215-809-2324

PLEASE SEE YOUR DENTIST AT THE EARLIEST IF YOU EXPERIENCE

Mouth sores, Jaw pain, Redness, Swollen face or gums, Tooth sensitivity, Broken teeth, Dry mouth, Bleeding gums, Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.

Getting checked out right away prevents more serious problems and infections.

What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?

Buy toothbrushes with soft bristles. Medium and Hard bristles damage teeth and gums causing gum recession and enamel wear-off. Brush in circular motion at 45degree angle twice a day. Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months or if bristles swayed.

Both powered and manual toothbrushes clean teeth well. Manual brushes with mixed bristle heights or angled bristles clean better than those with all flat, even bristles. Powered toothbrushes may be easier if you have trouble using your hands.

Toothpastes with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance always have fluoride, which strengthens and protects teeth. If you experience teeth sensitivity, use toothpastes that target the issue.

Do I really need to floss?

It clears food and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline. If you don't, plaque hardens into calculus, causing gingivitis and bleeding gums.

Waxed and fine floss is a good option. Floss picks or interdental brushes are also a good option.

Does a rinse or mouthwash help?

Mouthwashes for cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath may help when you use them with regular brushing and flossing -- but not instead of daily cleanings. Your dentist can recommend the best type for you.

Kids under 6 shouldn't use mouthwash to avoid the chance of them swallowing it.

Are dental X-rays safe and needed?

Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for their safety. Your dentist should take as few as possible. Sometimes dentists may recommend X-rays to diagnose a special problem. Advancements in technology means today's digital X-rays release much less radiation and are safer than in the past.

Expect to get them during a first exam. This helps check tooth and gum health. If you have gum disease, the dentist may want xrays every 6 months. Kids have more X-rays done than adults because their teeth are changing and because they get cavities more easily.

How do fillings work?

Cavities break through the surface enamel of teeth, and they'll probably get bigger unless you close them off with fillings. Your dentist will numb your mouth before drilling around the cavity to prep it. A combination of strong materials or a white mix called a composite goes into the cavity soft and then hardens as it dries. You may feel pain or pressure when getting the numbing shot and during the drilling. Once set, fillings can last a long time but need replacing if they break or wear down.

What do sealants do?

Sealants protect against cavities that can form in the natural tiny holes and cracks on the outside of teeth. Kids from about 6 to 12 benefit from having sealants painted and hardened onto the chewing surfaces of their back teeth, or molars. Adults can get sealants as well to protect teeth that don't have fillings.

What's the best way to whiten my teeth?

Stores sell many whitening products, and you can get take-home gels and trays from your dentist, but neither is as strong as procedures done in a dental office. If you want to try an over-the-counter whitener, look for one with an ADA seal. Check with your dentist for advice before you buy, especially if you have dental work or dark stains. And don't keep using them, or you could damage your teeth.

How can I fix my teeth and smile?

Caps and crowns cover problem teeth by surrounding them in a material that looks like a real tooth. They use the root and inside of the tooth as a base to build on, then attach with special cement.

Veneers and bonding improve your smile by sticking a layer of smoother and whiter materials like porcelain or resin to the natural tooth. Talk with your dentist about which fix is right for you.

Invisalign /  braces can help with crowding, spacing, occlusion issues

Are sweets and ice really bad for my teeth?

Yes, sweets and foods with acid, like candy and soda, could stick to teeth and lead to cavities. Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause oral cancer and gum disease. While teeth are strong enough to chew ice and tear open packages, this can break them and stress your jaws. Gritting or grinding down on teeth when you're stressed may crack them. Nail biting is another bad habit. It pulls your jaw out of position and changes how your teeth fit together.

How to Manage a Toothache--Home Remedies 

Saltwater Rinse: Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt into 8 ounces of water, swish around your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute, and then spit it out. Saltwater removes debris in between your teeth and soothes inflammation. 

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse: Blend equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and swish. Don't swallow it! A 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide helps reduce bacteria, inflammation, and pain. 

Over-The-Counter (OTC) Painkillers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) reduce pain and inflammation. If you are treating a child, use a formula designed for their age and weight. Avoid giving children aspirin. Tylenol is a good substitute. 

OTC Numbing Treatments: Dental gels and liquids containing benzocaine help numb the gums and teeth, reducing pain. Gently dab on the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. 

Cold Compress: Hold a cold washcloth or ice pack on your cheek to reduce swelling in your mouth or jaw. 

These natural remedies won't stop decay or heal an abscess but may provide temporary relief:

Garlic: Make a paste and apply it to the affected tooth. Garlic can relieve pain and kill bacteria.

Clove Oil: Add a drop or two to a cotton pad and dab it on your tooth. Clove oil is a natural antiseptic that reduces pain and inflammation.

Vanilla Extract: Sprinkle a few drops on a cotton ball and place it on the affected area. The alcohol in vanilla numbs the pain. 

Peppermint Tea: Hold a warm teabag against your tooth to soothe inflammation.