Dental FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that informed dental patients make confident decisions about their oral health. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive dental FAQ page to address your most common questions about our dental clinic services & treatments.
Root Canal
How long does a root canal take?
Most appointments take 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and level of infection.
Is a crown always needed after a root canal?
Back teeth usually require crowns because they handle greater chewing force. Front teeth may not always need one, depending on structure and condition.
How long does a root canal last?
With proper maintenance, a root canal can last many years. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular exams are important.
What happens if I delay treatment?
An untreated infection can spread, increase pain, and potentially lead to bone loss or abscess formation. Early treatment often limits complications.
Is root canal treatment covered by insurance?
Many dental plans include coverage for root canal therapy. Coverage varies, so reviewing your plan details is recommended.
Can a root canal fail?
While uncommon, reinfection can occur if bacteria re-enter the tooth. In these cases, retreatment or another procedure may be discussed.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ
If you’re thinking about improving your smile, it’s natural to have questions. Below are answers to common questions patients ask when visiting a modern dental clinic in Fergus about cosmetic dentistry treatments, costs, and benefits.
1. What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on treatments that enhance the look of your teeth while improving your overall smile. Treatments can whiten stained teeth, repair chips or cracks, close gaps, and reshape uneven teeth. Many procedures offered at a modern dental clinic in Fergus also support overall oral health while enhancing how your smile looks.
2. Is cosmetic dentistry right for me?
Cosmetic dentistry may be a good option if you want to improve the look of your teeth or fix concerns like discoloration, worn edges, small gaps, or minor alignment issues. During a consultation at a modern dental clinic in Fergus, your dentist can evaluate your teeth and recommend treatments that match your goals and oral health needs.
3. What dental issues can cosmetic dentistry address?
Cosmetic dentistry can help correct a variety of concerns, including:
- Stained or yellowed teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Uneven or worn tooth edges
- Mild alignment issues
- Missing teeth
A modern dental clinic in Fergus may use treatments such as whitening, veneers, bonding, implants, or clear aligners, depending on the issue.
4. Are cosmetic procedures only about appearance?
Not always. While the main goal is improving your smile, many cosmetic procedures also support dental health. For example, repairing a cracked tooth can prevent further damage, and replacing missing teeth can help maintain proper bite alignment.
5. What types of cosmetic dentistry treatments are available?
Common cosmetic treatments include:
- Professional teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Tooth bonding
- Clear aligners for straighter teeth
- Dental implants or bridges
- Smile reshaping or contouring
A modern dental clinic in Fergus will usually tailor these options into a treatment plan designed for your specific smile.
6. How long do cosmetic dental procedures take?
The timeline depends on the treatment. Certain procedures, like teeth whitening or bonding, are frequently finished in just one visit. Others, like veneers or implants, may require multiple visits and lab work. Your dentist will explain the expected timeline during your consultation.
7. Can I receive sedation during cosmetic dental treatment?
Yes, in many cases, sedation options are available for patients who feel anxious about dental work. A modern dental clinic in Fergus may offer comfort-focused options to help patients relax during their procedures.
8. What are the options for replacing missing teeth?
Several cosmetic and restorative treatments can replace missing teeth, including:
- Dental implants
- Implant-supported dentures
- Dental bridges
- Full or partial dentures
9. What payment options are typically available?
Most dental clinics accept several payment methods such as debit cards, credit cards, and insurance. Many modern dental clinics in Fergus can also help you understand financing or payment plans if larger treatments are required.
10. Does dental insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Coverage depends on insurance providers and the specific procedure. Some treatments considered medically necessary may receive partial coverage, while purely cosmetic procedures may not.
11. How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?
The cost depends on the treatment type and the amount of dental work involved. For example, whitening is usually less expensive than veneers or implants. A consultation at a modern dental clinic in Fergus is the best way to receive an accurate estimate based on your needs.
