A General Dentistry Office Discusses Commonly Asked Oral Health Questions

There is plenty of advice out there when it comes to oral health questions, but some of the best advice always comes from a general dentistry office.

Asking questions is vital in maintaining optimal oral health for a lifetime. We answer some of the most recurring questions below.

Common dental health questions

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

Professional dental cleanings and examinations should be done every six months, no less than twice per year. No matter how diligent your at-home oral hygiene routine is, nothing can replace dental cleaning at a general dentistry practice.

Along with the cleaning, the dentist will take an X-ray of your mouth. This will allow the dentist to spot any problem areas that might need extra attention.

Keep in mind that cavities can still be present even if you do not feel pain. Cavities can appear between teeth and in places unseen by the naked eye. A thorough examination by a dentist is the best course of action in protecting your teeth from decay.

What is the best way to take care of my teeth?

Brushing and flossing is the standard way to prevent tooth decay. Make sure you are buying the right products to help you protect your teeth, not damage them.

Always purchase toothbrushes with soft bristles. Medium and firm bristled toothbrushes can cause damage to teeth and gums. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and fortify tooth structure.

Brushing too hard is another common pitfall. Be sure you are brushing lightly twice per day. Brushing too vigorously will strip enamel and cause gum irritation.

Maintain a healthy diet by limiting snacks and eating fruits and vegetables. Drink water after meals to prevent bacterial growth.

Tobacco is detrimental to oral and overall health, and it is smart to stay away from it.

How can I make my teeth whiter?

There are a few ways to whiten your teeth. At-home kits are less costly than in-office treatments. However, do-it-yourself whitening will not last as long or be as effective as professional whitening.

Contact your dentist to ensure your at-home whitening kit is safe for your teeth.

Avoiding coffee, wine and tobacco will also help keep your teeth from yellowing over time.

Is mouthwash good for you?

Mouthwash is not completely essential in your oral hygiene routine, but it certainly does not hurt. Most mouthwashes contain fluoride which remineralizes the enamel and fights cavities.

Do not use mouthwash that contains alcohol. This ingredient tends to dry the mouth and can cause bad breath.

Why do I have sensitive teeth?

Sensitivity is mainly due to receding gums, teeth grinding during sleep and tiny fractures in teeth. You can try using a sensitivity toothpaste for at-home care.

If the sensitivity persists or worsens, visit your dentist. A visit to a general dentistry office will help you get to the bottom of what is causing sensitivity.

When should I schedule my child’s first visit?

Even though your child will eventually lose their first set of baby teeth, it is important to take extra care of these vulnerable teeth. When baby teeth are neglected, they can become riddled with cavities. Tooth loss as a child can alter how adult teeth form.

Your child can get their first cavity as early as age two. For this reason, it is best you take your child for an examination and checkup during by age 1. When the first tooth comes in, it is time to see the dentist.

Do you have more questions?

Call our office to ask any other questions. We are happy to help!

Request an appointment here: https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com or call Preferred Dental Center at (210) 822-8500 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.

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