Q & A:
Q. After I see the dentist, why are my teeth sensitive?
A. After dental treatment, teeth are often sensitive to hot and cold. This usually is temporary, lasting a few weeks or months, but only if the mouth is kept free of bacterial plaque. If the mouth is not kept clean, the sensitivity will remain and become more severe. If your teeth are especially sensitive, please come back and see us. We may recommend using a medicated toothpaste or mouth rinse made specifically for sensitive teeth.
Q. How do I choose good oral hygiene products?
A. When choosing dental care products, we recommend using what works for most patients most of the time. To find out what's best for your particular needs, talk to your periodontist.
In addition to manual tooth brushes, your choice includes automatic toothbrushes and "high tech" electronic toothbrushes. These are safe and effective for the majority of patients. Other options include oral irrigators, rubber tips, interproximal toothbrushes and interdental cleaners. If used improperly, these dental aids can injure gums, so it is important to discuss proper use with your periodontist.
Q. Why do I need a professional cleaning?
A. Daily brushing and flossing will keep the formation of dental calculus to a minimum, but it won't completely prevent it. A professional cleaning will remove hardened calculus in places that your toothbrush and floss have missed. Regular periodontal visits are an important part of your oral hygiene program to prevent gum disease and keep your teeth for a lifetime.
REFERRING DOCTORS:
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Dental:
The American Academy of Periodontics (AAP): http://perio.org/
American Dental Association (ADA): http://www.ada.org/
Women:
National Osteoporosis Foundation: http://www.nof.org/
National Institute of Health: http://www.osteo.org/
IVillage: http://www.ivillagehealth.com/
Heart Disease/Stroke & Periodontal Disease:
Perio.org: http://www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.heart.htm
Tobacco & Periodontal Disease:
Perio.org: http://perio.org/consumer/smoking_info.htm
Preterm Low Birth Rate Births & Periodontal Disease:
Perio.org: http://www.perio.org/consumer/mbc.baby.htm
Depression:
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