The following list of Frequently Asked Questions should be helpful in learning about your teeth in general:
What is gum disease and how do I prevent it?
What is plaque?
What causes crooked teeth?
How much will treatment cost?
What do I do in the case of a dental emergency?
What is a sealant?
What is an orthodontist?
Do braces hurt?
What can I do to keep my teeth healthy?
What is a root canal?
Should I have my Wisdom Teeth removed?
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What is gum disease and how do I prevent it?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a deterioration of the tissues surrounding the teeth caused by plaque. Signs of gum disease are red and swollen gums, frequent bleeding, tender gums and tooth loss. Gum disease is usually painless and hard to detect, so it is imperative you see a dentist regularly. Gum disease can be prevented by brushing and flossing, eating healthy, and visiting the dentist regularly.
What is plaque?
Plaque is the sticky substance created when the food you eat mixes with the bacteria in your mouth. Starchy and sugary foods are the most common cause of plaque. Plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if ignored. The best way to get rid of plaque is to brush and floss frequently, especially after meals and snacks.
What causes crooked teeth?
Although failure to brush, floss and visit the dentist can affect tooth growth and create a bad bite, most crooked teeth are caused by genetics. Uneven teeth and an uneven jaw line can lead to poor chewing and digestion and eventually cause tooth decay and gum disease. Early detection of crooked teeth can help the patient avoid severe treatments later in life. Correcting crooked teeth can also improve one of the most important features - your smile!
How much will treatment cost?
Depending on what your personal needs are, treatment costs can only be determined after a thorough check-up. Your dentist will give you an estimate for recommended treatment, or you may only be responsible for the cleaning costs if the dentist gives you a clean bill of health! Arbor Dental will help you evaluate and apply your dental insurance to make sure you get the most from your coverage.
What do I do in the case of a dental emergency?
Pain, swelling, lost fillings, fractured teeth.these are just a few of the dental emergencies that can happen. In case of emergency, Arbor Dental offers a 24-hour emergency phone line (303-425-1000), so you can get the immediate care you need.
What is a sealant?
A sealant is a plastic material applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect the enamel from damaging plaque and food acids. The sealant forms a nearly invisible barrier to decay causing agents. Many times, Dental Sealants are needed to protect the hard-to-reach teeth from damaging elements. The process is painless and usually performed on children's teeth. Your Arbor dentist may recommend preventative Dental Sealants for teeth that may be prone to early decay.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone specialized training to acquire the skills to treat specific oral problems like tooth malposition, bite disorders, and growth imbalances of the jaws. Arbor Dental works with several qualified orthodontists for your convenience.
Do braces hurt?
For the most part, the actual application of braces is painless. Your mouth may be a little sore for a few days following, but you will quickly become accustomed to the feeling. Today's braces have come a long way and are now designed for comfort and ease. Regular adjustments will help make sure the braces fit the patient perfectly.
What can I do to keep my teeth healthy?
Regular and proper brushing and flossing is imperative in maintaining good dental health. A flawless home care program combined with regular Arbor Dental visits can help continue good dental health.
What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy can restore severely a damaged tooth by removing deteriorating tissue from inside the tooth's root. Infection and inflammation are two signs of a damaged tooth. Heat and cold sensitivity, soreness, aches and chewing pain are also symptoms of an infected tooth. In some cases, the infected tooth will not cause any discomfort and can be very hard to detect. If you suspect you may have an unhealthy tooth, seeing a dentist is imperative. Your dentist may recommend a root canal to save the damaged tooth. With a root canal, your dentist will treat the inside, or root, of the tooth and cosmetically restore the outside to protect the fragile tooth and give it a healthy appearance. After root canal therapy, your tooth continues to be nourished by the surrounding gums and bone.
Should I have my Wisdom Teeth removed?
Wisdom Teeth (your third molars) are the last teeth to come in - and the ones least needed for good oral health. Many people run into problems such as crowding, gum disease, and tooth decay once their Wisdom Teeth start to surface. Many times, dentists can detect crooked Wisdom Teeth when they are "impacted" or under the gums, and prevent the problems that arise when they are pushed above the gum by removing them. Your Arbor dentist will be able to give you personalized recommendations for Wisdom Teeth treatment during your visit.
To learn more about dental implants in the Denver, CO, or to set up an appointment for a consultation, Email us or call Arbor Dental Group today.
