Straight Answers to Everyday Dental Questions
Good dental decisions start with good information. Dr. Puneet Sandhu and our Phoenix team believe every patient deserves clear, honest answers. Below, you will find answers to common questions about checkups, brushing, flossing, toothpaste, mouthwash, and tooth sensitivity. Have another question? Call our office and we will happily help you.
It’s typically recommended that everyone should get a professional dental checkup and teeth cleaning at least twice a year, but the truth is that some patients (such as those with gum disease) should come in more often. Dr. Sandhu will let you know what frequency is best for you and your situation after your first appointment.
The truth is that both types of toothbrushes have been shown to be very effective at removing cavity-causing plaque, so you can use whichever one works best for you. Electric toothbrushes do tend to be a bit better for children and adults with mobility issues since they do a lot of the work, but a manual toothbrush is just fine with the right technique.
In general, a fluoridated toothpaste that is not designed for whitening is the ideal choice for most people. Fluoride is proven to strengthen the enamel and make it more resistant to tooth decay. It’s best to avoid whitening toothpastes because many of them feature abrasive ingredients intended to remove stains that can ultimately lead to increased sensitivity.
While the American Dental Association says that flossing once in the evening is enough, the truth is that many people could benefit from flossing after lunch as well. It all depends on the orientation of your teeth and how often food becomes trapped between them. What isn’t in question is that EVERYONE should be flossing as part of their daily oral hygiene routine.
Mouthwash is a great addition to brushing and flossing as it’s able to remove bacteria from the areas of the mouth that the other methods can’t reach. It should be noted that patients should only use non-alcoholic mouthwash, as any alcohol can lead to dry mouth and an overall increase in harmful oral bacteria.
Dental sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can point to many things. The enamel might be a little thin, or there could be a crack or hole in the tooth that is exposing the nerve. If your tooth is only sensitive when it’s in contact with a hot or cold substance, it’s usually not a big deal. However, if the soreness persists for 30 seconds or more, then there might be a bigger problem, in which case you should contact us so you can get checked out.
