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To read our frequently asked questions and answers, click on a question listed that concerns you.
All dentists are taught about the oral causes of bad breath in dental school. You might start by asking your own dentist about your problem and ways to treat it. Or, call your state or local dental society for referrals.
Cavities occur when the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack your tooth enamel. Plaque is the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. After you eat, the bacteria in plaque produce acids. Over time these acids can break down your tooth enamel and a cavity may form. That's why proper brushing with Colgate toothpaste and toothbrush, and flossing every day is so important to help prevent cavities from forming.
Yes! Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps safely strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride can be found in most toothpaste and in anti-cavity mouth rinses.
In communities where fluoride has been added to the drinking water, the children have 65% fewer cavities! If your water supply does not contain fluoride, your dentist or pediatrician may prescribe a daily fluoride supplement for your children. And if you or your children are especially cavity-prone, you may want to consider dental sealants, a plastic coating applied by your dentist to protect teeth from decay. Ask your dentist or physician about what's best.
Starchy or sugary foods, especially those that stick to your teeth, are the worst foods for producing plaque acids that cause tooth decay. It's better to eat a well-balanced diet that avoids these foods. But when you do eat sugary foods, eat them with your meal instead of as a snack.
Brush at least twice a day with toothpaste and floss daily to remove food and plaque from between teeth and below the gumline. Consider using Fluorigard Anti-Cavity Mouthrinse-this can be especially helpful to individuals with exposed roots due to receding gums. And visit your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups. Preventive care can help keep minor problems from becoming major ones.
First, the tooth is prepared by reducing its size so that the crown can fit over it properly.
Next, an impression of the prepared tooth is made to provide an exact mold for the crown. Your dentist will choose a tooth color that closely matches your own tooth shade. The impression will then be sent to a dental lab that will make your crown.
While waiting for your permanent crown, a temporary cap will be placed over the prepared tooth.
Finally, your dentist will cement your permanent crown into place.
Crowns are made from a variety of materials, including alloys of gold or other non-precious metals, porcelain, acrylic or ceramic. Ask your dentist what material is best for your restoration.
Only your dentist or hygienist can tell you if you have gum disease. That's one reason why it's so important to have regular dental checkups.
As you age, subtle changes happen to your body. These changes can include gums that recede. You know your gums are receding if your teeth look longer than in the past. While you cannot prevent gum recession, you can help prevent many of the conditions associated with it, including sensitive teeth and root cavities. Talk to your dentist and hygienist about which anti-sensitivity products are right for you. And use Colgate toothpaste, toothbrushes and floss daily to fight cavities.
Because bacteria cause gum disease, it can recur. However, with regular checkups and proper brushing and flossing, you can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease returning.
Only your dentist or hygienist can detect the early stages of tooth decay, gum disease or other diseases when he or she examines you. That's one reason regular dental checkups are so important.
Yes, tartar control toothpastes have been proven to prevent tartar from forming above the gumline.
Yes. Many adults have occasional sensitivity to hot or cold food and beverages. Others suffer from constant pain. Regardless of the frequency of your pain, let your dentist know. Sensitive teeth can usually be treated.