Here at The Dentist’s Office, our team has been caring for our community in Fallon and Fernley, Nevada for over twenty years. We strive to provide every patient with the highest quality dental service, and the best information about how to maintain and improve oral health. We welcome and encourage any and all questions from our patients, our staff is always here to help! We have compiled a list of common questions that we receive from our patients, and we hope you find their answers informative and helpful.
• What causes tooth sensitivity & should I be worried about it?
Many of our patients often notice tooth sensitivity in the form of discomfort or pain in response to consuming hot or cold foods or beverages. Tooth sensitivity is caused when the surface of the tooth has been worn away, leaving the underlying dentin layer bare. Another cause of tooth sensitivity is a recession of the gums, which exposes the sensitive root of the tooth. When the dentin layer is exposed, heat, cold, or pressure reaches your tooth’s nerve directly, causing discomfort and pain. Tooth sensitivity can often be a precursor to other dental conditions because exposed dentin is more vulnerable to decay & receding gums are a sign of possible gum disease. If you are dealing with tooth sensitivity, contact our office as soon as possible so that we can recommend solutions to remedy the issue.
• How often do I need to visit the dentist?
Visiting the dentist every six months will help you maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental conditions from developing. Twice-yearly cleaning and exam appointments are not only an opportunity to get your teeth cleaner than what is possible by brushing & flossing at home, but they also serve as an opportunity for us to examine your mouth for any potential issues. Generally, your appointment will consist of detailed X-Rays that allow us to detect cavities and other dental conditions, as well as a thorough cleaning of your teeth. While we typically recommend two visits a year for most patients, Our dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you are diagnosed with periodontitis (gum disease) or it’s precursor (gingivitis). If you are diagnosed with these or any other dental conditions, more frequent visits can help to prevent them from becoming worse.
• What is better, a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush?
When utilizing proper brushing techniques, manual and electric toothbrushes perform similarly. If you tend to struggle with utilizing proper brushing techniques, using an electric toothbrush may help you get a more thorough cleaning with each brushing. If brushing for the recommended two minutes is difficult for you, you may find that an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer can help you brush for the proper amount of time. If you have questions about which toothbrush is ideal for you, be sure to ask your dentist at your next visit. They can make personalized recommendations that will help you achieve the best possible oral health.
• What is gum disease?
Gum disease is clinically referred to as periodontitis or periodontal disease, and is caused when bacteria works its way into your gums. Gum disease can begin with little to no detectable symptoms, and may be difficult to recognize without frequent visits to the dentist. The early stages of gum disease, commonly known as gingivitis, can be recognized by swollen, red gums that bleed easily and recede from the teeth. If your teeth appear to be longer than they used to, consult your dentist so that they can assess your gum loss and provide solutions catered to preventing the condition from worsening. These early stages of gum disease can also be marked by bad breath and gum sensitivity as well. Later stages of gum disease include abscesses, tooth pain, tooth loss, and bone loss in the jaw. It is important to note that early detection of gum disease is crucial because once it progresses from gingivitis to periodontitis, it can only be managed, not cured. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, visiting your dentist regularly, and notifying your dentist of any of the above symptoms is the best way to avoid developing gum disease.
• My teeth don’t hurt & they look just fine. Why do I need to see the dentist?
Many dental ailments and conditions are not accompanied by detectable symptoms in their early stages. Patients may have cavities, tooth decay, tooth grinding, infected teeth, or oral cancer without experiencing any symptoms. Our office uses the highest quality technology and techniques to help detect and diagnose potential dental conditions, even in the absence of symptoms.
Be sure to visit The Dentist’s Office in Fallon or Fernley, Nevada every six months for a dental exam and teeth cleaning. Our expert staff will detect and diagnose any potential conditions and provide treatments designed to help you achieve the best possible oral health! If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health or oral care routine that are not listed above, we are happy to answer them at your next appointment, don’t hesitate to ask.
