Our expert dentists and dental hygienists answer a variety of different questions on a daily basis. However, you may not have time to call or drop by your dentist’s office to ask your specific questions.

 

We’ve compiled a list of 5 frequently-asked dental questions, with responses to help answer these common questions.

 

Why is it So Important to Go to the Dentist Every Six Months?

It’s incredibly important to visit the dentist every six months to maintain good dental health. It’s the difference between preventative and crisis treatment.
With crisis treatment, you go to the dentist only when there’s a problem, like a toothache. This can lead to other serious problems, especially since tooth decay generally doesn’t hurt until it reaches the nerve of the tooth.

 

 

Preventative treatment enables you to keep your teeth healthy and strong, reducing the likelihood of cavities and other dental issues.

 

Another reason is that dentists have the tools necessary to give your teeth a deep, thorough cleaning. Removing the plaque and tartar you can’t remove on your own helps reduce your risk of tooth decay.

 

I Haven’t Been to the Dentist in a Long Time. Where Do I Start?

In a 2014 poll conducted by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, only 58.2% of Texans visited the dentist during the year. Whatever the reason, skipping the dentist is nothing to be ashamed about because it’s never too late to start going again.

 

The most important thing is to get to the dentist as soon as possible. If you haven’t been in a while, expect the appointment to run longer than usual because it may take more time to clean off the plaque and tartar that’s built up.

 

What Causes Bad Breath?

There are many different sources of bad breath, but a majority of the time the main culprit is the bacteria in your mouth. The bacterial buildup in your mouth that isn’t brushed or washed away causes bad breath. Possible causes include:

• Poor hygiene (bacteria left on your teeth and on your tongue)
• Dry Mouth (If you have dry mouth, you aren’t producing enough saliva, which means bacteria isn’t being washed away)
• Low Salivary Flow (Without saliva, you’re not washing away the bacteria in your mouth)

 

 

Are Manual or Electric Toothbrushes Better?

Whether you use a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush, the most important thing about your toothbrush is that you use it. Both are effective at cleaning your teeth; choose the type of toothbrush that you will use for two minutes, twice a day.

 

If you struggle using a manual brush, an electric toothbrush may help you maintain an effective cleaning. For children, an electric toothbrush offers a fun way to brush their teeth and can provide a better clean.

 

What If I’m Nervous or Afraid of Going to the Dentist?

If you struggle with dental anxiety or full-on fear (phobia), you’re not alone. It’s been estimated that 40 to 50 million Americans avoid the dentist because of anxiety or fear.

 

At Greenspoint Dental, we offer sedation dentistry. This is a great way to relieve your anxiety and help you rest during the dental exam.

 

 

If you have any questions or want to schedule a dental appointment, contact Greenspoint Dental in Houston, Texas. We are dedicated to providing you and your loved ones with the best dental care.