subject: Paramus New Jersey Dentist [print this page] 10 Things your dentist wants you to know 10 Things your dentist wants you to know
1.Oral health problems dont improve without treatment.
In fact, most conditions only get worse. When you identify and treat problems with your teeth and gums in the early stages, you stop the progression of decay or disease and avoid unnecessary pain and cost.
2.You may be tired of hearing it but flossing is important.
Do you floss your teeth about as often as you change the oil in your car? Theres a reason why you hear, floss, floss, floss, at the dentists office. Toothbrushes cant remove food between your teeth; you need to floss for this. If the food isnt removed, youre more likely to have tooth decay and gum disease.
3.In most cases, its better to have a root canal than to pull the tooth.
Many people avoid root canals because they have unwarranted fear of the procedure, which today is relatively pain-free. In removing the tooths decayed pulp and treating the underlying infection, the tooth can be preserved. Pulling a tooth may seem easier, but it will likely cost more to replace the missing tooth with an implant or bridge.
4.Choose the dental implant.
If you lose a tooth, a dental implant is a better option than a crown. Why? Because a crown requires removal of a portion of the teeth on either side of the empty tooth socket. An implant is attached to the jaw bone, leaving other teeth in their original condition.
5.Its pointless to have cosmetic dentistry without first treating oral health conditions. The popularity of cosmetic dentistry is skyrocketing. Advanced procedures work wonders in approving the appearance of your smile. But they shouldnt be performed if you have untreated tooth decay or gum disease.
6.Think youre too old for braces? Think again!
If your impression of braces is a mouth full of shining metal train tracks, its time you learned about the exciting new advancements in orthodontics. Today, youth and adults have a number of attractive alternatives and new technologies are being introduced regularly.
7. Conventional Metal Braces
Normally made of stainless steel, traditional braces are still the best choice for most children.
PROSLess expensive than most options.
CONSVery visible.
8.Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces operate much like conventional braces, but the unsightly metal brackets are replaced with clear or tooth-colored brackets. The band that attaches to the brackets is clear or white.
PROSAppearance is subtle. Some people say theyre more comfortable.
CONSMore costly. Monthly adjustments are needed. May take a little longer for desired results. May not be suitable for major adjustments.
9.Invisible Braces
Clear, plastic aligners straighten your teethinvisibly. Fitted over your teeth, they slowly ease them into alignment. Every two weeks, you get a new set that adjusts the alignment a little further. Often called Invisalign braces because of the dominance of this brand.
PROSVery difficult to see the braces. Perform faster than regular braces. Can be removed when you eat and brush your teeth.
CONSNew aligners are required every two weeks. They work on front portion of mouth only. Not for complex orthodontic conditions.