Dental Crowns and Bridges FAQ
1. What are my options for replacing a missing tooth?
If you’re missing a tooth, your dentist may recommend several solutions depending on your situation. Dental implants or implant-supported bridges may also be discussed during your consultation at a modern dental clinic in Fergus.
2. What is a dental bridge?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s strength, shape, and appearance. Many patients today choose same-day crowns in Fergus, which allow the crown to be designed, created, and placed in a single visit.
3. Why might I need a dental crown?
Dentists often recommend crowns to:
- Protect a cracked or weakened tooth
- Restore a tooth after a large filling
- Cover a tooth after root canal treatment
- Improve the appearance of a discoloured tooth
- Improve the appearance of a misshapen tooth
- Support a dental bridge
At a modern dental clinic in Fergus, advanced technology can make this process quicker and more comfortable.
5. What materials are dental crowns made from?
Dental crowns are commonly made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. Today, many clinics use strong ceramics that closely match natural tooth colour, making same-day crowns look realistic.
6. What is involved in getting a dental crown?
Traditionally, crowns required two appointments. The dentist prepared the tooth, took impressions, and placed a temporary crown while a lab created the final one.
However, many patients now choose same-day crowns in Fergus, where digital imaging and in-office technology allow the crown to be designed and placed during the same visit at a modern dental clinic in Fergus.
7. Do I need a root canal before a crown?
Not always. A root canal is only needed if the tooth’s inner pulp is infected or severely damaged. In many cases, a crown is placed simply to strengthen or restore a tooth without any root canal treatment.
8. Does a root canal procedure hurt?
Root canal treatment is typically comfortable because the area is fully numbed. Most discomfort people associate with a root canal actually comes from the infection that led to the procedure.
9. Will my crown look natural?
Yes. Dental crowns are made to look just like your other teeth. Most people find that same-day crowns blend in naturally with their smile.
10. How long do dental crowns last?
With good care and regular checkups, crowns often last 10 to 20 years or longer, keeping your crown and nearby teeth healthy.
11. Do crowned teeth require special care?
Crowned teeth do not require special care beyond normal oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental visits will help keep both your crown and natural teeth in good condition.
Dental Emergency FAQ
1. What counts as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is a circumstance that requires immediate attention to stop pain, bleeding, or infection. Common examples are a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, broken or cracked teeth, swelling, abscesses, or injuries inside the mouth, such as deep cuts to the gums or cheeks. If you’re unsure, a modern dental clinic in Fergus can quickly assess your symptoms and advise you on the next step.
2. How do I know if I need an emergency dentist?
You should contact an emergency dentist in Fergus if you notice intense or persistent tooth pain, swelling in the gum or jaw area, bleeding that doesn’t stop, signs of infection (such as pus or fever), or a loose or knocked-out tooth. These symptoms often require prompt treatment to prevent further damage.
3. What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
Call your dentist right away and explain what happened. Many clinics offer urgent appointments so you can be seen quickly. If possible, request a same-day dental emergency in the Guelph area to access immediate care. Acting quickly improves the chances of saving a tooth and reducing complications.
4. Can dental emergencies happen suddenly?
Yes. Dental emergencies often occur unexpectedly. Biting down on something hard, sports injuries, accidents, or untreated cavities, can lead to sudden pain or damage. That’s why having access to a modern dental clinic in Fergus that offers emergency care can make a big difference when problems arise.
5. What should I do if I break or chip a tooth?
Rinse your mouth gently with plain warm water and, if possible, gather any broken tooth fragments. Place them in a clean container with milk or saliva, then contact an emergency dentist in Fergus immediately. Quick treatment can sometimes restore the tooth and prevent further damage.
6. What can help relieve dental pain or swelling until I see a dentist?
You can use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication under the recommendation of a dental or healthcare professional. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums. Then contact a Guelph clinic that provides same-day dental emergency services for proper treatment.
7. What should I do if a tooth gets knocked out?
Hold the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root. If dirty, gently rinse with water—do not scrub. Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk or saliva. Contact an emergency dentist in Fergus right away, as quick action is vital for saving your tooth.
