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What is plaque?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed regularly, it can lead to cavities and gum disease.
How can I ensure fresh breath?
Maintain good oral hygiene, drink water, avoid tobacco and certain foods, chew sugar-free gum, and consider mouthwash or professional dental cleanings.
Can gum disease cause health problems beyond the mouth?
Yes, it’s linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and pregnancy complications.
How does alcohol affect oral health?
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, dry mouth, increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
How do I prepare for a dental visit?
Brush and floss, provide a full medical history, list medications, inform of any anxiety, and ask questions about your oral health.
Why are dental X-rays important?
They help detect issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye, like cavities between teeth, abscesses, tumors, or impacted teeth.
Why should I visit the dentist regularly?
For professional cleanings, early detection and treatment of dental issues, guidance on oral care, and maintaining overall oral health.
What is a pediatric dentist?
A dentist specialized in the oral health of children from infancy through the teen years.
What is orthodontics?
A branch of dentistry that specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as malocclusions.
What’s the purpose of a dental crown?
To cover and protect a damaged tooth, restore its appearance, hold a bridge in place, or cover an implant.
What are dental braces composed of?
They consist of brackets (attached to teeth), archwires (that guide tooth movement), and bands or ties (that secure the wire to brackets).
How do I manage tooth pain at home?
Rinse mouth, floss to remove debris, take over-the-counter pain relievers, avoid temperature extremes, and see a dentist as soon as possible.
Why do dentists take dental impressions?
To create a model of the patient’s mouth for treatments like crowns, bridges, dentures, orthodontic devices, or other dental restorations.
How do dentists fix broken or cracked teeth?
Treatments include bonding, crowns, veneers, root canals, or extraction, depending on the severity.
What is teeth grinding?
Teeth grinding or bruxism can wear down teeth, cause headaches, or jaw pain. It often occurs during sleep.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushed.
Can I exercise after a dental procedure?
Depending on the procedure, it’s often recommended to wait 24-48 hours before engaging in strenuous activity to allow for proper healing.
Why should I avoid snacking on sugary foods and drinks between meals?
Frequent exposure to sugar increases the risk of cavities as bacteria in the mouth convert sugars to acid, which can erode enamel.
How can I get rid of tooth stains?
Regular dental cleanings, teeth whitening treatments, and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help reduce or eliminate tooth stains.
When should children first visit the dentist?
Ideally, a child’s first dental visit should be by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears.
How does coffee affect the teeth?
It can stain the teeth and, if consumed frequently, can contribute to tooth decay due to its acidic nature.
EXCEL DENTAL
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The team at Excel Dental in Downtown Hamilton Ontario is here to provide you with the best experience possible with state-of-the-art technology and comfort in mind. Ask about our digital scanner, microscope, and 3-D X-rays in-house so you don’t have multiple visits.