How often should I visit the dentist?
Most people should visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. However, your ideal schedule may vary based on your individual oral health needs. Patients with gum disease, diabetes, a history of cavities, or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent visits—typically every three to four months.
Regular dental visits allow us to catch problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to treat, and professional cleanings remove tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t eliminate.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?
Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease (gingivitis). When plaque builds up along the gumline, it causes inflammation and makes gums tender and prone to bleeding. Other causes include:
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Starting a new flossing routine (temporary bleeding is normal)
- Certain medications that thin the blood
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy
- Vitamin deficiencies
*Important: While occasional minor bleeding might not be serious, persistent bleeding gums should never be ignored. Early gum disease is reversible with professional care and improved home hygiene, but advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, dental X-rays are very safe. Modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays, and the amount of radiation exposure is extremely minimal—comparable to what you’d receive from a few hours of sun exposure or a short airplane flight.
We use lead aprons and thyroid collars for additional protection, and we only take X-rays when clinically necessary. The diagnostic benefits far outweigh the minimal risks, as X-rays allow us to detect problems that aren’t visible during a regular examination, including cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, and tumors.
What's the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It’s colorless or pale yellow and can be removed with regular brushing and flossing. When you eat, bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel.
Tartar (calculus) is hardened plaque that has mineralized on your teeth. It’s harder, typically yellow or brown, and forms both above and below the gumline. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed by a dental professional with special instruments.
Tartar provides a rough surface where more plaque can accumulate, creating a harmful cycle that can lead to cavities and gum disease. This is why regular professional cleanings are essential.
Do fillings hurt?
Getting a filling is typically not painful. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely before beginning any work. You may feel pressure or vibration during the procedure, but you shouldn’t feel pain.
After the anesthesia wears off (usually within 2-3 hours), some people experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days. This is normal and should gradually improve. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient if needed.
Modern filling materials and techniques have made the process much more comfortable than in the past. If you’re anxious about dental work, let us know—we can discuss sedation options to help you feel more relaxed.
What's the difference between a crown and a filling?
Fillings are used when decay or damage affects only a small portion of the tooth. The dentist removes the damaged area and fills the space with composite resin, amalgam, or other material. Fillings are typically completed in one visit.
Crowns (caps) are needed when a tooth is extensively damaged, has had root canal treatment, or is weakened by a large filling. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. Crowns usually require two visits—one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and another to place the permanent crown.
Think of a filling as a patch and a crown as a protective helmet for your tooth.
