Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about dental care and oral health. If there’s something not covered here or you’d like to book an appointment, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help.

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Bad breath (also called halitosis) can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Many people aren’t even aware they have it—though it’s quite common and tends to be more noticeable in the morning.

In otherwise healthy individuals, the main cause is bacteria collecting on the tongue, particularly toward the back. Studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue can reduce bad breath by up to 70%.

What causes bad breath?

There are many possible contributors, including:

  • Morning dryness – Saliva slows down while you sleep, allowing bacteria to grow.
  • Certain foods – Garlic, onions, and similar foods enter the bloodstream and lungs, where the odor is exhaled.
  • Inadequate oral hygiene – Food particles left in the mouth promote bacterial buildup.
  • Gum disease – Bacteria and debris can collect under inflamed gum tissue.
  • Tooth decay or poorly fitting dental appliances – These may trap bacteria and cause odor.
  • Dry mouth (xerostomia) – May result from certain medications, salivary gland problems, or chronic mouth breathing.
  • Tobacco use – Smoking and chewing tobacco dry out the mouth and contribute to odor.
  • Dieting – When the body burns fat, it releases ketones, which can create a noticeable smell on the breath.
  • Dehydration, hunger, or skipping meals – Less saliva is produced, reducing the mouth’s natural cleansing.
  • Medical conditions – Diabetes, liver or kidney disease, chronic sinus issues, bronchitis, and pneumonia can all contribute.

Keeping track of your food intake and reviewing your medications, recent surgeries, or health issues with your dentist can help pinpoint the source.

How can I prevent bad breath?

There are several daily habits that can make a big difference:

  • Brush and floss regularly – Use fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and floss once daily to remove plaque and debris.
  • Clean your tongue – Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to reach the back areas of the tongue.</li.
  • Replace your toothbrush every 2–3 months – Worn brushes are less effective.
  • Clean dentures and removable bridges – These should be cleaned thoroughly each day.
  • Visit your dentist regularly – Get checkups and cleanings at least twice a year, or more frequently if you’ve had gum disease.
  • Quit smoking or chewing tobacco – Ask your dentist for help if needed.
  • Drink water often – Staying hydrated helps rinse away bacteria.
  • Use mouth rinses wisely – Many over-the-counter rinses only mask odors temporarily. Your dentist may recommend a stronger antiseptic rinse that targets bacteria.

In many cases, your dentist can identify and treat the cause of bad breath. If your mouth is healthy and the issue continues, you may be referred to a physician to explore other potential causes and treatment options.

Brushing and flossing regularly are essential for removing plaque and keeping bacteria under control. Plaque is a sticky film made up of food particles, bacteria, and saliva that clings to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque break down certain foods into acids, which can lead to tooth decay. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which contributes to gum disease by damaging the bone and gum tissue.

Because plaque forms continuously, the only way to manage it is through consistent oral care—including brushing, flossing, and other helpful dental tools.

 

How should I brush my teeth?

You should brush at least twice a day, especially before bedtime, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste approved by the ADA. Follow these steps for effective brushing:

  • Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. 
  • Use gentle, circular motions, making sure the bristles reach the gums.
    Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
  • Use the tip of the brush to clean behind your front teeth.
    Don’t forget to brush your tongue to reduce bacteria and improve breath.

Electric toothbrushes are a great option too. They’re easy to use and effective at removing plaque. Just place the bristles on your teeth and gums and let the brush work across a few teeth at a time.

 

What’s the best way to floss?

Flossing every day is the most effective way to clean between your teeth and under the gumline—areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing breaks up plaque colonies and helps prevent damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Here’s how to do it properly:

  • Use 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) of floss, wrapping most of it around your middle fingers and leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) to work with.
  • Guide the floss between your teeth using your thumbs and forefingers.
  • Gently slide the floss between the teeth using a sawing motion.
  • Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and slide it under the gumline.
  • Move the floss up and down to clean the side of each tooth.

