffee, tea and red wine. If you drink coffee or tea daily, brush your teeth as soon as possible after each cup, or rinse your mouth with water if brushing isn’t possible.
Professional whitening treatments are also available as a take-home kit option. If this is your choice, your dentist will take impressions and fashion custom-fitted trays to ensure a perfect fit and distribution of the whitening gel. This option does not achieve the immediate results of an in-office treatment, but is ultimately just as effective and safe. Our blog post — “What You Need to Know About Professional Teeth Whitening” — covers this topic in detail.
However, adults ages 50 years and over who are starting to notice yellowing often assume their enamel is discolored, when in fact the dentin is showing through because tooth enamel is wearing off. Dentin is the layer of the tooth just below the enamel, and is naturally a yellowish color. Using a whitening toothpaste or OTC whitening products can further erode the already-thin remaining enamel — thereby making the problem even worse. Should this be the case, your dentist may recommend composite bonding, veneers or dental crowns to safely achieve the desired result.
7. Which is better – a manual or an electric toothbrush?
In the realm of oral hygiene, this has become a matter of debate, with many people relying on their dentist to provide the right answer. But don’t be surprised if your dentist answers your question by recommending a manual toothbrush, and another patient’s question by recommending an electric (also known as a powered) toothbrush! It depends upon which is better for your individual situation.
An electric toothbrush may be recommended for those who wear metal braces, have manual dexterity issues or are at risk for periodontal disease. According to Colgate, some research suggests that it can be more effective than a manual toothbrush in maintaining gum health and reducing tooth decay. An 11-year study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that using an electric toothbrush resulted in 22% less pocket depth and gum recession and 18% less tooth decay progression. Electric toothbrush users also maintained 19.5% more teeth in their mouth than manual brushers. Other research from 18 studies supports this finding, showing that sonic toothbrushes significantly decreased plaque and gingivitis more effectively than manual toothbrushes over three months.
For healthy people with healthy teeth and gums, a manual toothbrush can do the job just fine! However, as mentioned earlier, be sure to replace it every three to four months, or when the bristles show signs of wear. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, it’s probably time for a new one!
The Take-Home Message
As we always say, your dentist is your partner in oral health! Never hesitate to ask any questions you may have, and don’t fear embarrassment that your dentist might think it’s a “dumb” question! Dentists want to share their knowledge and educate their patients so they can enjoy a great smile for a lifetime!
At NK Family Dental, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including dental, orthodontic and periodontal services. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.
Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs. Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.
We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!
We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.
Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!