8. How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Practicing good daily habits, using a mouthguard during sports, and scheduling routine checkups at a modern dental clinic in Fergus are the best ways to prevent dental emergencies.
9. How can I find help quickly during a dental emergency?
Look for a dental clinic that offers urgent or same-day dental emergency appointments in Guelph. Calling ahead allows the team to prepare for your arrival and provide guidance on what to do before you reach the clinic.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation FAQ
1. What is nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation, commonly recognized as “laughing gas,” is a safe and widely used option in sedation dentistry practices in Guelph. It involves a carefully controlled blend of oxygen and nitrous oxide that patients inhale through a small mask during treatment. The gas helps reduce anxiety and promotes a calm, relaxed feeling while allowing you to remain fully awake. Many patients choose nitrous oxide because it works quickly and makes dental visits much more comfortable.
2. How is nitrous oxide administered during dental treatment?
A comfortable mask placed over your nose delivers the nitrous oxide. As you breathe normally, the gas is gently inhaled and begins to take effect within minutes. During the procedure, your general dentist in Fergus carefully adjusts the level of sedation to ensure you remain relaxed and comfortable while still staying awake and responsive.
3. Who can benefit from nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation can benefit those with dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or patients who feel nervous about dental procedures. Many people visiting a modern dental clinic in Fergus choose this option to make their treatment more comfortable and stress-free.
4. Is nitrous oxide sedation safe?
Yes. Nitrous oxide sedation has been safely used in dentistry for decades. When administered by trained professionals offering sedation dentistry in Guelph, it is carefully monitored to ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure.
5. Will I be asleep during nitrous oxide sedation?
No. Nitrous oxide provides mild sedation. You’ll stay awake and responsive to your dentist, but you’ll feel relaxed and less anxious throughout your treatment at your general dentist in Fergus.
6. How quickly does nitrous oxide start working?
Nitrous oxide begins working within minutes after you start breathing it in. Patients at a modern dental clinic in Fergus often notice a light, calming sensation almost immediately.
7. Are there any instructions before receiving nitrous oxide sedation?
Your dentist may recommend eating a light meal a few hours before your appointment and avoiding heavy foods. It’s also important to inform your general dentist in Fergus about any medications or health conditions before receiving sedation.
8. Will I remember the procedure afterward?
Most patients remember parts of the appointment, although some report feeling like the time passed very quickly. Nitrous oxide used in sedation dentistry in Guelph focuses on relaxation rather than deep memory suppression.
9. Can children receive nitrous oxide sedation?
Yes. Nitrous oxide sedation is commonly used for both adults and children. Many families choose it when visiting a modern dental clinic in Fergus because it helps younger patients feel more comfortable during treatment.
10. Can I drive after nitrous oxide sedation?
In most cases, yes. A key benefit of nitrous oxide sedation is how quickly its effects begin and wear off. Once the mask is removed, your dentist will provide pure oxygen for a few minutes to help clear the remaining gas from your system. As a result, patients visiting a general dentist in Fergus can usually resume normal daily activities, including driving, shortly after their appointment. need to breathe normally to inhale the nitrous oxide and oxygen combination.
4. Who should monitor conscious sedation?
Only experienced and licensed dentists or healthcare professionals, such as physicians and registered RNs, should monitor conscious sedation.
5. Who can benefit from nitrous oxide sedation?
Anyone who’s extremely anxious about getting dental work done can benefit from dental nitrous oxide sedation.
6. Does nitrous oxide sedation work for children as well as adults?
Yes, dental nitrous oxide can work equally well for children and adults. Results typically vary on an individual basis.
7. Are there any special instructions for nitrous oxide sedation?
The most important instruction is to try not to consume any food prior to undergoing nitrous oxide sedation because it can cause nausea or vomiting in some patients who have a weak gag reflex. You should also provide your dentist with a complete list of any medications and supplements you’re currently taking and inform them if you have problems breathing through your nose.
