Frequently Asked Questions

See the answers to a variety of questions we’ve received or we feel may be helpful to you, below.

What is periodontal disease?

Found in 80% of American adults, periodontal disease is a silent disease of the gums that contributes to tooth loss. In the gum pocket around each tooth bacteria produces toxins that stimulate the body’s immune system. The resulting inflammatory response causes the gums to separate from the tooth and the bone, and the gums adjacent to the tooth to recede. Additionally, research has shown gum infections have implications in general health such as heart disease. To learn more about periodontal disease [click here].

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is the destruction of hard tooth structure by bacterial by-products. Plaque, a sticky film by-product of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. When you eat or drink foods containing sugars, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The stickiness of the plaque keeps these acids in contact with your teeth and over time the tooth can break down. This is when cavities can form. To learn more about tooth decay [click here].

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of teeth and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth. Veneers are placed to mask discolorations, brighten teeth and improve a smile. Veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns in many situations. They provide a much more conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color, size or shape. Veneers can mask undesirable defects and generally last for many years. To learn more about veneers [click here].

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath, or more formally called halitosis, can result from poor dental health, lung gases or stomach odors. Certain foods or unhealthy lifestyle habits may also contribute to halitosis. To learn more about bad breath [click here].

How safe are dental x-rays?

Not only do digital x-rays allow immediate viewing, more compact storage, enhanced viewing and email communication between dental practitioners, they also require less radiation than traditional film-based x-rays. To learn more about the safety of dental x-rays [click here].

What are the benefits of fluoride?

Fluoride, found naturally in water, is regulated to an optimal level in public water supplies at about 1 part per million for tooth development and bone growth. In school studies fluoride has been shown to dramatically reduce dental decay in children. To learn more about the benefits of fluoride [click here].