Thinking about going to the dentist can cause crippling fear for some people. According to the National Library of Medicine, 36% of the population experience dental fear or anxiety, with 12% suffering from extreme fear of the dentist.
Much of the fear people have about the dentist stems from not knowing what to expect. As humans, we naturally fear the unknown. We grow nervous about situations that we can’t control.
Part of our mission as a family dentistry in Kaysville is to eradicate the fear of the dentist for our patients by educating them. After all, knowledge is power. We’ve compiled answers to seven of the most frequently asked dental questions to sprinkle knowledge and kick fear to the curb.
1. What is the Best Way to Prevent Cavities?
Preventing cavities doesn’t require any complex formulas – just a few easy habits can make all the difference. Here’s how to protect your teeth day in and day out:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to keep plaque at bay
- Floss once daily to remove food particles and prevent buildup
- Rinse your mouth after meals to wash away lingering debris
- Avoid sugary or sticky foods, especially before bedtime
- Schedule regular visits to your Utah dentist for cleanings and checkups
By consistently following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities. It’s easier than you think!
2. What Should I Do About My Jaw Clicking?
Are jaw clicks giving you a scare? It’s pretty common to experience jaw clicks or pops. About 50% of the population experiences jaw pain, popping, or clicking when they open their mouths. This may be a sign that a ligament has been stretched and damaged. Sometimes, a jaw click or pop has no damage associated with it at all.
However, it’s best practice to be cautious so you don’t damage or overstretch the ligament to the point of pain. The best thing to do if your jaw is popping? Ask your dentist about it so they can do some investigating. This is not an emergency but something to bring up at your routine dental visits. In some cases, jaw clicks may result from a bite issue.
If there is no pressing problem, the pop or click may be due to trauma to the jaw, such as a chin injury or chronic grinding or clenching.
3. Is Mouthwash Recommended by Dentists?
With so many mouthwash products on the market, it can be challenging to tell which ones deliver results and which are just gimmicks designed to make a quick buck. When it comes to mouthwash, we’re all in favor—but our advice is simple: stick with trusted, reputable brands.
There are plenty of options. While cosmetic mouthwashes are perfect for freshening breath and promoting overall oral health, some go even further. Many contain fluoride, which can help fight cavities and protect teeth.
For more advanced care, prescription-strength mouthwashes are available. For example, mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine gluconate are highly effective at killing bacteria that can lead to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and even bleeding. But remember, you’ll need a recommendation from your dentist to get your hands on these powerful formulas.
4. Does the Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Matter?
Not all toothbrushes are created equal. Toothbrushes with stiff bristles can harm your gums and teeth. Stick to soft bristles that make brushing a comfortable experience. We get questions about toothbrushes and toothpaste all the time. We recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months for best results and storing it in the open where it can sufficiently dry off.
5. How Can I Make My Teeth Whiter?
A bright, healthy smile isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling great, too. Oral health plays a significant role in your overall well-being and confidence. That’s why it’s no surprise that so many people wonder how to get their teeth whiter.
But before diving into teeth-whitening solutions, it’s important to remember that natural tooth color varies from person to person. Not everyone’s smile must be “sparkling white” to be beautiful.
Over time, our teeth naturally lose their original brightness. Stains from coffee, wine, tobacco, and intensely pigmented foods can cause this discoloration. The good news? You can tackle surface stains at your next dentist appointment with a whitening treatment.
6. Why Am I Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity?
If it’s painful to consume cold or hot drinks, then you are likely experiencing tooth sensitivity. This occurs when the enamel that protects your teeth becomes weaker, leaving the underlying pulp and dentin more vulnerable to acids and extreme temperatures.
In addition to enamel erosion, other factors like gum recession, teeth grinding, braces, and even fillings can contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, it’s worth bringing it up to your dentist.
7. What Causes Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the damage caused by acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. Food particles or sugar linger on your teeth, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria feed on the food, fermenting it and releasing acids that slowly dissolve the minerals in your tooth enamel. Over time, this process leads to the demineralization of your teeth, creating the black spots or holes often seen on the surface of a decayed tooth.
Beat Your Fear with Education
Dentistry is essential for overall health and wellness, and the more you know, the more you can prevent cavities, tooth decay, and other oral health concerns. As a family dentist in Utah, we’re passionate about educating our patients, so if you have additional dental-related questions, feel free to ask!