Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Santa Maria, CA

Ask Your Santa Maria Dentist

One of the most effective ways to calm a nervous patient’s mind is to answer their questions, which is why we always take the time to respond to anything people ask us. You’ll find some frequently asked questions along with our answers below, and be sure to give us a call if there is anything else you’d like to know!

How often should I go to the dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends that everyone should visit the dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. This is often enough that most minor problems can be caught and treated early so they don’t create bigger issues down the road.

Which is better: an electric or manual toothbrush?

Both types of toothbrushes are great! Each can effectively remove cavity-causing plaque from the teeth, so it really comes down to personal preference. We typically recommend electric brushes for young children and people with mobility issues because they can make cleaning the harder to reach parts of the mouth easier.

Are bleeding gums a big deal?

If your gums bleed every time you brush and floss, then you should be slightly concerned. If you’ve just started flossing regularly, this is to be expected and should stop after a few days. Otherwise, try cleaning your teeth more gently, as you may be using too much force. If the bleeding continues despite doing this for a week, then you may have a minor infection, in which case you should schedule an appointment soon.

Is flossing really that important?

Yes! Despite the news from a few years ago, flossing should be an essential part of everyone’s at-home oral hygiene routine. It’s able to clean the areas between the teeth that a brush can’t reach, which lowers someone’s risk for cavities while also helping their breath smell better.

Why does the dentist take X-rays?

X-Rays allow your dentist to look for oral health issues that may be difficult to identify with a visual examination alone. Your dentist may recommend a full-set of X-rays to establish a baseline for your oral health, identify potential problems such as cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth, or prepare for a larger dental treatment.

I don’t have dental insurance. How else can I save on my care?

We recommend signing up for our In-House Dental Membership Plan. It costs less than insurance, offers many of the same savings, and requires less red tape compared to traditional plans. You can learn more about the benefits by calling us today.