WE RECEIVE A LOT OF QUESTIONS from patients and parents of patients so we thought it would be helpful to round up the most commonly asked questions.
1. How often should I visit the dentist?
As a rule of thumb, twice a year is advisable though it may also vary depending on your individual circumstances. Regular dental visits are critical for combating tartar buildup, maintaining excellent oral health and catching problems early. Don't wait until you are in pain or have a problem. We make seeing your dentist convenient by having a team of dentists and specialists available 6 days a week. Scheduling is also easy with online booking. You can also reach us by phone or text at (650) 871-1400!
2. Why do I need a filling if my tooth doesn’t hurt?
Typically, a cavity doesn’t start to hurt when it’s still in the outer layer of the tooth. This is the best time to get a filling and to prevent it from getting deeper. If you see your dentist regularly, we can spot trouble early on before it hurts. Leaving untreated cavities can quickly get worse and lead to needing a root canal.
3. Why are my teeth turning yellow?
Over time, our teeth naturally get darker or more yellow, but tooth discoloration can also be the result of trauma or consuming a lot of substances that leave surface level stains. Internal stains can also occur when the enamel of your tooth erodes to expose your dentin which is darker. If you're concerned about the brightness of your smile, let us know and we can help you make it shine again with several options including a professional teeth whitening for safe and fast results. You can also join our Whitening for Life program. For a one-time set fee, you receive a custom whitening tray and a bleaching gel every 6 months for as long as you are a patient!
4. When should my child start having dental exams?
A good time to start coming to the dentist is when the first tooth appears! We have an in-house pedodontist, a dentist for kids, who specializes in treating even the fussiest kids and can help guide your child to a lifelong path of a healthy smile.
5. Do I really need to floss?
While it may not be everyone's favorite activity, brushing and flossing mechanically remove food and bacteria from the tooth surfaces. It's also the best way to prevent cavities and gum disease. But brushing cannot reach the spaces in between your teeth so that's where the importance of flossing comes into play. When bacteria and food sit next to your teeth for extended periods of time, plaque will begin to harden from the minerals that naturally exist in your saliva and a tough deposit will start to form that only a dental hygienist can remove through a dental cleaning. By flossing daily, you can remove the bacteria before it has a chance to harden, keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
