Have Questions? We Can Help!
Patients are always invited to ask questions and express concerns at Memorial Park Dental Spa. We think that the more you understand about the health of your teeth and gums, the more at ease and competent you will be in caring for them. Please go through these frequently asked questions about dentistry and contact us if you have more questions about your oral health, a scheduled visit, or anything else. We’re happy to help.
How important is dental care?
Care for your teeth and gums involves brushing, flossing, and routine trips to the dentist. Taking good care of your teeth and gums safeguards not just the health of your mouth but also your general wellbeing. Patients need to be aware of the close relationship between their mouth and body. Dental care keeps your smile beautiful, long-lasting, and healthy since it:
- Helps prevent tooth decay
- Protects against gum disease
- Prevents bad breath
- Helps your smile look whiter, and more attractive
- Strengthens your teeth for long-lasting function
My teeth feel fine and look fine; do I still need to see a dentist?
Even though your teeth may feel normal, dental issues might exist without your knowledge. Early gum disease and tooth decay, for instance, may happen without any symptoms. Do not put off visiting the dentist until you are experiencing dental pain; by that time, it may be too late and more expensive restorative procedures may be necessary. Additionally, the only way to get rid of plaque that has solidified on your teeth and along your gum line is to have a professional dental cleaning.
Can I really change the way my smile looks without invasive procedures? Today’s advancements in cosmetic dentistry make it possible to correct nearly all smile imperfections. The appearance of your smile is important, for your self-esteem and quality of life. A cosmetic dentist can recommend a variety of treatment options to fit your personal budget, preferences and level of comfort. There are cosmetic services to correct teeth that are stained, gapped, chipped, missing, or misshapen. Our practices can help you smile with confidence by offering the following cosmetic solutions:
- Professional teeth whitening
- Tooth-colored fillings and bonding
- Tooth replacement and full smile makeovers
- Veneers
- Invisalign
What should I look for when choosing the right dentist for me in the Houston area?
Choosing a dentist that is qualified and one that you and your family feel comfortable with is very important. During your initial visit, ask yourself the following questions to help you determine if the dentist is the right one for you:
- Was the appointment convenient to schedule and get to?
- Is the office environment clean and does it feel welcoming?
- Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
- Does the dentist or hygienist explain procedures and educate you on proper dental care?
- Is information about cost and payment options disclosed to you upfront?
- Is the dentist a member of the ADA (American Dental Association)?
How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups? Never forget to brush your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes each session. You should also floss at least once each day. Choose toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this aids in cavity prevention. Also, don’t forget to brush your tongue to prevent bad breath and reduce plaque-causing bacteria. Avoid high-sugared foods and tobacco to keep your teeth free of decay, gum disease and staining. Finally, don’t forget to schedule your next dental checkup, which is typically recommended every six months.
At what age should I take my child to see the dentist for the first time?
Children should see a dentist for the first time no later than six months of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). We will check the health of the baby teeth that are erupting during this brief initial appointment and work to accustom the youngster to attending to the dentist. After the initial consultation, a dental checkup should be scheduled every six months.
How often should I see the dentist? Children, teens, and adults should all see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more frequently. We will advise you on how often you should see us for routine exams.
What is a cavity?
Small holes known as cavities develop inside teeth as a result of tooth decay. Plaque buildup on the tooth’s surface leads to the development of cavities. Injurious bacteria and acids that destroy dental enamel might develop when you consume sugars and starches. Untreated cavities might result in more serious dental health issues down the road. The preferred method of treating a cavity is with a filling. When all of the tooth decay has been removed, the cavity can be filled with composite resin, which is tooth-colored.
When should I change my toothbrush? If you are brushing your teeth twice a day as you should, your toothbrush will eventually become worn and less effective. In general, adults and children should change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions on when to change the toothbrush head. If you suffer from gum disease, we encourage you to change your toothbrush more frequently (every 4 to 6 weeks) to prevent bacteria from spreading. If the bristles of your toothbrush start to fray or you’ve been sick, go ahead and switch it out immediately.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is mostly brought on by the accumulation of germs and plaque. Gum disease develops gradually. The easier it is to treat, the earlier it is diagnosed. The early stage of gum disease is gingivitis. But if untreated, it can develop into advanced gum disease or gum disease, which can lead to permanent tooth and bone loss. Additionally, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and preterm birth have all been associated to gum disease. Gum disease can be avoided by brushing your teeth frequently, abstaining from cigarettes, and seeing the dentist every six months. Please let us know as soon as possible if you observe any of these typical indicators of gum disease:
- Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Receding gum line
- Abscessed teeth
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months? Although you may see your orthodontist on a frequent basis, your orthodontist is not responsible for monitoring your dental health. Going to the dentist every six months while in braces is actually even more important. With braces, food often gets trapped in places that is challenging for your toothbrush to reach. It is common for orthodontic patients to suffer from cavities and gingivitis if they do not see their dentist throughout their treatment. We can ensure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while in braces as well as prevent serious dental problems from disrupting your orthodontic treatment.
How do I schedule my next checkup?
We make it easy and convenient to schedule your next visit. Simply give us a call and our front desk staff will be happy to find a time that works best for your schedule. If you are a new patient, please let us know so that we can gather the necessary information to prepare for your appointment.
At Memorial Park Dental Spa, we want to help you understand your dental health. You will find that our dental staff takes extra time with each patient to ensure you are educated and confident in the health, function and appearance of your smile – regardless of your stage of life.