Frequently Asked Questions – Dental Care

What Are Common Dental Problems?

Some of the most common dental issues that we see most often are:

• Toothache (which may be due to a more serious underlying factor)
• Tooth decay
• Cracked or chipped teeth (from both trauma and tooth decay)
• Periodontal Disease
• Root Canal Problems

If I Neglect My Dental Health What Can Happen?

Not maintaining dental health and dental hygiene can lead to a host of issues. Dentally, this will lead to the development of periodontal disease and tooth decay. As we know, periodontal disease is quite progressive and irreversible after its initial stage (gingivitis). This neglect will lead to dental infections and tooth loss. Studies have also shown how our dental health is interconnected with our systemic health as well. Poor dental health can lead to cardiovascular disease, alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.

 

My Teeth Feel Fine. Do I Still Need To See A Dentist Regularly?

Yes! There could be an underlying issue beginning that can be handled very easily in its earliest stages versus waiting for it to become a bigger and more expensive dental issue. For example, periodontal disease is often overlooked in its earliest form. If left untreated, it will progress and cause bone loss that cannot be recovered.

How Old Should My Children Be When They See The Dentist?

Depends on the growth and development of the child. Most children should be seen by the dentist by the time their 1st tooth has erupted into the mouth. However, it is a good idea to get your child comfortable with the dentist and the surroundings of the dental office. This will make them feel comfortable when the time for their 1st appointment approaches.

Can I Make My Teeth Whiter??

For starters, watch what you eat and drink. Tea, coffee, wine, and soda will stain your teeth. Smoking is also known to yellow your teeth over time. The main focus should always be dental hygiene to include proper brushing 2x per day, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash. Beyond that, you can try over the counter remedies like whitening toothpaste and whitening strips. The most effective way to whiten your teeth is thru the dental office. Either in office or completed at home under dental supervision.

How Often Do I Need To See The Dentist?

A dental examination and dental cleaning is recommended for most patients every 6 months. Some patients will need a more frequent schedule due to dental health and other circumstances.

How Can I Maintain My Teeth Between Dental Checkups?

The most effective way is to maintain a regular dental hygiene program. This should include brushing 2x per day, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Another way is to visually check your smile to see if something does not look right. If you notice anything contact your dentist immediately for an appointment.

 

What Is Tooth Sensitivity? Do I Have It?

Tooth sensitivity is when you are sensitive to hot and cold. This is generally caused by damage to your outer shell of your teeth (enamel). This can also occur from periodontal disease and gum tissue recession. when gums recede the root structure of tooth can be exposed and this portion is not protected by enamel.

How Can I Treat My Sensitive Teeth?

Seeing your dentist is the best course to take. If you are unable to do that immediately a sensitivity toothpaste will help alleviate some of the symptoms for most people. In more sever cases, there may be a need for a dental crown or even porcelain veneers to create a new protective shell around your sensitive teeth.

Why Is Fluoride Important For My Smile?

Fluoride has the ability to strengthen our teeth and even in some cases repair lost enamel.

Do I Need To Use Mouthwash Regularly?

Yes! It is recommended to use an ADA approved anti bacterial mouthwash at least once a day. It will help freshen breath but also keep oral bacteria at bay.

What Can I Do If I Have A Dry Mouth?

Hydration is the key. Along with brushing and flossing to stimulate saliva in the mouth. If there is a saliva issue due to medical reasons speak to your dentist about any medications you might be taking. There are also saliva substitutes that can be used to help soften the problem.

What Should I Do If I Knock My Tooth Out?

If you knock your tooth out due to trauma, you should seek dental care immediately. If the tooth has been knocked out completely and is still intact, place it in a bath of milk to help preserve the tooth and possibly be placed back into your mouth by your dentist.

How Do I Treat A Toothache At Home?

Any toothache you should seek immediate dental care. If you are unable to, warm salt water rinses can help as will over the counter pain medications. It is important to note a toothache can progress very quickly into a dental infection that in some cases can be life threatening.

What Causes Teeth To Decay?

Poor dental hygiene is the #1 cause of tooth decay. While diet plays a role, we can minimize that by maintaining good dental hygiene.

How Often Should I Brush My Teeth?

The recommended course is 2x per day. But it is even better to brush after every meal but we understand that is often not possible.

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

You should plan to regularly change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months if possible.

Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Regular Toothbrushes?

This is a very personal decision. In some patients hands regular manual toothbrushes work perfectly fine to remove food debris and plaque. For others, especially those with dexterity issues, an electric toothbrush works best. This is definitely a personal choice. However, a nice feature for more electric toothbrushes is a timer. This forces you to brush the proper amount of time and not rush through it.

If I Am Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment, Do I Still Need To See Dentist Every Six Months?

Yes! Dental checkups during this time will be even more important to your smile. Often, it is difficult to maintain dental hygiene when undergoing orthodontic treatment. Seeing your dentist regularly will catch things developing before they happen in some cases. Also good to get  refreshed on dental hygiene in this challenging time for you.

I Have Bad Breath…What Should I Do?

Bad breath (also called Halitosis) can be caused by many factors. Foods we eat, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease. If after brushing and flossing the bad breath persists it is time to see your dentist. This bad breath could be a sign of something more serious.

How Can I Tell If I Have Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)?

The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis. While initially difficult to self diagnose, symptoms can include swollen or puffy gums and bleeding upon brushing or flossing. If your smile has progressed into the progressive stage of periodontal disease (periodontitis), symptoms can include bad breath, gum tissue recession, bleeding upon brushing, swollen gums, and possibly tooth movement (as bone loss occurs).

What Are Dental Sealants? Why Are They Needed?

Dental sealants are placed over the grooves on the top surfaces of your back teeth. This sealant can protect the areas that are easiest to be affected by tooth decay. In some patients these grooves are more pronounced leaving them at greater risk for tooth decay in those areas. Ask your dentist if sealants are right for your smile.

Why Should I Choose Marielaina Perrone DDS As My Dentist?

Dr Perrone believes that a patients care is her #1 priority. She has received numerous awards for her dentistry, received glowing reviews, and completed hundreds of hours of continuing education to bring the best dentistry possible to her patients and their families.

If you are ready for a smile makeover, contact Marielaina Perrone DDS at (702) 458-2929 to schedule a no cost cosmetic consultation appointment. We cannot wait to help you with your smile makeover to create the smile of your dreams in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV.

Author Bio

Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is a highly experienced and dedicated dental professional passionate about delivering exceptional patient care. With over 20 years of experience in the dental industry, Dr. Perrone is widely regarded as a leading authority in her field, with a reputation for providing innovative solutions and personalized care to her patients.