FAQ’S: COMMON QUESTIONS
What is Calculus / What is tartar ?
Tartar ( or calculus ) is yellow or brown crusty, mineralized plaque. It can contribute to gum disease and can be removed only by a dental professional.
I’ve never had a cavity. So why do I need regular checkups?
Dentists checks for more than decay during exams. They look for early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other problems.
Are X-rays necessary?
X-ray reveal problems that dentists can’t see with the naked eye, such as decay between or damage to the bone caused by gum disease. Early detection of these and other problems can prevent extensive damage and avoid expensive treatments. Your dentist will decide how often you need X-rays and will protect you with leaded aprons that help reduce the radiation to which you’re exposed to negligible amounts. If you’re pregnant or think you may be, tell your dentist about it. X-rays can possibly be delayed until after the baby is born. For more information on X-rays click here.
What is OPG X-ray ?
An Orthopantomogram (OPG), also known as an "orthopantogram" or "panorex", is a panoramic scanning dental X-ray of the upper and lower jaw. Normal dental X-ray film is placed inside the mouth and covers only 3 to 4 teeth at a time. So some patients do get gag reflex while taking X-ray and to cover full mouth 10 such X-rays are needed. While in OPG film is outside the mouth and in single X-ray all the teeth as well as TM joint and maxillary sinus can be viewed. Comparatively patient is exposed to less radiation and it is less expensive.
What should I do if I chip a tooth or one is knocked out?
If a tooth is chipped, clean the injured tooth with warm water. See your dentist as soon as possible and take any broken pieces; he or she may be able to bond them back onto the tooth. If tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown ( or top ), not the more delicate root, and rinse it off. Then place the tooth in milk, or wrap it in a damp cloth. If you get to the dentist within a half-hour, there’s a 90 percent chance that the tooth can be replanted.
Will my mouth change as I get older?
Your oral tissues do change as you age. Some common problems:
Dry Mouth – Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, and diuretics can cause dry mouth, which increases your risk of cavity because it reduces the saliva that washes away bacteria. Your dentist may suggest such treatment as artificial saliva or sugar free candy to stimulate saliva.
Root caries – Your gums often recede as you age, exposing the root and making root caries ( or root decay ) more likely. Root caries also can make teeth more sensitive. Your dentist may prescribe fluoride therapy and tell you to avoid sugary foods and drinks.
Darkening teeth – This is a natural process as you age. Ask your dentist about bleaching / teeth whitening, which may be able to lighten the teeth.
Is the mercury in amalgam fillings hazardous to my health?
A small number of people are allergic to mercury, and minute amounts of mercury vapor may be released when and grind your teeth. But worldwide studies conducted for more than a century have failed to link the mercury in amalgam fillings to medical problems. Amalgam is still a safe, cost-effective, and durable restorative material.
Why should I have a root canal? Can’t my dentist just remove my damaged tooth?
It’s much better to keep as many of your natural teeth as possible. When teeth are extracted and not replaced, teeth near the empty spaces begin to shift. This can affect your chewing ability, cause your mouth to sink in and your face to change appearance, and allow plaque to build up more easily. Also, if teeth are replaced, bridges may be more expensive than root canals.
What should I do if I lose a crown or a filling?
Call and schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. Don’t put the filling or crown back on the tooth ( it could cause damage or you may swallow it ). Just bring it with you to the dentist. In the meantime keep the area clean by performing your normal dental-hygiene routine of brushing and flossing.