Ten More Things Every Dental Patient Should Know

Bring your child to the dentist by age two. I recommend children be seen by a dentist by age two, but can be brought at a younger age if the teeth seem discolored or it becomes obvious your child is avoiding an area of the mouth due to discomfort.

Most baby teeth should be restored.  Some baby teeth, the molars and canines, will stay in the mouth for 6-7 years. Children with cavities need to have those teeth filled, even though they will eventually lose them.  Loose baby teeth with cavities can be observed and may not need to be treated.

The orthodontist can see children as early as age seven.  If your dentist recognizes that your child has significant problems with the alignment of the teeth or jaws, it is advisable to have an orthodontist evaluate your child as early as age seven.  Children with fewer problems can be seen by age 12 or when all the baby teeth are missing.

A dental assistant can fill your tooth.  Here in Pennsylvania, many dentists employ the use of expanded function dental assistants (EFDA) to fill teeth after the dentist has removed the decay.  The EFDA has additional training and can perform these duties under the supervision of a dentist.

Tooth shaping can improve your smile.  A simple way to improve your smile is with tooth shaping.  This involves removing a small amount of enamel and can make teeth appear more straight and even.  The procedure is fast, inexpensive and painless.

Dental implants can improve the fit of dentures.  The use of dental implants can replace missing teeth and often prevent the need for dentures.  Denture wearers can also greatly improve the fit of their dentures with as few as two dental implants and the use of attachments that fit into the dentures.

Injections can be painless.  New techniques can greatly reduce the discomfort associated with getting a shot at your dentist.  The use of sodium bicarbonate, added to the local anesthetic right before the injection, greatly reduces the “bee sting” sensation and makes the anesthetic work better.

Gaggers can be helped.  If you have a strong gag reflex, there are things your dentist can do to help you.  Strong topical anesthetic spays can numb the mouth before procedures like x-rays and fast setting materials can be used for quick dental impressions.

Ask your dental hygienist questions.  In most cases, cavities and gum disease can be prevented.  Ask your dental hygienist about the best ways to brush and floss.  Good technique can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Ask your dentist questions too.  Don’t be intimidated about asking your dentist questions about the condition of your mouth, and the treatment he or she recommends.  Make sure your dentist explains all treatment options, and the drawbacks and benefits of those options.