How often do I need to visit the dentist for a checkup?
The ADA and CREST usually recommend twice a year, and I like to see my patients four times a year because things can happen really quickly. So, if we are always monitoring what is going on in your mouth, oftentimes I can prevent the need for dental treatment. Prevention is always easier. It just means you have to see me more, four times a year, but the bare minimum, if you can, is to see me twice a year.
What are the benefits of fluoride treatment?
Fluoride is the number one long-standing successful action in preventing cavities. So, if you are experiencing dry mouth because you've been prescribed medication recently and you're feeling, oh my gosh, my mouth is more dry, fluoride treatments can help prevent cavities from forming due to your saliva not being as free-flowing. Our saliva flow is the number one defense that we have in washing away the bacteria and the plaque that causes cavities. Another thing you can do is definitely brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once. If you cannot floss or if you're experiencing arthritis or your fingers aren't as nimble, we definitely love the Waterpik because it's just point and shoot, and that'll also help.
Why would I need x-rays and are they safe?
Another question that I get is why do I need to get x-rays when I see you so often, Doc? We recommend x-rays once a year, and that is just because I cannot see what's going on inside your teeth. I wish I had x-ray vision like Superman, but I don't, and so it just helps for me to be able to see what is going on inside, beyond your gums, beyond your teeth that I cannot see. Oftentimes, when our teeth form cavities or start rotting, it's in between the teeth, and it takes for the cavity to have progressed quite a bit for us to actually see the discoloration or the change in texture, meaning the tooth is starting to get soft and mushy. So before it gets to that point, we always like to make sure everything is going as it should be, and if we can just prevent, prevention is the key. If we can prevent dental treatment, that would be the best for the patient. So that's why we recommend x-rays once a year.
The other question I get behind that is, are x-rays safe? Is it okay for me to get x-rays that often? The answer is definitely yes. Believe it or not, with technological advances, the type of radiation a patient gets from dental x-rays is way less than the radiation we would get standing in front of the microwave. So if you're not afraid of standing in front of the microwave, you should not be afraid of getting dental x-rays.
What causes gum disease and how can I prevent it?
One of the first early signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, and it doesn't have to be gushing blood. If you are brushing and or flossing and you notice an area that is causing bleeding or you don't know where it's coming from, but when you swish and spit after brushing, you see blood, that means you have early signs of gum disease. If you look at my model right here, this side is just the picture of health. The gums are pink, tight, not puffy, or bleeding. This side would be early stages, middle stages, late stages of gum disease, and that is where gums are bleeding, inflamed, or receding. If you are experiencing any of these things, then that means you are on the path of gum disease.
The trick to gum disease is to prevent it, but once you have it, then the trick to it is one, catching it early and maintaining it at the level that it's being caught so that it doesn't continue to worsen. That way, you don't end up losing teeth. Once you have gum disease, you always have gum disease. It's a silent disease like diabetes, there's no cure for it, but just like millions of Americans that have diabetes, they can live healthy lifestyles if one, they catch it early, and two, they maintain it so that it's under control and it doesn't continue to worsen. It's the same thing with gum disease. Catch it early, maintain it, and control it so that it doesn't continue to worsen.
I hope I was able to answer some of the common questions that I often get. If you have any other questions, please give me a call back at (702) 819-0866. I would love to meet you and answer any of the questions that this video may have given you, or if you're wondering about anything else regarding your teeth, your gums, or your smile, I would love to answer them for you in person. So come see me!
At Sunbrite Dental, your preventative dental care visits are not just routine appointments; they are essential steps toward safeguarding your long-term oral health. Each time you come in for dental cleanings and examinations, our dedicated team has the opportunity to identify potential issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or even abscesses during the early stages. Recognizing these problems as soon as possible allows us to initiate effective treatments more rapidly, significantly minimizing any further complications.
We encourage you to schedule preventative visits regularly—these appointments play a pivotal role in maintaining your overall wellness. Our experienced dentists in Las Vegas are here to help educate you on the best practices for oral health maintenance, ensuring that you have the tools and knowledge needed for effective at-home care between visits. If we find significant plaque during your cleaning, we will work with you to develop a personalized dental care routine tailored specifically to your needs, promoting gum disease prevention and better oral hygiene.
Our commitment to providing comprehensive dental care extends beyond cleanings and examinations. To protect your smile, we offer advanced dental technology and personalized solutions like dental night guards. These custom-made guards are specifically designed to combat teeth grinding—a condition known as bruxism that can lead to severe dental wear and discomfort if left untreated. Additionally, we provide sports dental guards, which are crucial for athletes, minimizing the risk of dental injuries during physical activities. Whatever your oral health needs may be, whether it's a preventative measure or specialized care, Sunbrite Dental is here to support and protect your smile.
The importance of oral health education cannot be overstated in our family dentistry practice. We believe that informed patients are empowered patients. Our team takes the time to provide clear and engaging information about how to maintain a healthy mouth, including practical tips on plaque removal and the proper frequency for dental checkups. This education not only benefits you but also extends to your family, as we offer pediatric dentistry services designed specifically for children. Our warm and friendly environment makes it comfortable for younger patients to receive care and learn good dental habits that will last a lifetime.
At Sunbrite Dental, we strive to make every visit a positive experience, fostering a community-focused atmosphere where you can feel relaxed and valued. Our goal is simple: to help you keep every last tooth in your mouth and ensure that your experience with us is stress-free. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing compassionate care that feels personal; when you come to us, you are not just another patient but a valued member of our dental family in Las Vegas.
Moreover, maintaining a strong local presence allows us to cater to the specific dental needs of our community. We understand the unique lifestyle of families in Las Vegas, and we are proud to offer a wide variety of comprehensive dental services under one roof. From emergency dental care to restorative treatments such as dental crowns and bridges, we are equipped to handle all aspects of your dental health.
The utilization of advanced dental technology at Sunbrite Dental cannot be overlooked. Our clinic employs innovations like digital X-rays, which significantly enhance the diagnostic process. This means quicker results and less radiation exposure for our patients. Furthermore, our experienced dentists continually pursue professional development to keep abreast of the latest dental technology and techniques. This commitment ensures that you receive nothing short of the highest standard of care.
In addition to routine treatments, we actively engage in community support initiatives, providing educational resources and participating in local events. Our practice is revered for its dedication not just to dental health, but to the well-being of the community. From participating in charity drives to supporting local schools, we believe in giving back to those who have put their trust in us.
When you choose Sunbrite Dental for your preventative dental care, you are choosing a practice that places a strong emphasis on personalized care. Whether you require a routine cleaning or have more specific needs related to gum disease prevention or customized treatments, we ensure our services align with your expectations. We invite you to join our dental family, where your oral health is our top priority. Together, let’s create a plan that emphasizes preventive care while ensuring your smile remains bright and healthy.
Keep your teeth with prevention! By actively prioritizing your dental health and scheduling preventative visits, you're not just investing in your smile; you’re investing in your overall well-being. At Sunbrite Dental in Las Vegas, we look forward to partnering with you to maintain optimal oral health for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive dental care services and how we can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.