SANTA CRUZ, SCOTTS VALLEY CA
Visiting the dentist twice a year allows the dentist to inspect our teeth and gums and us, as patients, to walk out of our appointment with a sparkling clean mouth … and, hopefully, good news that will carry us through until we see the dentist again. But checkups at the dentist offer more than an exam and cleaning. They’re also an opportunity to ask questions that may have popped up about your oral health in the six months since your last checkup. If you’re wondering what kind of questions you could ask the dentist to stay proactive about your oral health, our family dentist in Santa Cruz has compiled a short list of FAQs to help give you an idea:
What’s the purpose of regular dental X-rays?
Taking X-rays when you first visit us as a patient gives us a baseline of your oral health. This is helpful for us to monitor changes in your teeth, gums and mouth tissue between appointments. Our Scotts Valley family dentist may request bitewing X-rays each year with a full mouth X-ray series every four to five years; patients with a higher risk for tooth decay or other oral issues may need them every six to 18 months.
Should I add mouthwash to my oral health care regimen?
Adding mouthwash to your oral health routine boosts the power of brushing and flossing, but it does not take its place. Be sure the mouthwash you choose — whether to add fluoride, freshen breath or treat tooth sensitivity, gum disease or inflammation — is approved by the American Dental Association.
Do you recommend any specific toothbrush or toothpaste?
The tools we use daily matter to our dental health, so it’s important to choose toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash that are recommended by dentists. For instance, while many people think hard-bristled brushes will clean teeth and gums more thoroughly, our Santa Cruz cosmetic dentist explains that those bristles can be too abrasive and cause damage to tooth enamel and gum tissue. Opt for an electric toothbrush or a soft-bristled classic toothbrush instead. Our dentist can recommend a specific toothpaste based on the condition of your oral health. If you have sensitive teeth or if you’re looking to brighten or whiten your smile, for instance, we can recommend safe options.
Do I need preventative treatments?
As with most anything, preventative care can stave off more serious issues down the road. The same holds true for oral health. Ask our Scotts Valley cosmetic dentist about treatments such as dental sealants, fluoride applications or preventive measures against teeth grinding (bruxism) to protect your teeth and gums.
What should I do in case of a dental emergency?
Emergencies happen, and it’s important to know the steps to take if you’re confronted with one. Knowing how to respond can make a big difference in preserving your oral health. Ask our dentist about emergency protocols and procedures for our practice, including how to handle issues like severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth or broken dental restorations.
EMERGENCY DENTIST IN SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ, AND LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
Asking questions such as these will help you gain valuable insights into your oral health and proactively care for your teeth and gums to maintain a healthy smile. At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we encourage open communication and are happy to answer any questions you have. We love for our patients to be informed and involved in their oral health decisions. If you have questions or need to make an appointment, call our office at (831) 824-5111, or reach out to us online today.
