An exam and x-rays are needed in order for the doctor to properly diagnose what type of treatment is needed. The doctor can only see above the gum line. X-rays allow the doctor to see below the gum line and properly diagnose treatment.

Amalgam fillings are often used at Family Dental Center. The amalgam material has been around for years, and has been shown to be a very strong and durable restoration. In fact, the ADA, FDA and AMA (American Medical Association) have shown it to be a very good restorative material with no health risks.

The ADA has endorsed fluoride as a cavity preventer for years. It works by creating a harder enamel, more resistant to the harmful effects of the acid released by the bacteria known to cause cavities. Research has also indicated that fluoride is somehow involved in the process of inhibiting the bacteria itself.

While not all patients need their wisdom teeth out, our dentists may recommend it to you. This is specific to each patient, but a few reasons we may recommend removal of your wisdom teeth may include: lack of room for them to erupt straight, cavities on them due to inability to keep clean, increased plaque accumulation on them or pain noted by the patient in the area.

Sealants are preventive “coverings” for your teeth that have deeper grooves on the chewing surfaces. It is a non-invasive process where your hygienist places a resin material on the grooves, smoothing them out, to prevent food and bacteria from getting caught in the areas. They are usually recommended for your 6 year and 12 year molars, but may be recommended on other teeth as well.

Our dentists at Family Dental Center recommend any ADA endorsed toothpaste that contains fluoride. There are a variety of flavors and “specialty” toothpastes that help certain problem areas. At your dental visit, your dentist can recommend a specific product based on your dental exam.

An electric toothbrush is a great option for a toothbrush because often, they have timers to help the patients brush for the recommended 2 minutes. Also, the vibrations have been shown to remove more plaque and food than manual toothbrushes.

X-rays are usually taken yearly to help assist the dentist in diagnosing cavities between the teeth. It is also used to monitor changes in the bone level, which is associated with overall periodontal health.

It is recommended that children stop using their pacifier no later than age 3. If the habit continues, they can develop crooked teeth and/or bite problems.

One possible reason children may grind their teeth may be due to the unstable bite that is present with baby teeth. As children grow, baby teeth are lost and adult teeth come in. These changes occur over a number of years, and during that time, children may grind. Once the bite stabilizes with adult teeth, often times, children stop grinding their teeth.

It is recommended that patient’s floss at least once a day. Research has shown that it takes 24 hours for the demineralization process to start. So, to help reduce the amount of bacteria and food between the teeth, it is best to floss at least once a day.

Unfortunately, a new cavity can form under a crown or filling if a patient’s home care and diet are not ideal. A cavity needs three things to form: a tooth, a carbohydrate food source and bacteria. So, if a patient properly cleans the tooth from bacteria and food, the likelihood of developing a cavity dramatically decreases. Patients have even more of a chance at being cavity free if their diet is high in protein, fruits and vegetables with minimal carbohydrates and sugars.