If traditional flossing is difficult, floss holders are a great alternative and make it easier to reach tight spots.

 

Should I rinse my mouth too?

Yes—rinsing with water after brushing and after meals helps wash away food particles and bacteria. If you’re using a store-bought mouthwash, check with your dentist or hygienist to make sure it’s right for your specific needs.

Concerns have been raised over the years about the safety of silver, or amalgam fillings. These fillings are made from a mixture of metals including silver, copper, tin, and zinc, held together by elemental mercury. Dentists have been using amalgam to fill cavities for over a century, but some people worry about possible health risks from exposure to mercury vapor or particles.

 

Do silver fillings contain mercury?

Yes, they do—but it’s important to understand how it functions in the filling. The mercury binds with the other metals to create a stable, solid material. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), once the filling is set, the mercury becomes inactive and is not considered harmful at the levels used in dentistry.

 

What do health organizations say?

The ADA reports that up to 76% of dentists still use amalgam fillings. They also affirm that extensive research has not found any proven link between mercury-containing fillings and health problems. Their stance is backed by other respected organizations including:

All support the continued use of silver fillings, describing them as safe, strong, and cost-effective. The only exception is for individuals with a known allergy to any of the metals in amalgam. However, such allergies are extremely rare—fewer than 100 cases have ever been reported to the ADA despite the millions of silver fillings placed over decades.

 

If mercury is toxic, should I be concerned?

While mercury is indeed toxic in high quantities—such as the levels found in certain types of fish—it behaves differently when mixed into a dental amalgam. The mercury in fillings becomes chemically bound and stable, which means it doesn’t pose the same risks. Current scientific studies do not show any measurable health threat to patients with silver fillings.

 

Are there alternatives to silver fillings?

Yes. If you prefer a different type of material, other options include composite (tooth-colored) fillings, porcelain, or gold. Each has its own benefits and considerations. It’s a good idea to speak with your dentist to determine which option best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Most people should visit the dentist at least twice a year for a routine exam and professional cleaning. However, depending on your oral health needs, your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent appointments.

These visits are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and for catching problems early—before they turn into more serious concerns. In addition to checking for cavities and cleaning your teeth, your dental team performs several other evaluations to support your overall oral health:

  • Review of your medical history – Updates on medical conditions, medications, or recent illnesses help your dental team understand how your overall health may impact your teeth and gums.
  • X-ray examination – Diagnostic radiographs are used to detect hidden problems like cavities, bone loss, cysts, tumors, or issues with tooth and root positioning.
  • Oral cancer screening – The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, gums, and tissues are checked for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum health evaluation – The gums and underlying bone are examined for signs of periodontal disease.
  • Check for tooth decay – All tooth surfaces are examined using dental instruments to detect decay.
  • Assessment of existing dental work – Fillings, crowns, and other restorations are checked for damage or wear.
  • Tartar removal – Calculus (hardened plaque) forms above and below the gumline and can only be removed with special tools.
  • Plaque removal – This sticky film is filled with bacteria that produce toxins, leading to gum inflammation and eventually gum disease.
  • Polishing the teeth – This step removes surface stains and any plaque not eliminated during brushing or scaling.
  • Personalized oral hygiene advice – Your dentist may recommend electric toothbrushes, fluoride products, rinses, or other cleaning aids based on your needs.
  • Dietary review – Since what you eat directly affects your oral health, your dentist may offer advice on nutrition and habits.

As you can see, a dental visit involves far more than just a quick cleaning. Regular exams and cleanings are key to preventing problems, maintaining a healthy smile, and receiving the highest level of dental care.

Gum disease is more common than most people realize—about four out of five individuals have some form of it and don’t even know. That’s because gum disease is typically painless in its early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which can cause discomfort early on, periodontal disease often develops silently. This makes regular dental checkups and periodontal evaluations especially important for early detection.

