This section covers a host of miscellaneous questions that we are often asked. If you haven’t found the solution to your problem in the other sections, perhaps you will find them here.

How often should one see the Dentist?

Most dental associations recommend a routine check-up once every six months (check-up and cleaning).

How frequently should X-rays be taken and why?

Xrays (Bitewings) are recommended every 12-18 months and are taken to diagnose the presence of interproximal caries (i.e. cavities between teeth). A full mouth or Panoramic x-ray should be taken every 36-60 months. This x-ray shows the entire mouth, and any abnormalities of the hard tissues that may exist. Once they are identified, appropriate treatment can be given. It also provides us a way to evaluate the level of bone, any abscesses or abnormalities that should ordinarily not be present.


Are there any kinds of foods that should not be eaten?

Foods and drinks that are high in sugar content, sticky foods such as caramels, dates and crackers should be kept to a minimum. Foods that stick to teeth cause more dental disease than sugar in less sticky forms or in liquids. Frequent consumption of sugar-rich foods without adequate brushing is a sure request for dental disease.

Is chewing gum good for me?

Sugar-free gum, when chewed immediately after meals, has been clinically proven reduce the incidence of caries. But, chewing gum is not advised for patients wearing Orthodontic braces.

Is there any treatment for grinding and clenching?

Unfortunately, these days, grinding and clenching is all too common. Grinding is referred to as bruxism and is more a "nocturnal" habit (night-time). Clenching, on the other hand, is a "diurnal" habit (day-time). It appears to be a stress induced response, and one which is invariably treatable by utilization of a simple splint, which is custom made for the patient to wear. Usually this method f treatment is obtains good results.

My teeth are becoming increasingly sensitive -- what can I do to help reduce the sensitivity?

When gums start to recede, either due to periodontal disease or as one grows older, nerve endings which are housed in the covering of the root (the “cementum”) become exposed, and when stimulated, illicit a response. They are generally sensitive to cold, sweet or acidic foods. Sensitive responses are also obtained in teeth which show evidence of wear.

There are a number of treatment methods that can be used to help reduce or eliminate the discomfort. The simplest method would be to use desensitizing toothpaste. Regular usage, twice a day for 8-12 weeks, should show signs of improvement. If that doesn’t work, then desensitizing medications (prescription) can be topically applied in the office and a prescription given for home use. They are generally quite effective and offer immediate results. If the areas of tooth wear at the gumline (cervical erosion) are deep, then a tooth colored restoration can be bonded to eliminate both the sensitivity as well as the tooth defect.'


What are some of the causes of bad breath? What can I do about it?

Scientifically referred to as ‘Halitosis’, unpleasant mouth odor has many causes. Most frequently we think certain food such as onion and garlic causes bad breath. However, poor dental hygiene can cause odour too. This can be the result of many conditions, such as periodontal breakdown, ill-fitting restorations (fillings or crowns), digestive problems, sinus infections, nose disorders, certain foods, especially those high in sulfur content, to name a few. Food which is trapped under defective crowns or bridges or is stuck in-between teeth with ill-fitting, broken restorations, decompose and ferment and gives rise to a very foul taste and smell. Sometimes the presence of pus may also lead to bad odour. Treatment measures should include improved oral hygiene, a complete oral examination with x-rays, evaluation of existing restorations and replacement of defective restorations.

My mouth is always dry - what causes Dry Mouth?

Xerostomia (dry mouth) can be a result of aging, salivary gland problems, certain pre-existing medical conditions (eg: Sjogrens), numerous medications etc. This condition can influence speech and cause an increase in cavities. Saliva substitutes (available with a doctors prescription) should be used frequently and treatment to reduce or eliminate the cause should be done.

When should I take my child for his first dental visit?

Ideally, a child should visit the dentist before his third birthday. According to the American Dental Association, an early visit can help identify problems and begin a lifelong habit of good dental care


What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?

Contact your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Baby teeth are usually not put back but the child should be seen by the dentist to check if any roots remain or other teeth have been injured.

What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?

Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. Do NOT scrub it or clean it with soap, just rinse with water! If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can’t put the tooth back into the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to the pediatric dental office immediately, or call your dentist’s emergency number if it is after hours. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.


Is it common to have dental problems associated with pregnancy?

Pregnancy gingivitis is most common. Here, the gums are usually red and swollen, bleed easily and become very sore or sensitive. There seems to be a direct correlation between the rise in the levels of progesterone and estrogen and the level of gingival inflammation. This increased gingival inflammation is usually first seen about the second month and reaches its maximum around the eighth month of pregnancy. During this time there is an increase in the level of circulating progesterone and estrogen. The usual decrease in inflammation in the ninth month follows a decrease in the level of these hormones.

The best way to avoid gingival problems during pregnancy is to practice excellent oral hygiene techniques. This includes a thorough brushing at least twice daily and careful flossing at least once daily. Rinsing with mouthwash or warm salt water can help soothe the tissues but you should be careful not to swallow it.


Is chewing ice harmful to teeth?

Chewing ice on a regular basis can cause damage to teeth. The main problem I see in my patients who chew ice, is ‘fracture lines’ in their teeth. Fracture lines are not unusual, especially as we grow older but I see an unusually large amount of fracture lines in "ice-chewers". These fracture lines can cause teeth to be sensitive to cold and/or biting pressure. Once these symptoms appear, the best treatment is to place a crown on the tooth. Occasionally, if these cracks are deep enough, they "kill" the nerve in the tooth, making root canal treatment necessary. It may occasionally be necessary to extract the tooth.

Chewing ice can also cause a piece of the tooth to completely fracture off. Again, this is treated by placing a crown on the tooth. This habit can also cause the enamel to wear away more quickly as we see in people who grind their teeth (bruxism). This makes your teeth more susceptible to decay.