8. Will I remember anything after being sedated?
This is subjective. Some patients may experience mild amnesia or a sense of limited time having passed following the procedure and may not remember the events that occurred while they were sedated.
9. Who is ineligible to use sedation dentistry?
This is usually determined at the discretion of your dentist or general practitioner, but generally the following people should consult a medical professional before undergoing sedation dentistry:
- Patients who are pregnant
- Patients who have difficulty breathing through their noses
- Patients with the following medical conditions: obstructed bowel, obstructed middle ear, pneumothorax, sickle cell anemia, patients who’ve had detached retina surgery within the last three months, COPD, emphysema, and bronchitis
- Patients who’ve undergone Bleomycin chemotherapy within the past year
- Patients who are uncomfortable with wearing a nose piece.
10. Is sedation dentistry safe for me?
In general, yes, sedation dentistry is completely safe. However, if you have any of the above-mentioned pre-existing conditions, it’s absolutely crucial that you consult your dentist and healthcare professional before undergoing any form of sedation dentistry. They should be able to find a sound alternative method for your specific situation.
11. Does nitrous oxide affect my lungs or heart?
As long as you’re able to breathe fully and comfortably through your nose, there should be little to no side effects on your lungs or heart. Again, this is something that should be discussed with your dentist and healthcare professional beforehand.
12. Will I feel any pain during the procedure?
No, you won’t feel any pain throughout the procedure.
13. How safe is nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation is completely safe as long as you’re in optimal physical health.
14. What are the side effects of conscious sedation?
Possible side effects include giddiness, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, slurred speech, hallucinations (depending on the dosage), and relaxation.
15. What are the benefits of using nitrous oxide sedation?
Nitrous oxide sedation is highly beneficial for patients who suffer from severe general anxiety, dental phobia, or PTSD. It can help them feel more comfortable and at ease when they visit the dentist.
16. Can I eat before being sedated?
You should try not to eat anything or a very light meal before being sedated because one of the side effects is nausea and nitrous oxide sedation could cause vomiting.
Princeview Dental Group is an Etobicoke dental clinic that offers various sedation treatments for patients who feel the need to make them more comfortable for their dental treatments and care. Call today at (416)-231-4562 to setup a consultation how Dr. Mummery and her team can help with these types of treatments and techniques.
Clear Aligners FAQ
How long does clear aligner treatment take?
Treatment time varies based on individual needs. Many cases range from 6 to 18 months.
Do clear aligners hurt?
You may feel mild pressure when switching to a new set of trays. This usually fades within a few days and indicates that the aligners are working.
How often do I need to wear them?
Aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day for best results. Consistency is key.
Can I eat with clear aligners in?
No. Aligners need to be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water.
Are clear aligners covered by insurance?
Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage. We can review your benefits together and discuss your available options.
How do I clean my aligners?
Clean your aligners every day by rinsing them thoroughly and gently brushing with a soft toothbrush. Do not use hot water, as high temperatures can distort the plastic and affect the fit.
Will I need retainers after treatment?
Yes. Retainers help maintain your new alignment and prevent teeth from shifting back.
Is clear aligner treatment available for teens?
Yes. Many teens are candidates, depending on their stage of dental development.
Dental Cleaning
How long does a dental cleaning take?
Most appointments last 45 minutes to 1 hour. Timing may vary depending on X-rays and buildup levels.
Is dental cleaning uncomfortable?
Cleanings are typically well tolerated. Those with sensitive gums may feel some mild discomfort during scaling. Adjustments can be made as needed.
Do I need a cleaning if I brush and floss daily?
Yes. Brushing and flossing remove daily plaque, but they do not remove hardened tartar. Routine dental cleaning appointments address areas that cannot be fully cleaned at home.
Do you see patients from Guelph?
Yes. Our dental clinic in Fergus, Ontario, welcomes patients from Fergus and surrounding communities, including Guelph.
