FAQ

You should visit your dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. Using this schedule, your dentist can detect cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, which helps you avoid complex procedures later. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that your brush cannot, which reduces the risk of cavities and promotes healthy gums.

If you have gum disease, are at a high risk of developing cavities, have braces, or are diabetic, your dentist could advise visiting every 3 to 4 months. If your mouth is healthy, you might schedule fewer appointments.

You will have your teeth and gums examined, and you may have X-rays taken and have your teeth cleaned during these visits. Routine dental visits are essential for your dental health and your personalized care.

You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush, as it is gentle on your teeth and gums, and follow that with fluoride toothpaste, since fluoride supports tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice daily, is also important. Angle your toothbrush at 45 degrees against your gum line and use gentle, brief strokes to thoroughly clean your teeth’s front, back, and chewing surfaces. Do not forget to softly brush your tongue to help eliminate bacteria, which supports fresher breath. Avoid brushing too hard, since this can harm the gums and damage your teeth.

Brushing is important, but flossing every day is just as necessary. Gently guide the floss between your teeth, forming a “C” below one tooth, and then carefully move it under the gumline. Move the floss between your tooth and your gum, up and down, to clean it, and then do the same for the tooth next to it. You should ensure not to force the floss into place, as it can harm your gums. Furthermore, many people damage their gums by not flossing the back teeth properly or using too much pressure.

Being consistent with these practices is very important for your dental health.

Dental X-rays performed digitally have made a considerable difference in dentistry, providing doctors with an invaluable tool to diagnose problems. Because modern imaging techniques use much less radiation than film X-rays, they are considered very safe when proper precautions are applied.

Although the American Dental Association (ADA) has revised its guidance, indicating that lead aprons and thyroid collars are generally not needed because new X-ray equipment reduces radiation exposure, even though the ADA has made new recommendations, California still requires the use of lead aprons for patients during dental X-rays to focus on the torso.

Identifying hidden problems in the mouth is the primary benefit of dental X-rays. They help dentists:

• Detect decay early in the spaces between teeth
• Find bones shrinking due to periodontal disease
• Spot unusual growths and
• Identify impacted teeth that are hard to notice during a routine checkup

If problems are found early, they can be managed quickly, stopping them from worsening.

Every patient’s dental X-ray schedule is different, depending on their needs. It is common to take X-rays for new patients to understand their oral health fully. If your teeth are healthy and you have a small risk of dental disease, X-rays could be taken once every year or two. However, those more likely to have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns may need regular imaging to keep a close eye on them.

The state regulates all dental offices in California for the proper use and support of X-ray equipment. They are carefully developed to protect patients and dental professionals from unnecessary radiation. The dentist will carefully examine your age, risk factors, symptoms, and history to decide on your correct X-ray schedule. Using this approach, you will surely enjoy the most of your imaging with the lowest amount of radiation. Using this approach ensures that your dental treatments are safe and work well.

Cavities or dental caries, are tooth decay that progressively shows up as various signs appear. Noticing these signs early makes treating them with less invasive treatment possible.

Cavities may not hurt initially, and the first noticeable signs are subtle, faint white spots on the teeth. They indicate areas on the teeth where the enamel has begun demineralization due to acid exposure. Sometimes, you could notice a light discoloration that is almost impossible to see. At this point, you could also notice your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods or drinks for a little while, but it usually goes away quickly. The tooth may also feel sticky or rough in the affected area.

As the decay advances, these early symptoms become more pronounced. The white spots can change to brown or black spots that are easier to spot. At this point, the sensitivity often intensifies and lasts longer, causing a sharp twinge or discomfort when exposed to heat, cold, or sweets. A sure sign is that even though the ADA has made new recommendations, California still requires using lead aprons for patients during dental X-rays to focus on the torso.

If the cavity reaches the softer inner layers of the tooth, the dentin and pulp, the symptoms intensify. If you have a persistent toothache, it is a clear sign that can feel as dull as a lingering ache or as sharp as a throbbing pain. You may find that the pain worsens when you bite or chew. More advanced symptoms include halitosis, bad taste from bacteria, and decay on the teeth. A severe infection in the tooth’s pulp could cause swelling near the tooth and sometimes an abscess on the gums that can also cause facial swelling and fever.

Any of these issues should prompt you to see a dentist. If you visit the dentist regularly, cavities can be detected and treated early, which will help your teeth avoid further damage and any additional problems.

