Have a question for our experts? This line is open until Friday, April 15th. Rhonda will then answer the top questions and we’ll post her answers right here and on our Facebook Page.
Q: I cannot afford to go to the dentist every six months. What can I do to promote dental health on my own?
A: First please make sure that you are not putting other needs ahead of dental care or any other regular health care. It should rank near the top of your list of basic needs and be a budgeted item not something to do only if you have money left at the end of the year. The dentist will not only clean your teeth preventing gum disease but will also be able to identify any oral problems or overall health problems that may be more expensive later if not caught early. If you must stretch out your appointments it is vital to keep your mouth very clean. Thorough flossing once every day, and brushing your teeth, gums, tongue and cheeks with fluoridated toothpaste 3x a day is a must!
Q: Do whitening toothpastes, strips or gels really work? Which ones are most effective?
A: Yes, over the counter whitening products do whiten your teeth but the result will likely not be as noticeable as you want it to be. For a predictable, noticeably whiter, long-lasting result, home bleaching trays made by a professional dentist under their supervision are the tried and true way to get the results you want.
Q: I have a fear of going to the dentist. What should I do?
A: Tell your dentist your fears, often talking about them can alleviate the stress. Dentists are trained in many methods that can help! Often simply understanding what is involved in the procedure makes all the difference. Your comfort level is as important to your dentist as it is to you. Don’t stay away from the dentist because of your fear, that is a recipe for needing huge amounts of dental work in the future!