Listed below are common dentistry related questions and answers. We have also included links to some words for further information or definitions.

How often should my child floss and brush their teeth ?
It is recommended to floss and brush after each meal or at least two times per day. This can help prevent tooth decay. Flossing daily is the best way to clean between teeth and under the gum lines and remove food, bacteria and plaque.

My child's gums bleed after they brush. Should I worry about this ?
Bleeding gums may be caused by leaking filings or gum disease. Bleeding gums can cause serious health problems. Your child should see a pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

What causes tooth decay ?
Tooth decay is caused by bacteria which attack three parts of the teeth, the enamel, cement and dentine by converting fructose, glucose and sucrose into acids through a process known as fermentation. It creates a hole in the tooth causing pain and possibly making it bleed.

What is the best way to prevent tooth decay ?  
It is recommended that your child should brush their teeth at least twice daily, floss and use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash because the fluoride ions can protect the teeth from bacterial attack. They should brush your teeth after each meal specifically after breakfast and going to bed at night.

What info does the dentist need about my child's medical history ?
You should list any medications, medical conditions and allergies to specific medicine when filling out your child's medical history form for their dental visit.

When should a child first see a dentist ?
It is recommended that children see their first pediatric dentist or family dentist around the time that they are one year old.

What are wisdom teeth ?
Wisdom teeth are classified as molars. Molars are the chewing teeth found furthest in the back of the mouth. Most humans have first, second, and third molars.

When is a good time to remove my child's wisdom teeth ?
It is generally recommended that wisdom teeth be removed between the ages of 18 and 25, but this is not always the case. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. Your child's dentist can determine this after an examination.

What is a General dentist?
A general dentist provides general maintenance. General dentistry is ideally preventative and involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions, disorders and diseases affecting the teeth, gums and the jaw and face region of the body.

What is a Family dentist?
A family dentist provides general maintenance of tooth health and oral hygiene. Family dentists are responsible for ensuring that plaque buildup around the teeth is kept to a minimum, tooth decay is eliminated and cavities are filled and gums are healthy. A family dentist typically provdes dental care to people of all ages.

What is a Cosmetic dentist?
Cosmetic dentists focus on improving the appearance of a person's teeth, mouth and smile which includes teeth whitening, bonding, dental fillings and dental implants. Creating a perfect smile can increase confidence and self esteem in both a persons business and personal life.

What is a Sedation dentist?
Fear and anxiety over going to the dentist has kept many people from having necessary dental treatment. Due to the advancements in the dental industry, sedation dentistry allows patients to get the dental work that they need while being comfortably and safely sedated. A patient can take a pill an hour before the dental procedure, nitrous oxide or intravenous injection is also available.

What is a Pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist specializes in dentistry for children. They typically service children's dental needs from birth through adolescence.

What is an Implant dentist ?
Implant dentists install dental implants which are substitutes for the roots of missing teeth. They act as an anchor for a replacement tooth or crown or a set of replacement teeth.