Gum disease begins when plaque—a sticky, invisible film made of bacteria, food debris, and saliva—is left on the teeth and along the gumline. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate the gums and gradually break down the bone that supports the teeth. Brushing and flossing correctly every day is key to keeping plaque from building up and causing damage.

Are there risk factors that make gum disease more likely?

Yes, several factors aside from oral hygiene can raise your risk:

  • Tobacco use – Smoking or chewing tobacco increases the buildup of plaque and tartar.
  • Dental issues – Ill-fitting bridges, crowded teeth, or old fillings can trap bacteria and make plaque harder to remove.
  • Medications – Steroids, cancer drugs, blood pressure medications, and oral contraceptives may cause dry mouth, making it easier for plaque to stick to teeth.
  • Hormonal changes – Puberty, pregnancy, and birth control can make gum tissue more sensitive to bacteria.
  • Systemic health conditions – Diseases like diabetes, blood disorders, or HIV/AIDS may make you more vulnerable to infection.
  • Genetics – Some people are genetically predisposed to aggressive forms of gum disease, especially if there’s a family history of tooth loss.

What are the signs I should watch for?

Here are the most common symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis:

  • Red, swollen gums – Healthy gums should be firm and pink.
  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing – Gums shouldn’t bleed, even with vigorous brushing.
  • Chronic bad breath – Persistent odor may be caused by bacteria below the gumline.
  • New gaps between teeth – This may be a sign of bone loss.
  • Loose or shifting teeth – Can be due to bone deterioration or weakened support structures.
  • Pus between the gums and teeth – Often a sign of active infection.
  • Gum recession – Gums pulling away from the tooth can indicate loss of tissue.
  • Tenderness or discomfort – Inflammation from plaque, tartar, or bacteria can irritate the gums.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and keeping up with regular dental visits can greatly reduce your risk of developing gum disease—or help manage it if it’s already present.

While brushing is essential for cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, it can’t reach the tight spaces between them. These areas are especially vulnerable to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. That’s where dental floss comes in—it’s the most effective way to remove debris and bacteria from between your teeth and just under the gumline.

Daily flossing helps disrupt the colonies of plaque that form in these hard-to-reach areas, preventing damage to your teeth, gums, and the bone that supports them.

Plaque is a sticky, nearly invisible film made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. The bacteria in plaque release acids that lead to cavities and inflame the gums. If left behind, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which irritates the gums and gradually destroys the bone—marking the early stages of gum disease.

How do I floss the right way?

To get the full benefit of flossing, proper technique is key:

  • Use about 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) of dental floss, wrapping most of it around your middle fingers and leaving 2 inches (5 cm) to work with.
  • Hold the floss between your thumbs and forefingers, and gently guide it between your teeth using a back-and-forth sawing motion.
  • Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and slide it beneath the gumline.
  • Move the floss up and down to clean the side of each tooth thoroughly.

If regular floss is tricky to manage, floss holders are a helpful alternative.

Making flossing part of your daily routine is one of the simplest ways to keep your smile clean, healthy, and lasting for years to come.

If you’re feeling self-conscious about the look of your teeth or simply want a brighter, more polished smile, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of solutions to help enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

The popularity of cosmetic dentistry has grown in recent years—not just because of the advanced procedures and materials now available, but also because more people are paying attention to their overall health and appearance. A healthier, more radiant smile is a big part of that.

Cosmetic treatments can address everything from small imperfections to a full smile makeover. Depending on your needs, your dentist can recommend procedures to improve the shape, color, spacing, and alignment of your teeth.

 

What types of cosmetic procedures are available?

