Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Fear
The overwhelming fear of dental appointments can be a common cause of anxiety. Many people visualize a drill-wielding man in a white coat just waiting to cause pain and remove teeth. The reality, however, is very different. The comfort, relaxation and happiness of the patient are embedded deep at the heart of any good dental practice. Our staff will do whatever they can to reduce anxiety, alleviate fears and provide painless, quick treatments.
Home Care
Brushing and flossing are of paramount importance to oral hygiene. Though regular professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar and debris, excellent home care methods are equally valuable. Proper brushing and flossing can enhance the health of the mouth, make the smile sparkle and prevent serious diseases.
Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where the gums and teeth meet.
Use small circular motions to gently brush the gum line and teeth.
Do not scrub or apply too much pressure to the teeth, as this can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
Brush every surface of every tooth, cheek-side, tongue-side, and chewing surfaces. Place special emphasis on the surfaces of the back teeth.
Use back and forth strokes to brush the chewing surfaces.
Brush the tongue to remove fungi, food and debris.
Children’s First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that parents should make an initial “well-baby” appointment with a dentist approximately six months after the emergence of the first tooth, or no later than the child’s first birthday. Although this may seem surprisingly early, the incidence of infant and toddler tooth decay has been rising in recent years. Tooth decay and early cavities can be exceptionally painful if they are not attended to immediately, and can also set the scene for poor oral health in later childhood.
This “happy visit” will be at your child’s pace. We want to establish a happy connection between your child and our office. Associated fear is the hardest obstacle to overcome for dental patients. Starting to ease that fear at an early age is key.