Gingivitis is the first and usually reversible part of gum disease, when the gums become inflamed. Signs to watch out for are gums that look red, are swollen, or easily bleed while you brush or floss. The leading cause of this condition is when plaque, a film of bacteria, builds up at the gum line because teeth are not cleaned properly.

If gingivitis is not treated, it may lead to periodontitis, a more harmful and severe gum disease. As a result of periodontitis, the tissues that hold your teeth become damaged, which causes your gums to pull back and your bone to be lost. Infection cannot be cured at this point and may cause your teeth to loosen and fall out eventually.

Several factors can lead to gum disease, but poor oral hygiene is the leading cause. Other than infections, smoking weakens the body’s defenses and healing abilities, and genetics can make some individuals more likely to develop gum disease.

Decay can create a cavity that is easy to spot as a small hole or pit in the tooth. Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily helps remove plaque, so you should also make regular dental checkups.

Dentists play a crucial role in managing gum disease. Most cases of gingivitis are treated by having a dental professional remove the plaque and tartar. If the gums have become infected with periodontitis, you may need scaling and root planing to remove bacteria, prescription antibiotics, or, in severe cases, surgery by a periodontist. Taking immediate action at the start of gingivitis helps stop it from worsening and protects your oral health. Your dentist will offer personalized care plans to help you keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.

Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods may result from worn enamel, gum recession, cavities, cracks, or grinding. At home, use gentle toothpaste or lessen your intake of acidic foods. If the dentin is exposed, dentists may use sealants or gum grafts to cover the receded parts. If the decay is severe, you might be advised to have a root canal. Moreover, your dentist might offer a custom night guard that will help stop any harm caused by grinding.

Visiting your dentist regularly helps find out what is causing your sensitivity, and they can recommend ways to ease it.

A persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be quite embarrassing and usually marks an underlying health problem. In most cases, bad breath is caused by:

• Neglecting your oral hygiene
• Allowing food particles and bacteria to fester
• Gum disease, which produces foul-smelling compounds

Dry mouth could also lead to bad breath. When you have a dry mouth, medication could be a contributing factor or a condition that prevents saliva from cleaning your mouth. Smoking, garlic, onions, diabetes, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal issues can be other reasons for bad breath.

Your dentist will carefully examine you to determine what is causing your bad breath. If you have dental issues, they will address them, such as excessive plaque or gum disease, using professional cleanings or specific therapies. Your dentist could also recommend certain mouthwashes, tongue scrapers, or lifestyle changes.

For non-dental causes, dentists will recommend that you see a physician for further care. Taking care of your teeth at home and visiting the dentist often helps you avoid and manage bad breath.

Your dentist will use hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth and remove stains. Furthermore, laser whitening procedures that cost about $300 to $1,000 are used in the dental office, and they involve applying a strong gel activated by light for fast results. Your dentist could also recommend custom take-home trays. These trays, ranging from $200 to $500, use lower concentration gels that whiten your teeth gradually. Your dentist will ensure the prescription product is safe and works well for you.

You could feel that your gums are a bit sensitive or become irritated. If your teeth and gums are healthy, you are a suitable candidate. However, if you have fillings or crowns, you are not. Fillings or crowns are not whitened, so sensitive teeth may require different treatment.

The teeth whitening results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Your dentist will ensure the whitening procedure is safe and customized to you.

Dental veneers are placed over your teeth to help improve your smile. You can opt for any of the following options:

• Porcelain veneers cost between $800 and $2,500 per tooth. They are both durable and natural, lasting for 10 to 15 years.
• Composites have a price tag between $250 and $1,500, which is less expensive but wears out faster. They last between 5 and 7 years.

Veneers help you by correcting discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth, plus gaps or small misalignments. Expect minimal enamel removal before bonding the veneers. The veneer procedure will be done over 2 to 3 visits.

If your teeth are healthy, you qualify for veneers. Otherwise, you should have the decay treated first.

Anyone looking to align their teeth can choose between traditional braces and clear aligners. Because both types are different, the choice depends on the complexity of the case, aesthetic preferences, and lifestyle.

