subject: Walnut Creek Dentist Answers Your Dental Questions About Your Teeth & Gums [print this page] Walnut Creek Dentist Answers Your Dental Questions About Your Teeth & Gums
Your questions about your teeth and gums (most frequently asked q's):
Q My dentist has talked to me about not flossing regularly. How can he tell?
A Most dentists and hygienists can tell youre not flossing by the number of cavities you haveparticularly in areas where teeth meetand by irritated, bleeding gums.
Q Ive always taken antibiotics before having a dental procedure, so why am I now told its not necessary?
A For many years, it was believed that antibiotics would prevent infective endocarditis (IE), a dangerous infection of the hearts lining or valves. People were believed to be at greater risk for IE if they have a condition such as mitral valve prolapse or rheumatic heart disease. However, studies have shown that antibiotics and antibiotic resistance are the greater concerns for people with these conditions. Antibiotics should still be taken by people with specific serious cardiac issues, including: a history of having had IE, artificial heart valves, a number of congenital heart conditions and some cardiac transplant patients.
Q Im told I need oral surgery because I have gum disease. Is this painful?
A Oral surgery is commonly used to treat people who have receding gums due to disease or age. In most likelihood, your oral surgeon will graft tissue from the roof of your mouth onto your gums. If a small amount of tissue is involved, local anesthesia will keep you comfortable. If the grafts are larger, your oral surgeon may use general anesthesia or local anesthesia combined with sedation.
Q Should adults get dental sealants?
A Absolutely. Sealants, plastic material bonded to the crevasses of your back teeth, protect adults and children from harmful bacteria and enamel-destroying acids.
Q Is it true that chewing gum can be good for your teeth and gums?
A Yes, clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating can reduce tooth decay. Some brands have ingredients that strengthen tooth enamel, too. Look for gum that has the ADA seal of approval.
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