Many of the most common dental problems are relatively easy to treat with basic dental care. Regular brushing and professional cleaning are important ways to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Tooth decay is 100% preventable, though it is a very common dental problem. Limiting sugar intake, especially avoiding soda, can help prevent the onset of tooth decay. Daily brushing and regularly scheduled cleanings are also important preventative measures.
Also known as periodontitis, gum disease affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can be avoided by routine brushing and flossing.
Your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Hot and cold food and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down. Gums may recede, or teeth may develop microscopic cracks, exposing the interior of the tooth and irritating nerve endings. Just breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely sensitive teeth.
Tooth enamel wears down over time, and teeth can develop tiny cracks because of general wear and tear. When this happens, nerves inside teeth are susceptible to the extreme temperatures of hot and cold foods and beverages. To treat tooth sensitivity, a dentist may recommend fluoride treatments, desensitizing toothpaste, or another treatment to seal exposed root surfaces.
There are many methods used to correct the alignment of teeth and improve the appearance of a smile. Orthodontics are recommended for patients with a severe alignment issue, especially if the misalignment affects the patient’s ability to bite and chew. Lumineers placed over the teeth can improve the appearance of teeth that are crooked or worn down.
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) can develop because of allergic reactions, vitamin deficiencies, bacteria build-up, and hormones. A dentist may recommend a mouth rinse or an oral medication to speed up the healing process and prevent future outbreaks.
Daily brushing and flossing help to prevent the build-up of food particles, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth. Food particles left in the mouth deteriorate and cause bad breath. While certain foods, such as garlic or anchovies, may create temporary bad breath, consistent bad breath may be a sign of gum disease or another dental problem.
Regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use are the most important steps to preventing dental problems. During routine professional cleanings, a dentist can also check for any problems that may be developing. Schedule an appointment when you have a dental issue that needs to be addressed, and our staff can provide dental advice. For patients experiencing severe toothaches and other dental emergencies, the team at Westfield Smiles can be available on short notice.
When it is time to make an informed decision about oral health care, you need straightforward dental facts. Westfield, New Jersey residents can gain access to the information they need when visiting Westfield Smiles Dental Health and Wellness Center. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we field at our office. If your question is not answered here, feel free to contact us with your inquiry.
The American Dental Association recommends patients visit a dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings. Our office offers the same recommendation, though some patients seek preventative care as often as every 3-4 months.
Contact our office as soon as you have a need for emergency care. We are more than willing to work you into our schedule. For assistance after hours, please call our facility for the doctor’s emergency contact information.
We seek to ensure your visit is as pleasant and pain-free as possible. Please share any concerns you have about comfort. We can make special accommodations when necessary.
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry dedicated to treating dental pulp and gum tissues. Endodontic therapy can save a tooth and prevent further infection and pain.
Our office accepts most insurance policies and all major credit cards. We also offer patients financing opportunities through CareCredit and DentalBanc. Contact our office with more detailed billing questions.
We offer several whitening treatments, including Bright Smile bleaching and mouthguards that are worn overnight. Before you purchase an over-the-counter bleaching product, it is important to be knowledgeable about up-to-date dental facts. Westfield, New Jersey area patients should contact a dentist before using any product.