General Dentist Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

General Dentist Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

How do I schedule an appointment?
You can walk-in, call, or e-mail. Our staff is ready to answer any questions that you may have! You can also fill out an appointment request once you hit submit, we will be in contact shortly to schedule your appointment.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept most PPO insurance plans, cash, and credit cards. We also offer payment plans through Care Credit (participating in 6 or 12 month financing only). Our goal is to make quality dental care convenient and affordable for everyone.
What if I can’t keep my appointment?
Ocean Breeze Dental requires that you give 24 hours’ notice prior to changing or cancelling your appointment. There will be a charge of $35 for any missed appointments without prior notification.
Do you have late or weekend appointments?
YES! We are open until 8pm on Wednesdays and 8-5 on select Saturdays. Call and speak with one of our patient care coordinators today to find an appointment time that works for you!
Why does the dentist take x-rays?
X-rays are one of the best diagnostic tools a dentist has to see cavities, bone loss, dental infections, and are also a very important screening tool to aid in detecting oral cancer at an early stage. You should get x-rays every 6 months to 2 years depending on the health of your mouth and teeth.
What is fluoride and why is it important?
Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in many sources such as brewed tea, canned fish, cooked kale and spinach, apples, and skim milk. Fluoride is important to dental health because it helps prevent tooth decay by making the enamel outer portion of the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria in the mouth.
Can I get my teeth cleaned while pregnant?
Yes you can and should get your teeth cleaned throughout your pregnancy as poor oral health has been shown to be directly related to low birth weight. We usually recommend getting any major needed treatment done during your 2nd trimester.
How can I make my teeth whiter?
There are many ways to help whiten your teeth. Regular dental cleanings are a good start. We help remove tartar and any stains that build up over time. You can also reduce your intake of food and drinks that stain your teeth like coffee or red wine. Lastly you can get an in-office bleaching done or choose to have us make you custom bleaching trays for use at home.
What causes dry mouth?
There can be many causes of dry mouth, including: certain syndromes (Sjogren’s syndrome), medications, hormonal changes, or the normal aging process. If dry mouth is affecting your life please speak to your dentist, as you are at a significantly increased risk of getting cavities especially around the roots of your teeth.
How do I help with tooth sensitivity?
One of the best ways to help with cold sensitivity is to use special toothpaste. Sensodyne used to be the only one, but now most brands of toothpaste have a sensitive product including: Crest and Colgate. We also have some professional products at the office that work very well. If all else fails, we can also cover the sensitive areas with resin to eliminate the sensitivity.
Why do I have bad breath?
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in your mouth. The best way to get rid of it is by flossing and brushing daily. If you suffer from periodontal disease you will have to work with your Dentist to control or eliminate the odor producing infection deep down in your gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue because bacteria grow in the little grooves in your tongue.
Why do I have a bad taste in my mouth?
There are a few reasons you may have a bad taste in your mouth, most are typically associated with some type of oral infection. You may have a large cavity in your mouth that has bad smelling bacteria and allows food to get caught in the area. You may also have an infected tooth and the abscess deep in your bone is draining into your mouth causing a bad taste. You may also be suffering with an active periodontal infection and periodontal disease. Whatever the reason please see your dentist for an evaluation and to discuss the ways to remedy the situation
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and bone surrounding your teeth. This infection causes bone loss and is the number one reason for tooth loss in America. If this disease goes untreated you can end up losing your teeth and needing dentures.
Are bad teeth genetic?
Genetics play a role in the way your body responds to a bad bacterial infection. Bacteria cause cavities and periodontal disease. Sometimes the bacteria that you have are a stronger, more hostile strain, or your body is more susceptible to damage from those bacteria than someone else’s. With regular dental visits and continual home care, your family’s history of bad teeth doesn’t have to be yours.
Can’t you just fill my tooth?
Unfortunately sometimes due to the amount of decay, missing tooth structure, or the presence of an active infection inside the tooth, it is not possible to just fill the tooth. Please understand that when the doctor tells you your tooth needs a root canal or crown they have your best interests in mind. We also cannot just place a filling on a tooth with an active infection or abscess as that would be negligence and a disservice to you the patient.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that has to be done when the nerve has died or is in the process of dying. Usually the tooth and/or bone will have an active infection. Your dentist will gain access to the nerve and the infection through the top of your tooth. Then a series of files are used to clean out the nerve and any bacteria remaining in the tooth, followed by medicines that are rinsed through the tooth to help clear the infection. Once the tooth is clean, then a rubber based material is used to fill the inside where the nerve was removed.
Can I get dentures the same day my teeth are removed?
Yes, if this is a concern for you then immediate dentures are a good option. We take an impression of your mouth 1-2 weeks prior to surgery. The day that your teeth are removed, you are sent home with your custom denture. In some cases, after healing is completed an additional denture may be necessary.
Why are my dentures loose?
Dentures can become loose for a number of reasons, many of which are perfectly normal. However, if your dentures do become loose, it is important to address this as soon as possible. The most common reason for dentures becoming loose is a process known as bone resorption. This often occurs when your gums no longer have to hold your teeth in place. Your body tries to reclaim bone mass after your teeth are lost, which causes the bone supporting your teeth that now supports your dentures to shrink down.
Why is it necessary to Re-line my dentures?
During the time you have worn dentures; your mouth has experienced considerable change. Since your dentures cannot change, they no longer fit as they once did.
I just got a tooth extracted, and it is still bleeding. What do I do?
Bite on a moist tea bag or gauze pad using firm pressure. Pressure is what stops bleeding. However, if you continue to bleed significantly after using the tea bag and gauze pads please call your doctor or the ER immediately.