Frequently Asked Dentistry Questions
If you have any dental-related questions, you’ll always find answers here at Oceanside Family Dental. Rather than looking up something online, we can provide information specifically about your situation so you can know the best ways to take care of you and your family’s smiles. Below, we’ve answered some of our most popular FAQs already, but if there is anything else you’re curious about, feel free to call us any time!
When should I start bringing my child to the dentist?
We typically recommend that a child should start attending regular checkups and cleanings around age two or three. However, you should schedule their very first visit as soon as their first tooth appears. This appointment will just consist of a gentle exam to ensure your child’s teeth and mouth are developing correctly.
I have a toothache. What should I do?
Start by cleaning around the tooth by rinsing and flossing. This may dislodge food debris that is stuck and causing the problem. If this doesn’t help, then you might have an infection or crack in the enamel, in which case you should call us right away. We can handle both of these issues pretty easily in our dental office, and waiting will only allow the pain to get worse!
My gums bleed every time I brush/floss. Should I be worried?
Try cleaning your teeth with a lighter touch for a few days and see if this helps. If the bleeding persists, then you may have early-stage gum disease, a bacterial infection that can ultimately lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Thankfully, we can provide the services you need here at Oceanside Family Dental to protect your present and future oral health, so be sure to give us a call if you experience bleeding gums on a regular basis.
What is the best way to replace my missing teeth?
The answer to this question will always vary from patient to patient depending on their situation, but in most cases, Dr. Neelima Ravi, DMD, FAGD would first recommend dental implants. Compared to every other replacement, they simply offer the most natural-looking, secure, and durable option. Plus, you can have the entire procedure completed right here at Oceanside Family Dental. To learn more about implants and other possible tooth replacements, give us a call today.
How long will it take to fix my broken/decayed tooth?
It really depends on the extent of the damage. For minor trauma or a small cavity, we can probably repair it with a tooth-colored filling in a single visit. If the problem is more extensive, we might choose to place a dental crown, which only takes one appointment at our dental office thanks to PlanScan technology. Unlike other dental offices that require multiple visits, we can give you a high-quality crown in as little as an hour.
Do I have to get metal braces to straighten my teeth?
Not anymore! With Invisalign, you can correct your crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth using a discreet treatment no one will notice you’re using. Clear plastic trays shift the teeth without interfering with a patient's day-to-day appearance, allowing someone to speak and smile with confidence the entire time. Would you be a good candidate for Invisalign? We can let you know at an in-person consultation.
Will you take my dental insurance?
Yes! We are in-network with Northeast Delta Dental Premier, but we’re able to accept plans from a wide variety of other providers as well. To learn how we can use your specific policy to help you save, contact us today.