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(561) 272-5858
FAQs

Common Questions Asked by Our Patients

Below are some frequently asked questions that our patients have about dentistry and their oral health issues.  If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.

Click on a question below to see the answer.

What Can I Do About Stained or Discolored Teeth?

Teeth whitening is one of the most requested cosmetic dental treatments today, and for good reason—it’s a simple way to refresh and brighten your smile. While there are many over-the-counter products available, professional whitening performed by your dentist is far more effective and safer, offering noticeable results in less time.

Professional whitening (also called bleaching) is a non-invasive treatment that lightens the natural enamel of your teeth. It’s ideal for removing stains caused by aging, smoking, and common foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine. Some discoloration may also come from the inside of the tooth, or from early exposure to certain medications or excessive fluoride (fluorosis).

Before beginning treatment, your dentist will evaluate your teeth to determine the cause of discoloration and whether whitening is right for you. Certain types of staining—like those caused by tetracycline or fluorosis—can be harder to treat with bleaching alone. In these cases, your dentist may recommend options like porcelain veneers or crowns for better results.

It’s also important to note that whitening only works on natural teeth—not on crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have dental restorations, your dentist may suggest replacing them after whitening to ensure a consistent shade across your smile.

Though whitening results aren’t permanent, they can last for several years. Occasional touch-ups will help keep your smile looking its best.

Professional Whitening Options:

At-Home Whitening Trays: Custom trays filled with whitening gel are worn at home—either for short periods during the day or overnight. Results typically appear within a few weeks.

In-Office Whitening: Done right in the dental office, this treatment delivers immediate results. A professional-grade whitening solution is applied to the teeth, sometimes activated with a special light. Multiple visits may be needed for deeper stains.

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

Teeth whitening is a fast and effective way to boost your confidence and achieve a whiter, more vibrant smile.

How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?

Gum disease often develops gradually, and early stages may have subtle symptoms. Here are the key warning signs to watch for:

Early Signs (Gingivitis):

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste
  • Gums that appear to be pulling away from teeth

Advanced Signs (Periodontitis):

  • Persistent bleeding and swelling
  • Receding gums that make teeth appear longer
  • Deep pockets forming between teeth and gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Changes in your bite
  • Painful chewing
  • Pus between teeth and gums

Important Note: Many people with gum disease experience no pain or discomfort, especially in early stages. This is why regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment.

When to Seek Professional Care: If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment promptly. Early intervention can prevent progression from gingivitis to more serious periodontitis. Our Delray Beach practice can provide a comprehensive evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan.

Remember, gum disease is highly treatable when caught early, but it requires professional care to effectively manage and reverse.

How Often Should I Have a Dental Exam and Cleaning?

You should have your teeth examined and cleaned at least twice yearly, though your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.

Regular dental exams and cleanings are essential for preventing dental problems and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. During these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally, many other aspects are evaluated to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health, including:

  • Medical History Review: Understanding your current medical conditions, new medications, and illnesses gives us insight into your overall and dental health.
  • Diagnostic X-ray Examination: Essential for detecting decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
  • Oral Cancer Screening: We check your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum Disease Evaluation: We examine gums and bone around teeth for signs of periodontal disease.
  • Tooth Decay Examination: All tooth surfaces are checked for decay using special dental instruments.
  • Existing Restoration Examination: We check current fillings, crowns, and other restorations.
  • Calculus (Tartar) Removal: Calculus is hardened plaque firmly attached to tooth surfaces. It forms above and below the gumline and requires special dental instruments for removal.
  • Plaque Removal: Plaque is a sticky, nearly invisible film on teeth containing living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. These bacteria produce toxins that inflame gums, starting periodontal disease.
  • Teeth Polishing: Removes stains and plaque not eliminated during regular brushing and scaling.
  • Oral Hygiene Recommendations: We review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed (electric toothbrushes, special cleaning tools, fluorides, rinses, etc.).
  • Dietary Habit Review: Your eating habits play a crucial role in your dental health.

As you can see, a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning involves much more than checking for cavities and polishing teeth. We're committed to providing the best possible care, which requires regular checkups and cleanings.

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, veneers are bonded to your natural teeth to improve their shape, size, color, and overall appearance.

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental solution because they provide dramatic, natural-looking results with minimal alteration to your existing teeth. Each veneer is crafted to match your desired shade and fit seamlessly with your smile.

Porcelain veneers can correct a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:

  • Stains or discoloration that don't respond to whitening treatments

  • Chipped or worn teeth

  • Slightly crooked or uneven teeth

  • Gaps between teeth

  • Misshapen or disproportionately small teeth

The process usually takes two visits. During the first appointment, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of each tooth to make room for the veneer. Then, impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are created. At the second visit, the veneers are carefully placed and bonded to your teeth.

Veneers are stain-resistant, durable, and can last 10–15 years or more with good oral hygiene. They’re an excellent option if you're looking to enhance your smile in a way that looks natural and feels comfortable.

If you’re ready to boost your confidence and transform your smile, porcelain veneers might be the right choice. Your dentist can help you decide if they’re a good fit for your needs and goals.

How Often Should I Brush and Floss?

Regular brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that adheres to your teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. When plaque isn't removed, it hardens into calculus (tartar). If left untreated, plaque and calculus destroy gums and bone, leading to periodontal (gum) disease.

Plaque formation is continuous and can only be controlled through regular brushing, flossing, and other dental aids.

Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice daily (especially before bedtime) using an ADA-approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

  • Brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums, using gentle, small circular motions, ensuring you always feel the bristles on your gums.
  • Brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
  • Use the brush tip to clean inside your front teeth.
  • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Electric toothbrushes are highly recommended. They're easy to use and remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles on your gums and teeth, allowing the brush to work on several teeth at a time.