Dental Fillings FAQ
How long do dental fillings last?
Composite fillings often last several years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene habits, bite pressure, and regular dental visits.
Are composite fillings safe?
Composite fillings are widely used in restorative dentistry. They are tooth-coloured and bond directly to enamel and dentin.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed before treatment. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
How do I know if I need a filling or something more extensive?
An exam and X-rays determine how far decay has progressed. Small cavities typically require fillings, while larger damage may require other restorative options.
Can teens get composite fillings?
Yes. Tooth-coloured fillings are commonly used to treat cavities in teens.
What happens if I delay getting a filling?
Untreated cavities can grow larger and may eventually require more complex treatment, such as a crown or root canal.
Do you offer emergency appointments for broken fillings?
Yes. If a filling falls out or a tooth cracks, contact our office to schedule an assessment as soon as possible.
Children’s Dentistry FAQ
At Country Dental Group, we take children’s dentistry very seriously and we understand that many first-time parents have a lot of questions and concerns regarding their children’s oral health. That’s why we’ve prepared this informative FAQ page that answers many important questions you may have about dentistry for kids. We’re an Etobicoke dental practice that regularly treats children and we’re here to help you in your time of need.
1. How should I care for my child’s teeth?
When your child’s baby teeth come in, you can gently wipe their teeth with a soft and clean washcloth or use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean their teeth. Only use the amount of toothpaste that resembles the size of a grain of rice until they are older.
2. Why are my child’s primary teeth so important?
Primary teeth are important because they can provide a strong foundation for the impending adult teeth, they facilitate your child’s ability to chew food, and they’re essential to early speech development.
3. Do babies need to go to the dentist?
Yes. Generally speaking, you should take your child to the dentist by their first birthday or soon after the first tooth appears. Dental care needs to begin as soon as the first tooth is fully exposed.
4. When should my child start flossing their teeth?
You should start flossing your child’s teeth once they start growing in close proximity to one another (by about age two). By age four or five, they should be able to floss on their own as long as you maintain a steady practice of flossing with them. But some children will need help with flossing until 12 years of age.
5. How can I tell if my child has tooth decay or gum disease?
Tooth decay occurs when dental hygiene is neglected and plaque buildup around the teeth causes erosion. Symptoms include soreness, swollen and bleeding gums, and pain. Ultimately, the best way to identify tooth decay or gum disease is with regular dental check-ups.
6. Should I be worried if my child’s new adult teeth look yellow?
No, yellow adult teeth is simply a sign of the thicker dentin developing in the adult teeth.
7. Is fluoride toothpaste safe for babies?
Generally, it is advisable to use fluoride-based toothpaste during the first few years of your baby’s life. If ingested in high doses, fluoride can be harmful to a child, so many children’s dentists advise using fluoride toothpaste only in very small amounts, like the size of a grain of rice.
8. How many times a day should my child brush their teeth?
Children should brush their teeth at least twice daily: once in the morning and once before bed.
9. Is thumb sucking harmful to my child’s teeth?
While thumb sucking is a perfectly natural soothing mechanism for most children it should stop by the time their adult teeth come in because it can cause serious dental problems like crooked teeth and jaw misalignment.
10. What should I do if my child gets a toothache?
Rinse the affected area with warm salt water. Don’t give your child Aspirin because it has medical ingredients that could exacerbate bleeding and swelling. Instead, give them children’s strength acetaminophen and apply a cold compress to their cheek until you can get them to your local general (or periodontist) where you normally have dental treatment.
11. Are dental x-rays safe for children?
Yes. In children’s dentistry, it’s recommended that x-rays be scheduled. For children who are deemed to be at high risk of tooth decay x-rays may be recommended every six months. X-rays can help identify certain dental or oral issues that are invisible to the naked eye.
