Question 1

My morning doesn’t start until I’ve had my first cup of tea. How bad is this for my teeth?

Accepted Answer

Tea and coffee are safe to drink in moderation. However, over time, large amounts can cause staining and damage. In addition to caffeine, tea and coffee contain chromogens, deeply pigmented molecules that adhere to dental enamel. They also contain tannins, which boost a chromogen molecule’s ability to attach to dental enamel. Black tea is worse than black coffee, because coffee is lower in tannins.

Question 2

How can I protect my teeth from damage?

Accepted Answer

The enamel on our teeth is hard, but as we all know, it can be chipped and cracked. In addition to following the instructions of your hygienist, here are some other ways you can protect your teeth:

. Avoid chewing ice, cracking nut shells, or opening packages with your teeth.
. Avoid “hard foods” such as popcorn.
. Limit acidic soft drinks and sugary foods that stick to your teeth.
. Decide against tongue and lip piercings, which can fracture teeth and increase infection risk.

Question 3

Should I update my manual toothbrush to an electric?

Accepted Answer

When used appropriately, a manual toothbrush is as effective as a powered toothbrush. The key is to use a soft-bristle brush for at least one minute, using moderately soft, short strokes at a 45-degree angle to the gums. Start at one place and continue across the arch of teeth, covering the entire tooth surface – inner, outer, and chewing.

And try to remember, plaque is like wet bread – in other words, mush!  You do not have to brush hard or long, just make sure you cover each tooth at the gumline at a 45-degree angle from the inside and the outside.

Question 4

I’m pregnant. Is it safe for me to go to the dentist?

Accepted Answer

Congratulations! Yes, you should continue to see your dentist, as pregnancy can increase certain dental issues. Be sure to inform your dentist that you are pregnant and if you’re experiencing any changes in your oral health.

Question 5

When should my child receive his/her first dental check-up?

Accepted Answer

This varies from child to child as it really depends on their willingness to have a stranger look into their mouth. We recommend they accompany their parents when they come for a checkup or are bringing older siblings for one. This will familiarize them with the office, and they will get to watch mommy and daddy or big sister or brother get their teeth cleaned. Then afterward the hygienist can ask if it is okay to take a look at the child’s teeth. If they cooperate, then we schedule an initial checkup; if not, we wait until the next checkup with a family member and try again.

Question 6

Are dental X-rays safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. New X-ray machines limit the low-dose radiation to a beam that targets only the areas needing to be filmed, faster film speeds allow for shorter exposure times, and the use of film holders prevents slipping, reducing the need for repeated exposure due to retakes. Stray radiation is almost non-existent with the use of modern dental X-ray machines, but the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protect against even that possibility.

Question 7

I’ve heard that my silver-colored fillings contain mercury. Should I have them replaced?

Accepted Answer

Dental amalgam (silver) fillings contain silver, tin, copper, and liquid mercury, which are combined to form an inert (non-active) alloy. According to the FDA, CDC, the American Dental Association (ADA), and a number of other public health agencies, there is no link between this type of filling and any known health issue. Because of speculation and controversy, amalgam is the most researched and tested dental filling material on the market.

Question 8

Why don’t my dentures fit right anymore?

Accepted Answer

The tissues and bones of your mouth may shrink (atrophy) with the passage of time or with the gain or loss of body weight, causing a change in the fit of your dentures. A simple reline may help them fit snugly again. However, if you’ve worn your dentures for a number of years, or the bases are too far out of shape, it may be time for replacements. It is counterproductive to use more denture adhesive to try to make them hold better, because this may lead to faster bone loss and additional problems with the fit of your dentures.

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