FAQs – Bright Smiles Family Dental

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions…


Q: How can I prevent gum disease?

A:  Good oral hygiene is essential. Professional cleanings are also extremely important because once plaque has hardened and build up, or become tartar, only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove it.

You can help stop gingivitis before it develops by:

  • Proper brushing and flossing to remove plaque and debris and control tartar buildup
  • Eating right to ensure proper nutrition for your jawbone and teeth
  • Avoiding cigarettes and other forms of tobacco
  • Scheduling regular checkups with your dentist
  • Prevention and early treatment is the only way to avoid invasive surgery and tooth loss.
Q:Is there an alternative to metal braces for crooked teeth?

A:  Metal braces are not the only solution for crooked teeth. Invisalign® uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth in the same amount of time it takes metal braces. The aligners can be removed for meals and brushing.
Cosmetic bonding, LUMINEERS®, or porcelain veneers are another option to consider that give the illusion of perfectly straight teeth. The veneers cover the front of the teeth to create a perfect smile. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Malcolm at Bright Smiles Family Dentistry to discuss the option that is right for you.

Q:  I cracked my tooth. What are some options to fix it?

A:  At Bright Smiles Family Dental, we offer a few services to fix cracked teeth. For minor cracks and chips, we offer composite bonding, a procedure in which composite resin is smoothed onto the tooth, and then polished to blend in with surrounding teeth. For more severe cracks, dental crowns can be used. Crowns cover the entire surface of the tooth, and act like a protective shell. We also offer porcelain veneers, which cover just the front of the tooth. Dr. Malcolm will be able to recommend an option that is right for you.

Q:  Why is visiting the dentist so important?

A:   Visiting the dentist on a regular,  basis will not only help keep your teeth and oral health in tact, It will also help keep the rest of your body healthy.

Dental care is important because it:
  • Fights tooth decay
  • Helps to prevent periodontal (gum) diseases, which eventually can lead to tooth loss
  • Prevents bad breath. Besides brushing and flossing, seeing the dentist regularly will help eliminate the bacteria that
    causes a bad odor
  • Awards you with a bright smile and a breath of confidence!
  • Makes your teeth stronger which allows you to eat any food you want, at any age!
Q:  My teeth feel fine; do I still need to see a dentist?

A:    You may feel fine and think that your oral health is at no risk.,however,  only a dentist can detect dental problems early on. This  can occur  during a regular dental checkup. Carvities,gums problems and teeth weakening are just a few issues that can go unnoticed for quite a while. Take advantage of all the modern,gentle  dental techniques  that  are available to fix any teeth issues (eg. broken, chipped teeth etc…

Q:  How can I take care of my teeth in between dental checkups?

A:  

  • Do not forget to brush your teeth, at least, two times a day (2 minutes each time). Floss at least once a day!
  • Use only a fluoride containing toothpaste. Ask your dentist if you also might need a fluoride rinse. This will prevent
    any cavities in the future!
  • Avoid sugary drinks, sweets and cigarettes as much as possible. These harm the overall immunity of your mouth and
    stain your teeth badly.
  • When brushing teeth, brush your tongue as well! By doing so you will remove food particles and reduce the amount
    of mouth bacteria.
  • Brushing your tongue will make your breath much fresher!
  • Be sure to schedule your regular, routine check-ups. It is recommended to check your teeth at least twice
    a year or even more often.
Q:   At what age should I start taking my child to see the dentist?

A:    We recommend you start taking children as young as 2 years old for regular dental healthcare checkups.

Q:   When should I change my toothbrush?

A:     It is recommended to change your toothbrush once in every three months. That’s based on what a majority of American dental institutions and numerous researches strongly suggest.

Q:   What is nitrous oxide and who is it good for?

A:     Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an inhaled sedative agent that is administered to relax a patient during dental surgery or in situations where the patient suffers from severe anxiety or involuntary movement during dental procedures (such as a severe gag reflex). During the dental procedure, the patient remains relaxed under light-to-moderate sedation and can still respond to commands. Nitrous is even safe enough for children!

Q:   What is Zoom!® Advanced Power bleaching system and how is it different from other systems?

A:     The Zoom!® Advanced Power bleaching system is an in-office teeth whitening procedure that uses a peroxide-based, light-activated gel to brighten your smile several shades lighter during a one hour session!
Your new, bright smile is best maintained by regular dental check-ups and good oral care.

Q:   Can my 17-year-old bring his 6-year-old sister to their appointment?

A:    All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during an office visit.

Q:   Can I schedule an appointment for a cleaning only?

A:    Based on your exam, and x-rays, Dr. Malcolm will be able to diagnose the proper cleaning recommended for you. We offer several types of cleanings to fit your needs and we want to be sure that we allow proper time for the service to be performed.

Q:   Are dental x-rays really necessary?

A:    YES. Many diseases, lesions, and conditions can only be detected with the use of dental x-rays. At Bright Smiles we use digital x-rays which are 60-70% less radiation than traditional dental x-rays! It is impossible to see directly between the teeth or under the gums or bone without the use of a dental x-rays. Many times the patient has no signs or symptoms of disease. Dental x-rays can detect disease much sooner than the clinical examination alone. This enables Dr. Malcolm to identify problems early so that pain and extensive, costly treatment can be avoided.

Q:   I’m pregnant; can I come in for a cleaning?

A:    Sure, prior to your first visit, we require that you obtain a medical release form from your OB/GYN, indicating that you can be seen in a dental office and specifying if there are any precautions.

Q:   What should I do in the event of an emergency?

A:    Please call Bright Smiles as early as possible in the morning so that we can arrange to see you as soon as possible. If your emergency occurs outside of our scheduled working hours please contact Dr. Malcolm on her emergency number. If you do not get an immediate response please go to your local hospital for emergency care.

Q:   What should I do in the event of an emergency?

A:    Please call Bright Smiles as early as possible in the morning so that we can arrange to see you as soon as possible. If your emergency occurs outside of our scheduled working hours please contact Dr. Malcolm on her emergency number. If you do not get an immediate response please go to your local hospital for emergency care.