At Caring Dental of Spotswood, it’s our mission to make sure our patients are comfortable, no matter what treatment they may need. From our friendly team members to sedation dentistry, we do everything we can to live up to our name. From years of experience, we know that sometimes all a person needs to feel comfortable is information. To make sure you’re completely at ease when you visit, here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Q: How often should I go to the dentist?
A: The American Dental Association recommends that those with healthy teeth and gums see the dentist every six months. This frequency allows us to detect potential problems, such as gingivitis, before they become problematic. If you do have periodontal disease or another dental condition, you may be advised to visit the dentist more often to ensure that you keep your teeth where you belong — in your mouth.
Q: What can I expect at a typical cleaning and exam?
A: At a typical cleaning, a hygienist or dental assistant will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. They will then polish the teeth, removing surface stains and making your teeth look and feel their cleanest, and finish with flossing. As they work on your teeth, they will check your gums and mouth tissue for any irregularities. Depending on how long it’s been since your last exam, you may require dental x-rays; your dentist will use these images to evaluate your bite and the need for tooth restoration or replacement.
Q: I have severe dental anxiety. Is there anything you can do to help with that?
A: Sometimes, even a procedure as simple as a dental cleaning can exacerbate anxiety. If you feel anxious about any dental treatment, be sure to let your dentist know in advance. In our case, we use technology that is minimally invasive, preventing collateral damage and unnecessary pain. We can also use sedation therapy to make even the most anxious patients comfortable during their treatment.
Q: What does dental health have to do with my overall health?
A: Everything! For starters, periodontal disease is linked to heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and more. Jaw problems can cause headaches and earaches, as well as neck and shoulder pain. Missing teeth can cause misalignments and future tooth loss. Your mouth is just one small part of your entire system, and your dentist is an integral part of your healthcare team. Don’t make the mistake of minimizing your dental health, as it could cause unwanted systemic problems later.
Q: I’m unhappy with my smile, but isn’t cosmetic dentistry prohibitively expensive?
A: Each patient has different needs, so the only way to know for certain how we can improve your smile is to see you in person. Some of our most popular and effective cosmetic treatments, however, provide a lot of bang for your buck. For an almost immediate improvement in your smile, we may recommend whitening. For those who wish to change the shape, shade, or alignment of their teeth, we may recommend veneers. Both of these options are conservative, non-invasive, and affordable.
If you have other questions about dentistry, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are located in Spotswood, New Jersey, and look forward to helping you have the smile you’ve always wanted.
