FAQs

• New Patients
• Services and Cosmetic Procedures
• Post Operative Care and Accidents
• Prevention and Home Care
• Miscellaneous

Prevention and Home Care

• Do I really have to floss every day? I mean, what's the big deal?
• Is it bad if my gums bleed after I brush my teeth?
• How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?
• My breath has a terrible odor, but I brush every day. Is it just me, or is there something you can do to help?

Do I really have to floss every day? I mean, what's the big deal?

A little regular flossing goes a long way, and is truly critical for your overall oral health. It loosens food particles in tight spaces that your toothbrush cannot reach; it gets rid of plaque buildup that toothbrushes alone cannot remove; and it exercises your gum tissues. All of which is necessary to avoid gum disease. So, just think of daily flossing as the finishing touch after brushing—insurance for your smile's future.

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Is it bad if my gums bleed after I brush my teeth?

It's certainly not desirable or healthy to have bleeding gums following brushing. Bleeding gums can be caused by any of the following: improper, rough, 'scrubbing' instead of gentle, circular brushing motions; using a hard-bristled tooth brush instead of a soft one; plaque and/or tartar buildup below the gum line; or gum sensitivity due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. If your problem persists despite correct brushing and flossing methods, or occurs every time you brush, contact our office to set up an evaluation appointment.

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How do I know when it's time to come in for a checkup?

If it's been more than six months, you need to come in for an appointment… an average, healthy adult person typically benefits from a professional cleaning and check up twice a year. While twice daily brushing and daily flossing go a long way towards maintaining a healthy mouth, it's wise to check for plaque that has hardened into tartar, requiring professional cleaning to avoid gum infection.

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My breath has a terrible odor, but I brush every day. Is it just me, or is there something you can do to help?

Millions of people struggle with halitosis, or bad breath, despite daily teeth brushing. Here's a checklist of procedures that can eliminate the problem: twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and tongue cleaning; regular professional cleanings, and careful cleaning of any dentures or removable dental appliances. However, if your hygiene is meticulous and the problem persists, we can offer several solutions. First, we can provide a plastic tool called a tongue scraper that cleans away bacterial buildup on your tongue and significantly alleviates odor. Further, we can recommend a specially prepared in-office rinse treatment designed to inhibit the excess bacterial growth that can cause odors.

Finally, we may also suspect a systemic or internal problem such as an infection or underlying condition, in which case we may recommend a visit with your family physician or specialist to identify the cause.

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4900 Overton Ridge Blvd • Suite 109 Fort Worth, Texas 76132 • 817-292-6090