Visiting a dentist provides treatments and products that help maintain good oral health. They offer a variety of services including cleaning and prevention, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry. It is recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for cleaning. Here are questions you can ask your orthodontist:
How do They Clean my Teeth?
You can clean your teeth at home every day, twice a day, but a dentist gives your teeth a professional, deep clean. The dentist uses specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup. They will then examine your teeth for any sign of tooth decay or oral cancer, followed by applying fluoride to strengthen teeth. Some dentists can also use whitening products and apply them directly to your teeth. Getting your teeth cleaned professionally twice a year is recommended for ideal oral health.Â
What to Do About Extrinsic Discoloration?
Extrinsic stains develop on the enamel surface of the teeth. It is caused by sugar, excessive consumption of tea, coffee, and tobacco products, and poor oral hygiene. Professional cleaning can be done to remove discoloration where your gums are shielded, and a bleaching solution is placed on the teeth. A light is used to assist the solution while the teeth are in the process of whitening. Dentists clean plaque, which causes bacteria buildup, such as tartar. Over-the-counter products such as gels are used to mold mouth guards for your teeth. These products have whitening compounds that remove extrinsic stains.
What are my Options if I Have Missing Teeth?
Treatment options such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures are some solutions for patients with missing teeth. Dental implants are installed using a titanium screw that is fitted directly to the jawbone through surgery. A crown is placed to cover the tooth surface to restore its original form. Bridges consist of two crowns that are placed on the supporting teeth, along with artificial teeth that fill the gaps left by missing teeth. Dentures are removable teeth that can fill the gaps in both the upper and lower jaws. Partial dentures replace a few missing teeth and are clamped to your natural teeth during installation.
Why Straighten Misaligned Teeth?
Crooked teeth may cause alignment issues, such as over- or underbites, which can cause problems, such as jaw aches, headaches, or even chewing difficulties. Misaligned teeth are also hard to clean, making bacteria grow on them easier, which might cause cavities and gum diseases. Dental braces correct crooked teeth by placing metal or ceramic brackets that can be adjusted over time. They offer long-term solutions for fixing misaligned teeth to restore functionality and appearance.
How Often Should I Visit an Orthodontist?
Orthodontist appointments depend on the type of treatment you are undergoing. The first consultation with the orthodontist consists of an exam followed by a presentation of the recommended procedures. Patients with braces or clear aligners may get a treatment plan and timelines for appointments from their orthodontist. These visits monitor your treatment, adjust braces, or install new sets of aligners. Consult your dentist when discomfort occurs or your braces have been damaged.
Visit a DentistÂ
Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and identify any developing problems. This helps create a treatment plan early to minimize risk of potential infections. Make sure to maintain your oral hygiene at home as well to prevent dental issues in the future. Schedule an appointment to address any HCC you might have.