There are several options that can dramatically improve your smile:

  • Teeth Whitening – Professional bleaching can lift stains caused by aging, certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, or even medications. The results depend on the level and type of discoloration, but whitening is often one of the quickest ways to brighten your smile.
  • Composite Fillings (Bonding) – These tooth-colored materials are used to treat cavities, replace old silver fillings, or repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. Bonding can also be used to fill small gaps or cover exposed root surfaces caused by receding gums.
  • Porcelain Veneers – Veneers are ultra-thin shells custom-made to fit over the front of your teeth. They’re ideal for masking issues like discoloration, minor misalignment, chips, or poor shape. Veneers require minimal reshaping of the natural tooth.
  • Porcelain Crowns (Caps) – A crown is a custom restoration that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s original size, strength, and appearance—perfect for teeth with large fractures, deep decay, or failing fillings.
  • Dental Implants – Implants are titanium posts placed in the jawbone to act as artificial roots for missing teeth. They support crowns, bridges, or dentures and offer a strong, long-lasting alternative to removable appliances.
  • Orthodontics – Modern orthodontic options include discreet brackets and wires, or clear aligners that can straighten teeth without traditional braces. These advancements have made orthodontics more attractive to adults seeking subtle smile improvements.

With the help of cosmetic dentistry, your smile can look healthier, more even, and noticeably brighter. Talk to your dentist to explore which options may work best for you.

What are porcelain veneers and how can they improve my smile?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. Made from durable, tooth-colored porcelain, they’re shaped and shaded specifically for your smile. Veneers resist staining and offer a long-lasting solution for enhancing the appearance of your teeth, making them a popular choice for cosmetic improvement.

What dental concerns can veneers fix?

Porcelain veneers can help correct a variety of cosmetic issues, including:

  • Severely stained or discolored teeth
  • Gaps or uneven spacing between teeth
  • Teeth that are worn down or chipped
  • Slightly crowded or misaligned teeth
  • Irregularly shaped teeth
  • Teeth that appear too small or too large

What’s the process like?

Getting veneers typically involves two dental visits. First, your dentist will take impressions (molds) of your teeth, which are sent to a professional dental lab. There, each veneer is crafted to match your desired shape and color.

Minimal preparation is needed—often with little or no anesthesia. Your dentist will gently buff and shape the front surfaces of your teeth to make room for the veneer’s thin layer. Once the veneers are ready, they’re bonded to your teeth using a strong dental cement, and sometimes a special light is used to help set the bond.

Porcelain veneers can make a significant difference in the way your teeth look, giving you a natural, healthy-looking, and confident smile.

Teeth whitening has become one of the most requested cosmetic treatments, and there are now several options available for brightening your smile. Professional whitening is a safe, non-invasive procedure designed to lighten the shade of your natural enamel. While store-bought products exist, they’re generally less effective than treatments done under the supervision of a dentist and may not have ADA approval.

Tooth discoloration can happen for several reasons. As we age, the enamel on our teeth gradually wears down, revealing the darker dentin underneath. Other common causes of staining include:

  • Smoking
  • Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine
  • Certain childhood medications, such as tetracycline
  • Excess fluoride exposure during tooth development (fluorosis)

Am I a candidate for teeth whitening?

Before whitening your teeth, your dentist will evaluate your mouth to determine if bleaching is a good option for you. Stains from medications or fluorosis can be harder to treat with whitening alone. In such cases, your dentist may suggest alternatives like veneers or crowns to achieve your desired look.

Since whitening only works on natural enamel, any old restorations (fillings, crowns, etc.) may need to be replaced after treatment to match the new tooth color. Touch-ups may also be necessary every few years, especially if you continue to consume stain-causing foods or drinks.

What professional whitening options are available?

  • At-home whitening kits – Your dentist can provide custom trays and a whitening gel to use at home. The trays are typically worn twice daily for about 30 minutes, or overnight, for a few weeks until results are achieved.
  • In-office whitening – This treatment takes place at your dental office and provides immediate results. A protective barrier is placed on your gums while a bleaching solution is applied to the teeth. A special light may be used to speed up the whitening process. Multiple visits may be needed for more significant results.

Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity after whitening, but this usually fades within a few days to a week.

Teeth whitening is a simple and effective way to brighten your smile and boost your confidence.

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