12. What should I do if my child has one of their permanent teeth knocked out?
Find the tooth, then gently place it in a saline solution or milk to keep it moist until you get to the dentist’s office. To avoid damaging the root, hold the tooth only by the crown. Thoroughly examine your child’s mouth for fragments of the tooth if it’s broken, and if you live in Etobicoke, take them to the nearest dentist there.
Teeth Whitening FAQ
1. What products are used for professional teeth whitening?
At a modern dental clinic in Fergus, professional whitening treatments use a safe, concentrated whitening gel, often containing hydrogen peroxide. This solution helps break down stains and brighten teeth several shades in a controlled dental setting. Your general dentist in Fergus will choose the strength and method that best suits your teeth and sensitivity level.
2. Where can I get my teeth whitened?
Start with a general dentist in Fergus who offers whitening. Many choose in-office treatment for fast results, while others prefer take-home kits for gradual at-home whitening.
3. Is teeth whitening covered by dental insurance?
Whitening is usually considered cosmetic. Consult your insurance provider about coverage; it is typically paid out of pocket.
4. How much does in-clinic teeth whitening cost?
Professional whitening costs depend on the treatment and the clinic. Fergus clinics may offer in-office or take-home kits. Your dentist will review options and explain pricing at your consultation.
5. How long does teeth whitening take?
In-office whitening in Fergus is often done in a single hour-long visit. At-home custom trays are usually worn for short periods daily for 1 to 2 weeks, per your dentist’s advice.
6. Can teeth whitening damage my teeth?
When performed or supervised by a general dentist in Fergus, teeth whitening is considered safe. Professional products are designed to protect your enamel while effectively removing stains.
7. Will whitening affect fillings, crowns, or veneers?
No. Whitening treatments solely work on natural tooth enamel. Restorations like fillings, crowns, and veneers will not change colour during teeth whitening in Fergus, so your dentist may recommend updating them later if needed to match your brighter smile.
8. Does teeth whitening harm enamel?
Professional whitening treatments used at a modern dental clinic in Fergus are formulated to be safe for enamel. Your dentist will assess oral health before any treatment to ensure whitening is appropriate for you.
9. Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
Some patients experience mild, temporary sensitivity during or after treatment, which usually fades within a few days. If this occurs, your general dentist in Fergus can suggest ways to manage it.
10. How long do teeth whitening results last?
Results from professional teeth whitening in Fergus often last six months to a year or longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene and limiting stain-causing drinks like coffee, tea, artificially coloured juices, or red wine can help your results last longer. Many patients use custom teeth whitening trays in Fergus for occasional touch-ups at home.
Veneers FAQ
How long do dental veneers last?
With good oral hygiene and routine checkups, veneers may last many years before requiring replacement.
Is dental bonding permanent?
Dental bonding is durable but may require touch-ups or replacement over time, especially if the bonded area experiences wear or staining.
Do veneers look natural?
Yes. Veneers are crafted to closely match your surrounding teeth in regard to colour, shape, and size, ensuring a seamless, natural-looking smile.
Can bonding fix chipped teeth?
Yes. Dental bonding is frequently used to restore small chips or minor surface damage. The composite material is artistically sculpted to recreate the tooth’s original look.
How do I know if veneers or bonding is right for me?
A consultation with a general dentist in Fergus can help determine which cosmetic treatment may align with your goals, the condition of your teeth, and the type of improvements you would like to see.
When is the ideal time to get braces?
Technically speaking, there’s no ideal age for individuals to get braces. Patients with orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw can get braces at pretty much any age. With that said, most people find it socially acceptable to install braces during adolescence from ages 10 to 14. During this time, the head and oral cavity are still growing and therefore more susceptible to changes such as teeth straightening.
Are braces painful?
Although you might experience slight discomfort or sensitivity immediately after placement of your braces and following every tightening session, you shouldn’t feel any pain. Notify your dentist immediately if you do feel any pain as it could mean that your braces are too tight and need to be adjusted. Keep in mind that it’s normal to feel some soreness for the first week or so after having braces installed. After that, the soreness should subside.
