Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the last time you visited the dental office, a dental cleaning can take as little as 20-30 minutes. However, if it has been a long time since you saw a dentist, increasing the chances of plaque and buildup, your dental cleaning in Delaware, OH, could take up to an hour.

You do not have to wait to eat after a dental cleaning or teeth whitening. However, if you have just finished whitening your teeth, wait 48 hours to consume dark liquids or sauces that may stain. After a cleaning, your teeth are brushed, flossed, and polished by a detailed professional. Some patients may want to enjoy their clean, white smile for a few hours before eating, but waiting a specific amount of time is not required.

It is recommended that you whiten your teeth every 6 months. Over time, stains from soda, coffee, sauces, and food dyes can start showing up on your white teeth. When you maintain a regular teeth whitening schedule, you will not have to worry about your teeth becoming yellowed or dull in color over time.

Some people experience sensitivity after teeth whitening. You can prepare for sensitivity by brushing with desensitizing toothpaste before and after the whitening treatment. Know that the sensitivity is only temporary. The whitening gel makes the teeth more permeable for a short period of time. If you experience excess pain during or after teeth whitening, ask your dentist for an alternative treatment plan.

A cosmetic dentist in Delaware, OH, is not only for dental emergencies. Visiting the dentist every 6 months is highly recommended to prevent cavities, chipped teeth, dental crowns, and gum disease. If you have to go to the dentist because of a chipped tooth, you likely need a crown, a much more extensive treatment than twice-yearly dental cleanings.

Brush and floss twice daily in order to avoid cavities. Eating foods that are sticky and filled with sugar will stay on the teeth and cause decay. If you are out and about without a toothbrush, rinse with water after drinking soda or eating candy.

It is recommended that you use a new toothbrush and retire your old one after three or four months. After continual use, the bristles on a toothbrush start to fray and are no longer as effective. Using a new toothbrush will give your teeth the cleaning power they need to prevent decay.

Gum disease is caused by plaque and bacteria buildup around the gums. This can be due to a lack of brushing, the use of certain medications, or genetics. Early signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, and tooth sensitivity. Progressive symptoms show up in the loss of teeth, receding gum lines, and abscessed teeth. 

Modern technology has come a long way, ensuring the safety of x-rays in moderation. X-rays now require much less radiation than they once did. Your dentist should order an x-ray once per year, increasing the frequency only if pain or gum disease is present. The x-rays are safe and helpful in identifying cavities and deep decay.

The American Dental Association recommends that children brush with fluoride toothpaste, being careful not to swallow it. Also, adults should use fluoride to strengthen their tooth enamel. Fluoride treatments provided in the office are highly beneficial to keeping your teeth strong and preventing cavities. 

Do you have more questions that were not answered on this page? Call our office today to speak to a trusted team member. We can walk you through any concerns you might have and schedule your first consultation. If you have a dental emergency, we always leave room in the schedule for same-day appointments.