In this modern age, one of the factors to life expectancy is influenced by dental health

The following are answers to common questions regarding dental care: 

1. When is an appropriate age for children to first seek dental care? 

Pediatric dentists suggest when a child turn two years old, parents are encouraged to bring them to visit a dental clinic. This allows them to be comfortable at a young age to become familiar with a dental office atmosphere, dentists, and dental assistants. It will help eliminate their fears when they sit on the dental chair. From ages 4 to 6, X-ray scans can be taken to check for cavities or other potential dental problems. After that, it is recommended to have routine check ups every 6 months.

2. Why is it important to get annual teeth cleaning (Prophylaxis)?

Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a crucial dental procedure to prevent the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease; both of which can occur when bacteria from plaque colonize on the gingival (gums) tissue, either above or below the gum line. Majority of dental plaque cannot be removed by a standard toothbrush. Dental health professionals use an ultrasonic scalers to remove dental plaque. A reminder is that receiving a teeth cleaning does not whiten teeth, this involves a separate procedure. General teeth cleaning does not require the use of anesthetics. It is normal for an individual to feel slightly uncomfortable or minor pain during a routine teeth cleaning. This will stop occurring with annual teeth cleaning and proper preventative care. Deep cleaning requires the use anesthetics and usually takes two or more dental sessions. This is a special procedure to treat severe gingivitis and periodontal disease by removing dental plaque, dental tartar, necrosis tissue in gums or periodontal pocket.

3. What causes bad breath or bad taste in the mouth? 

Mouth odors are commonly induced by cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Mouth wash solution can only help reduce the bad taste and bad breath temporarily. In order to eliminate the problem, please visit your dentist as soon as possible.

4. What causes bleeding when I brush my teeth?

If you find your gums bleed when you brush, you should be alarmed. It can infer that you have inflammation in your gums, also known as gingivitis. It may still be non-destructive and treatment will be easy and reversible. However, further complications can lead to periodontal disease, where treatment is difficult, costly, and usually irreversible.

5. Dentists always encourage the use dental floss, why?

In dental health, flossing is a simple, economic and effective routine for preventive care. Dental floss can remove the food debris between your teeth and delay the formation of tartar or plaque. It is recommended to use dental floss at least once a day along with brushing your teeth before going to bed. After that, please try not to eat or drink anything besides water. Do not overlook the power of dental floss, it is essential for good and effective oral care. 

6. What are wisdom teeth? Why do they need to be extracted? 

Wisdom teeth are located in the very back of the mouth. The wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt, usually appearing in late teens or early twenties. It is mostly hidden under the gums and not easy to clean. Wisdom teeth can cause cavities and gum infections of neighboring teeth. Generally, around 16 years of age is the best time for wisdom teeth removal, since the root is not completely formed, which makes the operation much easier. It gets progressively more difficult as people age and can cause irritating dental problems.

7. What is the importance orthodontia?

Abnormal occlusion of the teeth can affect the mandibular or maxillary and facial development. Generally, by 12 years of age, this can be treated by an orthodontist. Children as young as 7 years of age can also be evaluated by an orthodontist. The earlier they receive treatment, the easier and more effective the outcome.

8. What are dental implants? 

A missing or extracted tooth can be replaced by implants. An implant is an artificial tooth root that is used as a replacement tooth or bridge on the mandible or maxilla jaw. In these thirty years, dental implants have advanced substantially, all by the effort of dental health professionals and science researchers. It is a significant achievement that also plays a role in longevity. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach me at 510 873-0876. Best wishes!