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Answers
Q1. What is the most common reason
for a root canal?
A. The most common reason for a root canal
is an infected or abscessed tooth which may result from a deep
cavity,
periodontal
(gum) disease
or a fractured tooth. Also a sharp blow inflicted can interfere
with the flow of blood or damage the pulp.
Q2. Are x-rays safe?
A. The benefits of dental x-rays easily outweigh
the slight risks. Lead aprons can reduce any risks by protecting
vulnerable
body parts.
Digital imaging, which we use in our office, eliminates 80%
of the radition of conventional x-rays.
Q3. What are the signs of tooth
decay?
A. Watch for: White, brown or yellow spots on teeth.
Sensitivity to hot/cold foods. Sensitivity to sweets. However,
some decay is
completely invisible and is only found through laser cavitiy
detection, which we offer at Johnson Dental.
Q4. What is the best age to
have wisdom teeth removed?
A. Removal is simplest between the ages of 17 and
20 years when the roots are usually partially formed. Orthodontic
treatment
may
require earlier removal.
Q5. What is Bruxism?
A. Bruxism is usually a reaction by the patient to
stress or to a malocclusion (bad bite). Excessive grinding of
your teeth
can cause
pain or headaches, neck aches, back pain and wear down your
teeth or increase the severity of periodontal (gum) disease.
Q6. What are the warning signs
of gum disease?
A. Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
Swollen, red, tender or painful gums.
Gums that have separated from teeth.
Pus that appears when gums are pressed.
Loose teeth or teeth that have changed position or tip out towards
the lip.
Teeth that look long due to receding gums.
Changes in the way teeth fit together or the way removable bridges
fit.
Persistent bad taste or bad breath.
Q7. What does Anterior mean?
A. A
reference to the front of the mouth.
Q8. What does root mean?
A. The portion of the tooth which lies beneath the
surface.
Q9. How many permanent teeth
are there?
A. 32
Q10. What are some types of
periodontal disease?
A. The mildest form of this disease is gingivitis,
an inflammation of the gums due to plaque build-up. It is reversible
if treated at
an early stage. The most destructive form of periodontal disease
and the major cause of tooth loss in adults is periodontitis,
which causes irreversible changes in the supporting tissues and
even
destruction of the bone that holds the teeth in place.
We hope these questions and answers were helpful
in understanding your dental needs. Do you have any questions?
Please call 303.422.8748 to book your appointment so that we can
address your concerns. |
