1. Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?

Nearly all infants suck their thumb. However, thumb sucking must stop by the time your child is two years of age. However, some children may take a longer time to outgrow this habit. Thumb sucking must be discouraged once your child reaches four years of age, since prolonged thumb sucking leads to crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems.

2. What is a bridge?

A bridge is a false or replacement tooth held in place by attaching it to crowns on either side of the missing tooth. When teeth are missing, the remaining teeth often drift out of position. This applies stress on adjacent tissues and teeth. A bridge is a boon to modern dentistry as it can help replace one, two and sometimes three missing teeth.

3. What is root canal treatment and how long does the treatment last?

Root canal treatment is used to treat teeth whose dental core or dental pulp has been infected. Initially such teeth had to be extracted. However, now with modern dentistry, it has become possible to save teeth whose pulp is infected. A typical root canal treatment involves anywhere between one to three sessions.

4. What is Plaque?

Plaque is the accumulation of bacteria, microorganisms and their products which sticks to the tooth surfaces. Plaque also produces substances that irritate the gums, making them red, tender or bleed easily. Dental plaque can be easily removed by proper brushing as well as flossing. If not removed, plaque can lead to gum disease (gingivitis), as well as tooth decay.

5. What is tooth whitening?

Over the years, teeth tend to develop a dull appearance and lose their sheen. Teeth can be whitened by the several new techniques of "bleaching" available today. The most effective method to whiten teeth is the "in-office" method which is carried out by a professional dentist. In this method, a bleaching agent is placed over the teeth, and a special light is used to work on the bleaching material to lighten the teeth.

6. Who benefits from tooth whitening?

Almost everyone with healthy teeth can benefit with tooth whitening treatments. Tooth whitening treatments can restore your smile, by giving your teeth a bright look. There are hardly any known downsides to whitening. As long as you do not have any fillings or crowns on the front teeth, you can immensely benefit from tooth whitening treatments.

7. Is there any discomfort during the whitening process?

Some people may experience a slight sensitivity to heat, cold, or pressure during the whitening process. However, this is a temporary and should end in a day or two after the treatment is over. Any persistent discomfort should be brought to the notice of your dentist.

8. Why do my gums bleed when I brush and floss?

Bleeding during flossing is a common phenomenon as almost everyone, has at one time or the other, experienced slight bleeding during flossing. However, bleeding every time you floss indicates that you may be suffering from gingivitis (inflamed, irritated gums) or periodontal disease (deterioration of the supporting gum and bone structure around your teeth). Some of the early indications of periodontal disease include tender, swollen and sensitive gums that bleed when you brush or floss. If you observe any of these signs, you should consult a dentist.

Tips for daily oral care

Maintaining good oral health is vital to your overall wellness. While most people are aware about the basics such as brushing two times a day (ideally after every meal), and restricting your sugar intake. But what dentists consider to vital to good oral care is - flossing.

Flossing is the only way to ensure that you minimize the buildup of plaque between your teeth. While it’s simple to do, it reaps rich dividends in the long run.

Following are a few other often-overlooked basics of sound oral care:

• Avoid smoking. Besides staining teeth, long term use of tobacco can lead to oral as well as other types of cancer.
• Eat a balanced diet. A balanced diet plays an important role in determining your overall oral health, as it does on the rest of your body. It is suggested that you minimize the intake of sugary foods, thus reducing the amount of acid produced. Select snacks that are less prone to cause cavities such as raw vegetables, fresh fruit, and plain yogurt.
• Regular Checkups. It is recommended that you see your dentist at least every six months. Nobody is better qualified to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy than a dental professional. Regular visits will ensure you have the benefits of preventive care and early diagnosis. Our dentists also provide you with tips on how to care for your teeth at home to avoid future problems.
• Good Plaque Control. Maintaining a strict and regular home care regimen can help in minimizing plaque growth.
• Replace your toothbrush. It is important that you remember to replace your tooth brush every three months. Do not chew on your brush. Even if your toothbrush is less than three months old, but if the bristles have worn out or look shredded, it is time for a new toothbrush. Using worn out bristles can hurt your gums, and may even cause them to bleed.