"Let our family be your family dentist."
Porteous Pointers:
Question: How often should a person get their teeth cleaned?
It depends on your individual need. Most patients should have a cleaning twice per year. Most insurance plans cover this. Depending on skills in plaque removal, individual plaque accumulation, history of gum and/or bone disease or signs of gum inflammation (tender, bleeding puffing tissue) we will recommend cleanings 3 or 4 times per year.
Question: What type of toothbrush is best?
Whether you choose a manual or automatic (battery or electric) the brush should always have soft bristles. Use of anything else will contribute to gum recession, abrasion of the root surface and sensitivity. If using an automatic brush, let the brush to the work. Avoid the tendency to scrub back and forth. If using a manual brush do not scrub horizontally using excess pressure. Thorough but gentle brushing is key, positioning the bristles at the gum line, at a 45 degree angle.
Question: I brush multiple times per day, do I have to floss too?
Because bacteria collect below the gum line and in between the teeth, not reached by tooth brushing alone the answer is absolutely, Yes! Knowing the proper technique will make the task easier. The proper flossing technique is critical. Ask your dental professional to show you.
Question: Are silver (amalgam) fillings harmful?
In the past 2 decades there have been numerous studies conducted by Dental Associations, Dental Schools, the FDA, independent researchers, and others regarding the safety of dental amalgam. The consistent conclusion is that amalgam is a safe, affordable and durable restoration choice for patients and the concern of harmful affects are unwarranted.
Question: I sleep with my Denture in, is this OK?
A patient wearing removable appliances (partials or dentures) should remove them while sleeping. Gum irritation and inflammation will likely occur. It is like always going to bed with shoes and socks on, the oral tissue needs to breath. The appliances should not be left to dry and could be placed in a cleaning solution over night.
Question: I have a broken tooth, does it need to be removed?
We are in the business of saving teeth. Upon radiograghic evaluation a fractured tooth can be saved, either by a root canal and or a crown in most cases. We will inform you if the tooth is hopeless and requires removal.
Question: Is the dark area around my crown, decay?
Sometimes, but not always. If your crown is porcelain fused to metal (PFM), it could be that over time the gum tissue has receded exposing the metal margin of the crown. This does not mean the crown has failed and needs to be remade. If you are unhappy with the appearance, an all porcelain crown with no metal is an option.
 |