Which foods should you avoid eating with braces?
Certain foods should be avoided as they can damage the wires, get stuck between your teeth or get stuck in the metal brackets. The types of foods you should generally stay away from include:
- Hard fruits you have to bite into like carrots, corn on the cob, or apples
- Chewy foods like pizza, bagels, bread rolls, licorice
- Sticky foods like gum, caramels, hard candies
- Extremely sugary foods like any type of candy
- Hard or crunchy foods like pretzels, nuts, or crackers
Can you kiss with braces?
Of course! A word of caution though: while kissing your loved ones with braces on is certainly acceptable, just be careful that their lips don’t graze against your front braces as this can cause them to get cut.
Which beverages should I avoid with braces?
Fizzy drinks, soda, natural fruit juices, and even carbonated beverages all contain high amounts of sugar in the form of fructose. These beverages are highly acidic and can erode the natural enamel on your teeth, leading to tooth decay and periodontal disease. If you do indulge in these beverages from time to time, try to limit the amount of direct contact they have with your teeth by using a straw. The same basic principles apply to drinking coffee or tea with braces on. Coffee and dark teas can stain your teeth, so if you do drink them regularly, it’s important to rinse your mouth out immediately afterward.
How much do braces cost for kids and adults?
Orthodontic treatment is personalized depending on the needs of each individual patient and this can influence the overall cost. Price ranges can vary from approximately $3,000 to over $10,000. This is based on the length and intensity of treatment required. Some people only need braces for six months to one year, while others might need to keep them on for much longer. In some cases, braces might also be covered under your dental insurance plan through your place of employment. Before making the financial and orthodontic commitment to getting braces, check with your insurance provider to see how much coverage you have.
Are braces worth the potentially high cost?
Braces are certainly worth the cost because they require professional placement and a great deal of maintenance throughout the treatment process. The end result will leave you with straight teeth, reduced risk of developing future orthodontic problems, and a stunning smile. However, there are other teeth straightening treatment options available that your dentist can recommend if the idea of having metal wires and brackets on your teeth makes you uncomfortable.
Are braces safe?
Yes, braces are completely safe. The only minor potential side effects you may experience after just having your braces installed or tightened is soreness or sensitivity. However, these side effects should subside fairly quickly. Aside from that, you just have to watch what you consume and be sure to clean your braces thoroughly every single day.
How can you whiten your teeth with braces?
To help your pearly whites stay bright and beautiful, we recommend that you brush regularly with a whitening toothpaste. Also, rather than avoiding the healthy foods such as blueberries and strawberries that can stain your teeth, consider rinsing your mouth out immediately after eating them. The same thing goes for coffee and tea. Use straws whenever you can to prevent direct contact of these beverages with your teeth. Floss every night to remove food particles that can easily get lodged in the wires and brackets of your braces. This will help prevent future orthodontic problems.
How can I floss with braces?
Flossing with braces isn’t as difficult as you might think. Using a floss threader—a thin plastic thread with a loop to pull your floss through—is very useful. You can use this to pull the floss through the spaces between your teeth like a sewing needle pulls thread through fabric. Slide the floss gently up and down along your gum line to remove any food particles and plaque, then slowly remove the floss and the threader. Alternatively, there are also mechanical dental devices on the market that spray water in the gum pockets between your teeth to gently blast away any food particles that are lodged there. Ask your dentist for recommendations on the best flossing method for you.
What’s the best way to brush your teeth with braces?
Many patients struggle with effectively brushing their teeth after they’ve had braces installed. Start by thoroughly rinsing out your mouth to remove any loose food particles. Then, rinse your tooth brush with warm water, squeeze out a small amount of toothpaste on top, and angle the brush approximately at a 45-degree angle. Maneuver the brush gently and slowly in small circular motions as you move it across your teeth. This will help it effectively remove as many food particles as possible. Rinsing your mouth out after every meal or snack also facilitates easy cleaning in the morning or at night.
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