Are you a new or current patient of Clarkston Dental Care? Do you have questions about treatment or oral health in general? On this page, we answer FAQs for patients, whether they’re current patients or new to our Clarkston, MI office. Keeping yourself educated about your own oral health can decrease the likelihood of severe dental problems down the road.
Dental FAQs in Clarkston, MI
Learn more about your oral health with answers to these popular questions:
Do I need to floss?
Many patients may think that flossing isn’t that important and often skip this step of their oral hygiene routine. However, flossing daily helps prevent gum inflammation which can lead to gum disease over time. Flossing removes food particles from between teeth. We recommend that patients floss before brushing for a deeper clean.
How long should I brush each day?
The ADA recommends the 2/2 rule. You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Make sure you brush gently, as aggressive brushing can wear down the enamel and lead to gum recession.
Why is plaque harmful?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can coat the mouth if patients do not brush and floss regularly. Over time, plaque can build up and harden to form tartar, also known as calculus.
It can be difficult to remove tartar without professional dental tools, which is why we recommend regular dental cleanings. Harmful bacteria within plaque irritate the gums and can enter teeth, compromising the tooth’s structure and health.
Should I visit the dentist if I’m pregnant?
We recommend that pregnant patients continue to visit for routine cleanings. The majority of dental treatments are safe for pregnant women. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups also help prevent common dental problems like gingivitis and periodontitis in pregnant women.
How can I keep my teeth white?
Avoid tobacco products and staining foods and beverages to keep your teeth white. Brushing and flossing can remove some superficial stains from coffee, tea, berries, and other products. Visit the dentist regularly for cleaning to keep your teeth bright. We can also recommend in-office and take-home teeth whitening treatment with Opalescence.
Call Our Dental Office
Do you have any more questions for our office? Contact us at 248-985-2906. You can also request a dental consultation with our dentists online.