Question 1

WHICH TYPE OF TOOTHBRUSH SHOULD I USE?

Accepted Answer

Bristle type and head size are actually more important than getting a brand-name toothbrush. Soft toothbrushes with smaller-sized heads are recommended above those with medium and hard heads because the smaller sizes allow you to reach better and clean each individual tooth. They also are less likely to injure your gums, which is a big concern with other-size toothbrushes. You also don’t need to scrub down on your teeth, as long as you brush at least twice a day and have at least two dental checkups each year.

Question 2

IS ONE TOOTHPASTE BETTER THAN OTHERS?

Accepted Answer

In general no, but we do advise patients to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride to decrease the possibility of dental decay. You can choose a toothpaste that you find tastes good as long as the ingredient is included. If you are using a "whitening" toothpaste, be advised that professional teeth whitening treatments at our Mt. Kisco, NY cosmetic dentistry office may be required to achieve the results you desire.

Question 3

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I FLOSS?

Accepted Answer

Flossing even just once a day is enough to help prevent cavities from forming. Your toothbrush can’t reach every area, so flossing keeps your gums healthy and gets into those crevices that are often missed.

Question 4

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CROWN & A CAP?

Accepted Answer

There is no difference. Crowns, or caps, are restorations to repair severely broken teeth using various metal or porcelain materials.

Question 5

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BRIDGE & A PARTIAL DENTURE?

Accepted Answer

Both bridges and partial dentures replace missing teeth. A bridge is permanently attached to abutment teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and is easily removed by the patient. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures.

Question 6

DO I NEED TO HAVE A ROOT CANAL JUST BECAUSE I HAVE TO HAVE A CROWN?

Accepted Answer

No. While most teeth that have had root canal treatments do need crowns to strengthen the teeth and to return the teeth to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal.

Question 7

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Accepted Answer

If you are in good oral health and are missing one or multiple teeth, chances are you are a good candidate for dental implants. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your specific needs.

Question 8

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS REMOVABLE LIKE DENTURES?

Accepted Answer

Unlike dentures, dental implants are screwed into the jawbone to help anchor and support the artificial tooth.

Question 9

HOW LONG DO DENTAL IMPLANTS LAST?

Accepted Answer

Dental Implants can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years with proper care and maintenance. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement options that can last that long.

Question 10

WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD HAVE THEIR FIRST DENTAL VISIT?

Accepted Answer

You should bring your child to a pediatric dentist by their 1st birthday or within six months of their 1st tooth coming in. Their first visit will include an examination of the teeth, gums, oral tissue, and bite.

Question 11

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PEDIATRIC DENTIST AND A FAMILY DENTIST?

Accepted Answer

A general or family dentist has the knowledge and training to treat children and adults. A pediatric dentist, on the other hand, goes through specialized training after dental school to treat dental issues with infants, children, and adolescents.

Question 12

WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD START USING TOOTHPASTE?

Accepted Answer

Your child should not use toothpaste until the age of three. You will want to use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and make sure you are supervising the brushing. If you are unsure if it is time to use toothpaste, contact your pediatric dentist.