Traditional braces, which are usually made of metal, are still strong enough to address many orthodontic problems, including complex bite issues and significant misalignment. You can expect to pay between $3,000 and $7,000 for metal braces. Although they work very well, many people are concerned about their visibility. If you want something less conspicuous, ceramic braces are an alternative. Because they use tooth-colored or clear brackets, they suit adults and older teens well. Even so, ceramic braces are typically more expensive, ranging from $4,000 to $8,000, and are sometimes easier to stain.

If you prefer, clear aligners, like Invisalign, are removable and less visible. These custom-made trays are made to help move your teeth into place slowly. They are popular because they make it easier to keep your mouth clean by removing food and drink, and brushing and flossing.

Clear aligners are usually a good fit for mild to moderate cases, and the cost can be anywhere from $3,500 to $8,000. You should wear them 20 to 22 hours a day for them to work well.

No matter the technique, most orthodontic treatments take 6 months to 2 years, but complex cases may need more time. Your orthodontist is better placed to help you decide on the best treatment. They will examine your teeth closely, take X-rays, and may even use 3D imaging to assess your oral health and what you hope to achieve.

How much orthodontic treatment costs varies depending on:

• The complexity of your case
• The type of appliance you have chosen
• The duration of your treatment
• Where do you live in the state

Many orthodontic offices allow patients to pay in installments, and some of the treatment may be paid for by dental insurance.

Dental implants are screws made of titanium, placed in your jaw by surgery to hold crowns, bridges or dentures. They consist of the implant, abutment, and restoration, making them a firm and natural-looking alternative.

You are a good candidate if:

• You have healthy gums
• You have enough jawbone for dental implants (bone grafting is an option if needed)
• You keep your mouth clean

If you have uncontrolled diabetes or you are a heavy smoker, your treatment may be more complicated. However, smoking cessation programs can help. The process includes a consultation, 3D CBCT scans, implant placement, osseointegration over 3 to 6 months, abutment, and crown fitting. You may want to consider All-on-4 or teeth-in-a-day options.

The cost for dental implants is between $3,000 and $5,000 each, so ask your dentist about payment options. Going to a dentist with implantology training is best for the best outcomes.

A root canal may be necessary if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or injury, causing severe pain, sensitivity, swelling, or color changes. Your endodontist or dentist could perform a root canal to save your natural tooth, using anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable. Your dentist will assess the pulp, clean the canals, fill them with a biocompatible substance, and seal the tooth, often with a crown.

With advanced techniques, you can have a root canal treatment without feeling any pain. Treating dental problems early stops abscesses and helps prevent teeth from being lost. Your endodontist is trained to treat your tooth so it can function normally, and you will feel less pain.

Prices for dental services differ. A cleaning can cost $75 to $200, a filling $100 to $300, and an implant $3,000 to $5,000. It is best to obtain estimates that break down the costs.

When you have dental insurance, you usually pay deductibles, co-pays, and an annual limit of about $1,000 to $2,000. Seeing in-network dentists saves you money. Furthermore, Medi-Cal Dental helps eligible people with basic dental care. To make sure you get the most out of your insurance, confirm your coverage and get your pre-authorizations.

Several dental offices have payment plans or accept financing through CareCredit. Talk with your dentist about what treatments fit your budget and what you require.

A good way to find an honest dentist is to ask friends, family, or your doctor for recommendations. You can also look at reviews on Yelp, but check if they are genuine. Moreover, consider the dentist’s location, the services they offer, whether insurance is accepted, and the use of digital X-rays

You should also visit to assess the office atmosphere. Ask about their experience, treatment methods, and what they provide in emergencies. A consultation will help you evaluate if the dentist fits you right.

Many people feel anxious about the dentist, so you are not alone. Talk to your dentist about your fears to feel more comfortable. Try to relax by breathing deeply or listening to music when you are there. Also, dental offices often use soothing decor to help with fears.

As part of dealing with fearful or anxious patients, dentists use sedation treatments. These include nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation, which are administered depending on your needs and the treatment. Talk to your dentist about sedation options to experience a less stressful trip to the dentist.

Dry mouth, root decay, gum disease, and tooth loss are possible for seniors. To prevent these issues, keep up with your dental visits. If you have dry mouth due to your medication, you are more likely to develop cavities. Use saliva substitutes or chew sugar-free gum. If you have trouble using a toothbrush, opt for electric ones or try floss aids. Wash your dentures each day and visit your dentist regularly.

Choose dentists who focus on senior care so they can offer special solutions for you.