Common Questions General Dentistry Checkups
1. How often are general dentistry checkups needed?
It is recommended that a general dentistry checkup take place at least twice a year or every six months. These appointments are vital to oral and dental health, and when they are done every six months, the general dentist has a chance to monitor the teeth and gums.
2. Will I get cavities without general dentistry checkups?
When general dentistry checkups are skipped, the patient is more likely to miss a cavity. Oftentimes, only a general dentist can detect the cavity, whether it be extremely small or just difficult to diagnose. Patients will not necessarily get cavities without these appointments, but if they do have one and they are not able to detect it in time, the teeth and gums may suffer.
3. What happens during a general dentistry checkup?
During a general dentistry checkup appointment, the dentist will carefully examine the teeth and gums to check for any abnormalities. X-rays may be taken once a year to check for any internal problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Additionally, the general dentist will offer the patient recommendations on certain things to help improve oral and dental health.
4. What happens if I do not get a regular checkup?
Patients that skip their general dentistry checkups are more likely to develop cavities or infections within their mouths. A lot of dental problems are internal and cannot necessarily be seen by an untrained person. Not having a regular exam or cleaning with a general dentist puts the patient at more risk. It is always best to maintain at least two routine visits a year to ensure good oral health.
About Braces
1. Why should i get my child checked out with braces at the age of 7?
Some orthodontic problems are better treated at an early age i.e. the ages between 7 and 10. This is called as phase 1 or intervention orthodontics. Treatment at this time helps the phase 2 of the treatment to be completed at an easier and faster rate and also helps budget the treatment. Treatment at this time for certain cases is advisable cause the jaws are just developing and growing and intervening at this time will cause benefits in future treatment.
2. Are there any alternatives to braces?
Unfortunately there are no alternatives to braces. However the metal braces can be replaced by more cosmetic options like ceramic braces and tooth colored wires. clear aligners and lingual braces that are placed at the back of the teeth are now advised instead of traditional braces. Many individuals now opt for veneers over braces. However this does not serve the purpose of correcting bites and also the veneers need to be replaced over time thus making the overall maintenance expensive.
3. Isn’t it a waste of money to start treatment before my childs milk teeth fall off?
Not necessarily. Many problems like cross bites, narrow jaws, habits, open bites, large over bites etc are much easier to correct at an early age and delaying the treatment can result in difficulty in treating, unstable results, abnormal jaw growths, abnormal occlusion and wearing of the natural teeth.
Crown & Bridges
1. What is a dental crown?
A dental crown completely encases a damaged tooth with a custom design, custom fit cap that fits perfectly over a damaged tooth. The crown thereby restores full functionality to a tooth.
2. What is a dental bridge?
A bridge, also known as a fixed prosthesis, is made to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike dentures it cannot be removed daily and cleaned. Bridges can be supported in any of three ways:
- By natural teeth
- By implants
- By a combination of teeth and implants
3. What is the material used for crowns and bridges?
There are 3 primary materials- all ceramic (porcelain), porcelain fused to metal, or gold.
Root Canal Treatment
1. What is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp ie the nerve of the root is removed because it has been irreversibly damaged or infected due to decay, trauma or injuries. The therapy involves removal of the pulp throughout the root, cleaning and shaping the root and filling it with a synthetic polyester root canal filling material.
2. When do I need a Root Canal?
You need a root canal in case you have one of the following symptoms:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Discomfort when chewing or biting
- Dull ache or severe pain, Discomfort that wakes you up at night
- Your dentist has diagnosed the need for endodontic treatment either by clinical exam or x-ray.
3. Will it hurt during the procedure?
With modern techniques and local anesthesia, its likely not to hurt during the procedure. However certain patients feel slightly sensitive.
4. Will my tooth need any additional treatment after a root canal?
After a root canal, a final restoration will be placed on the tooth. After the restoration a crown i.e. cap will be placed on the tooth since the tooth becomes brittle after root canal procedures and its necessary to prevent the forces acting on the tooth.
Get In Touch With Us
Please submit your details.
Our experts will call you and will explain you clearly.