FlossingDaily flossing is the most effective way to clean between teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only cleans these areas but disrupts plaque colonies, preventing damage to gums, teeth, and bone.

  • Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches between your hands.
  • Using thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert it between teeth with a sawing motion.
  • Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move up and down, cleaning each tooth's side.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty with conventional floss.

Rinsing – Rinse your mouth with water after brushing and after meals when you can't brush. If using an over-the-counter rinse, consult your dentist or hygienist about its appropriateness for your needs.

What should I do if I have bad breath (halitosis)?

Bad breath (halitosis) affects millions of people and can significantly impact confidence and social interactions. Fortunately, most cases are preventable and treatable with proper oral care and lifestyle changes.

Immediate Steps:

  • Brush teeth twice daily and floss regularly
  • Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush
  • Use antimicrobial mouthwash
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production

Common Causes:

  • Poor oral hygiene allowing bacteria buildup
  • Dry mouth (reduced saliva flow)
  • Food particles and strong-smelling foods (garlic, onions)
  • Gum disease or tooth decay
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Certain medications
  • Medical conditions (diabetes, acid reflux, sinus infections)

Prevention Strategies:

  • Maintain consistent oral hygiene routine
  • Regular dental cleanings and checkups
  • Replace toothbrush every 3-4 months
  • Avoid tobacco products
  • Limit alcohol and coffee consumption
  • Eat regular meals to prevent dry mouth
  • Choose fresh fruits and vegetables over sticky, sugary foods

When to See a Professional: If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, consult your dentist or doctor. Chronic halitosis may indicate underlying dental problems like gum disease, or medical conditions requiring treatment.

Quick Fixes: While waiting for professional care, rinse with salt water, eat parsley or mint, and avoid foods that worsen the problem. However, these are temporary solutions - addressing the root cause is essential for long-term relief.

Most cases of bad breath are easily treatable with proper oral care and lifestyle adjustments.

Are Amalgam (Silver) Fillings Safe?

Over the years, concerns have been raised about the safety of amalgam (silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin, and zinc bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this metal blend to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy stems from claims that exposure to mercury vapor and particles can cause various health problems.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), up to 76% of dentists use mercury-containing silver fillings. The ADA states that silver fillings are safe and that studies have found no link between mercury-containing silver fillings and medical disorders.

The general consensus is that amalgam (silver) fillings are safe. Along with the ADA's position, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization, FDA, and other organizations support silver fillings as safe, durable, and cost-effective. The U.S. Public Health Service says the only reason to avoid silver fillings is if a patient has an allergy to any filling component. The ADA has reported fewer than 100 allergic reactions to silver filling components out of countless millions of fillings placed over decades.

While studies show no measurable health risks for patients with silver fillings, we know mercury is toxic when exposure reaches high, unsafe levels. For example, we're warned to limit consumption of certain fish with high mercury levels. However, regarding amalgam fillings, the ADA maintains that when mercury combines with other filling components, it becomes an inactive, safe substance.

Numerous alternatives to silver fillings exist, including composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, and gold fillings. We encourage you to discuss these options with your dentist to determine the best choice for your needs.

Why is it important to use dental floss?

Flossing is essential because it removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline—areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Without flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Flossing daily supports healthy gums and helps prevent more serious dental issues over time.

How can I floss properly?
Start with about 18 inches of floss, winding most around one finger and the rest around the opposite finger. Gently slide the floss between two teeth, being careful not to snap it. Curve it into a C-shape around one tooth and slide it up and down along the side of the tooth and just under the gumline. Repeat on the other side of the gap, then move to the next tooth with a clean section of floss. Be gentle—flossing shouldn’t hurt or cause significant bleeding unless your gums are inflamed. With daily practice, it becomes quick and effective.

How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?

If you're self-conscious about your teeth or simply want a brighter, more confident smile, cosmetic dentistry may be the solution.

In recent years, cosmetic dental treatments have grown in popularity—not just because of the advancements in procedures and materials, but also because more people are prioritizing their health and appearance. A healthy, radiant smile is an important part of looking and feeling your best.

Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of treatments to enhance the appearance of your teeth. Whether you're looking to fix a single issue or completely transform your smile, there are options available to meet your needs. Your dentist can recommend the best approach to improve both the health and beauty of your smile.

Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Teeth Whitening:
Professional whitening treatments can remove stains caused by age, food, beverages, or smoking. Even teeth darkened by injury or certain medications may benefit, depending on the type and extent of discoloration.

Tooth-Colored Fillings (Bonding):
Composite fillings are a natural-looking alternative to silver fillings. They’re used to repair cavities, replace old fillings, fix chipped or discolored teeth, close small gaps, and protect exposed roots caused by gum recession.

Porcelain Veneers:
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of your teeth. They can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, stained, misaligned, or irregularly shaped—with minimal tooth reduction required.

Porcelain Crowns:
Crowns are full-coverage restorations that protect and strengthen damaged or decayed teeth. They are ideal for teeth with large fillings, fractures, or significant decay.

Dental Implants:
Implants replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial roots into the jawbone. They support crowns, bridges, or dentures and offer a stable, long-lasting alternative to removable appliances.

Orthodontics:
Modern braces are smaller and more discreet, and clear aligners offer a nearly invisible option for straightening teeth. These advancements make orthodontic treatment more comfortable and appealing for adults.

Contact Us Today
See how we can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve.

Phone:  (561) 272-5858  Fax:  (561) 272-5615  Address: 505 S.E. 6th Ave., Suite A  Delray Beach,  Fl 33483

Hours: Monday and Wednesday 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M., Tuesday and Thursday 8:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M., Friday: 8:00 A.M. - 12 P.M.

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