FAQ Archives - Now Dental

Learning the Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings At Now Dental

by Elizabeth Huynh | May 5, 2023 | Carmichael CA Dental Office, Dental How To

Regular dental cleanings at Now Dental will save you money and improve your overall health!
You’ve heard it before: you need to schedule a checkup with your dentist every six months. But have you ever wondered why this is? Getting regular dental screenings and cleanings is about more than just protecting your teeth (though this is still a big part of it). Preventative dental care can help to protect your whole body against future health problems and limit your chances of needing costly, extensive work in the future. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of getting your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis.

Remove Plaque
Even if you’re the best tooth-brusher in the world, there’s still a chance that some plaque could remain on your teeth. If it’s allowed to stay on your teeth for 24 to 72 hours, plaque can turn into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. Tartar also makes plaque harder to get rid of and acts as a shield to protect bacteria in your mouth. Plaque buildup is the leading cause of tooth decay and, according to Crest, more than half of adults have tartar. Though these two are impossible to avoid, you can treat them easily with regular cleanings at Now Dental, your family friendly dentist in Carmichael, CA.

Avert Gum Disease
When you do not properly take care of your teeth and mouth, gingivitis and periodontal disease become all too common. Gum disease causes space to form between the teeth and the gums. In this area, bacteria flourishes, which can cause the gums to become swollen and tender. They may also bleed after you brush your teeth. Over time, these spaces can also result in painful abscesses. However, with regular dental cleanings, you can avoid gum disease and ensure your gums and teeth remain healthy.

Decrease the Risk for Diabetes
Having high blood sugar can take a toll on your oral health. In general, those with diabetes tend to experience dental problems more often than those without it. People with diabetes have a higher rate of dental infections, more cases of cavities, decay, and gum disease, and their mouth sores require more time to heal fully. When you get regular checkups, your dentist can determine which oral health problems, if any, are related to high blood sugar and recommend treatment, so your diabetes and oral health conditions do not worsen.

Early Detection of Cavities
During the cleaning, your oral health professional will also be on the lookout for signs of cavities, even when they are in their earliest stages. When cavities are caught early enough, they can be treated without the use of a drill. If you do not visit your dentist every six months, you may miss the early warning signs of a cavity. It will only get worse, requiring more invasive treatments, costing more money, and potentially leading to other long-term problems.

Identify Oral Cancer
Your dentist will also be looking out for any abnormalities in your mouth while they are performing the cleaning. These signs include white or red spots in the mouth and wounds that do not heal, which can indicate oral cancer. If your dentist suspects this condition, they can administer tests to be sure. Like any other type of cancer, early detection is key and gives you a better chance for a full recovery. That’s why regular cleanings are so crucial.

Ten Questions to Ask Your Dentist

by Elizabeth Huynh | Jan 17, 2023 | Dental How To

Ten Questions We Encourage Your To Ask Now Dental

Now Dental is just about the friendliest dental practice serving the Carmichael, and the surrounding communities within Sacramento County. Yet we know that people tend to be apprehensive when it comes to all things related to dentistry. Well part of our friendly attitude towards your dental hygiene is our willingness to educate you on how to improve and maintain your teeth! Asking our staff questions is encouraged! Everyone that works at Now Dental can answer a broad range of questions related to dentistry.

1. What can I do to improve my smile?

– Sometimes the answer might be simple, sometimes Now Dental may suggest creating a dental plan with the specific goal of improving your smile!

2. What is the best kind of toothbrush and floss for my teeth and gums?

– Not everyone should be using the same kind of toothbrush or floss. Now Dental can make specific recommendations based on the structure of your teeth and gums.

3. How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?

– This varies depending on oral health, dental appliances, and issues that your dentist or hygienist detect.

4. What kind of products should I use or avoid to keep my teeth whiter?

– Every year there is a new product promising whiter teeth. Your dentist and hygienist can help you pick the right product or regime!

Why do I have dry mouth and how does it affect my teeth?

-Dry mouth can be caused by numerous things. Medications and Cancer treatment being the most common ones. Dry mouth tends to not only be uncomfortable but increases the rate of decay. Over The Counter products can help some. Ask your dental professional for some recommendations and samples.

6. What can I do to prevent cavities?

– Cavities lead to a lot of problems and potential expenses. In many cases, Now Dental can suggest a regime that can help prevent the things most people fear when it comes to dentistry, the drill, pain, and big bills!

7. Can you tell if I am grinding or damaging my teeth, crowns, or fillings?

– Grinding of teeth happens! Sometimes it is a subconscious thing, sometimes it happens while you sleep. Best to be aware because a dentist can design appliances that can help protect your teeth!

8. I see blood when I floss, is there anything I can do to reduce or prevent bleeding gums?

– Bleeding gums can be a sign of many things you don’t want happening in your mouth! Your dentist will likely be advised of bleeding by the hygienist, but be prepared to ask how you can deal with bleeding between dental checkups!

9. What are the insurance, self-pay, financing, and billing of your dental practice?

– Regardless if you have the best dental insurance or paying out of pocket, it is always good to know what to expect when the bill comes!

10. Should I change my diet in any way?

– On top of impacting many aspects of health, one’s diet can directly affect the condition of teeth and oral health!

These are a few questions to the staff at Now Dental at your next dental appointment. Not only will you come away smarter about taking care of your smile, but it will help you build a more informative relationship with your dentist, hygienist, and even the dental practice receptionist! Taking care of your teeth is a cooperative effort! The staff at Now Dental is ready to answer all questions related to your dental hygiene and care!