Common Questions & Answers
To make your visit to our dental offices more efficient, we've compiled a list of common questions and their answers for you!
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A: The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily; however, I brush my teeth after any time that I eat as well as any time that I drink something that isn't water. While there are many different opinions out there that get into complicated scenarios that discourage brushing due to enamel wear or acid affecting teeth and encouraging a specific amount of time to wait after eating, I stress good brushing techniques with the proper toothbrush that discourage enemal wear and promote oral health. You must use a soft bristle brush or electric soft bristle brush and spend the correct amount of time, which is about three minutes. I recommend vigorously rinsing with water before brushing to remove any particles and diminish acid activity that can promote wear prior to brushing.
Always use a flouride toothpaste, as this helps to strengthen the enamel layer of your teeth.
A: While this questions is a little complicated, it should not be minimized. Each patient is different, and after 18 years of treating patients, my answer largely depends on your level of oral health and your abilities to clean.
Patients with pocketing and extensive restorative treatment will likely require more frequent visits than the insurance will pay for. The minimum number of professional visits that I recommend is twice per year. People with periodontal diease, those who have undergone radiation treatment or chemotheraphy or those who have extreme dry mouth will require more frequent visits. Come visit us today and let us help you determine how many visits will be right for you.
A: This question is very complex and there are many different reasons for bleeding gums. It is important to note that bleeding is often caused by irritation, inflammation or infection and each scenario may be different. I recommend that you seek professional consultation from a dentist any time that you have bleeding of the gums.
Many individuals do not floss on a regular basis, and when something gets caught or trapped between their teeth, they do not immediately remove the irritating food particle and set up inflammation; thus when they floss, there will be bleeding. This is why Dr. Hodges recommends flossing every day prior to brushing for the last time at night. Then, not eating or drinking anything but water for the rest of the evening. It is important to floss first, as particles will be loosened from between the teeth and those will need to be brushed and removed prior to a long night of rest.