Dental Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It is recommended that adults should visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Children may need to visit more frequently, as recommended by their dentist.

A general dentist is a general practitioner who provides a wide range of dental services, including check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. A specialist, on the other hand, has completed additional training in a specific area of dentistry, such as orthodontics or oral surgery. At Paisley Dental, our general practitioner is Dr. Thamara Marchiani.

If you have a toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible.  Call us to schedule your Dental Emergency at (519) 824-29665.

In the meantime, you may want to consider taking over-the-counter pain medication and apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling.

The best way to prevent cavities is to maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Limiting your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks can also help to prevent cavities.

A filling is used to repair a tooth damaged by decay. A crown, on the other hand, is used to cover and protect a tooth that is too damaged to be repaired with a filling.

Some sensitivity is normal after getting a filling or a crown, but it should typically resolve within a few days. If the sensitivity persists or becomes severe, please call us at (519) 824-3238 and schedule a consultation with our Dentist.

If you have a knocked-out tooth, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to handle the tooth by the crown, not the root, and gently rinse it off with water. If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket or keep it in a cup of milk or saliva to preserve it until you can see a dentist.

The signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and persistent bad breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

A dental cleaning is a routine cleaning that is performed to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more thorough cleaning that is performed to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line.

The options for replacing missing teeth include dental bridges, dental implants, and dentures. Your dentist can help you determine which option is best for your individual needs and circumstances.

Whitening toothpaste proves highly adept at eliminating surface stains on teeth, particularly those caused by substances like soda, coffee, or cigarettes. While it excels in enhancing the overall appearance of teeth, it's crucial to note that the natural color of teeth remains unaffected by its use. Individuals grappling with conspicuous stains will likely witness significant improvements through the consistent application of high-quality whitening toothpaste.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advocate for children to initiate dental visits as soon as their first teeth emerge, and no later than the age of 1. Similar to consultations with pediatricians, these dental visits primarily involve discussions, constituting 80% of the appointment, with the remaining 20% dedicated to the physical examination of the child.

Concerns about enamel damage need not arise when considering teeth whitening, as the process is generally safe and poses no risk of harm. Teeth whitening products incorporate active ingredients that, when used correctly, are considered safe. Opting for teeth whitening kits with clear instructions is a secure choice for at-home use, though professional teeth whitening administered by a dentist proves to be a more efficacious option. Additionally, whitening toothpastes and gels are safe alternatives for preserving enamel and can be used in tandem with professional whitening treatments.

Prior to using any teeth whitening product, it is imperative to consult with your dentist to ensure safety and proper usage. Dentists can assess your dental condition and recommend the most suitable whitening product or treatment for you. It's essential to bear in mind that teeth whitening is not only safe but also an effective means of brightening your smile and boosting your confidence.

Given that enamel constitutes the outermost and most robust layer of the tooth, patients typically do not experience pain in the initial stages of tooth decay. It is only when individuals begin to exhibit sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli and/or experience pain that it becomes evident the decay has progressed to a more advanced stage, penetrating deeper layers of the tooth.