Common Questions

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Do I really need to floss my teeth?

At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

Are fluoride treatments effective for adults?

How often should I get my teeth cleaned by a dental health professional?

What is gum disease?

How can I prevent gum disease?

How often should I change my toothbrush?

Most dental professionals recommend that toothbrushes be replaced every three months or more frequently if you are an extremely vigorous brusher. Ideally, you should brush gently (so you do not injure the gum tissue) and carefully, not vigorously. Toothbrushes should also be replaced after you or family members have had a cold, flu, or other upper respiratory infection. DO NOT share toothbrushes with other family members.

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Do I really need to floss my teeth?

Yes! Flossing removes food particles between teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Brushing alone reaches only three out of five tooth surfaces. Also, the surfaces tooth brushing can't reach are areas where gum disease can most easily get started in your mouth. For healthy teeth and gums, floss every day. If you have large spaces between your teeth, an interdental brush may also be helpful.

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At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

Generally speaking, when a child has all of his or her primary teeth in place, it is a good time to have his or her first oral exam. The first cleaning and check-up appointment can follow a few months later, depending on the child's maturity and readiness to accept the treatment. The goal is to have your child's first dental experience be a positive one. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that a child have his or her first oral health care appointment around age one. The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) suggests an oral health visit as soon as a baby's first tooth erupts.

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Are fluoride treatments effective for adults?

Yes. Topical application of fluoride increases the level of fluoride on the outermost surface of the tooth, regardless of the age of the tooth. While most people tend to think of children as being more prone to cavities, adults still get decay. Women are keeping their own natural teeth longer, and root decay is a condition that is more likely to occur as we age. The key is multiple applications of fluoride with fluoridated toothpaste, possibly a home fluoride rinse or gel and in-office treatments. Your dentist or dental hygienist can prescribe the best home care and in-office treatment options based on your individual oral health care needs.

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How often should I get my teeth cleaned by a dental health professional?

Each person has individual, varied needs. The interval of six months for "cleaning and check-up" is a commonly recommended time frame, which may or may not be appropriate for you. For example, during pregnancy, hormonal changes, the lack of good daily mouth care, presence of mouth problems and dietary habits make your mouth more susceptible to tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal bone loss. Women who are pregnant may need to see their dentist and dental hygienist more often than every six months. If you have concerns about the frequency of your maintenance "recall" appointments you should discuss them with your dentist and dental hygienist. Together you can reach a maintenance "recall" schedule that is appropriate for your oral condition and that fits your busy schedule.

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What is gum disease?

A Gum disease, a bacterial infection of tissues that support our teeth, affects three out of four adults over the age of 35. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, especially older Americans. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost three of every ten adults over age 65 have lost all of their teeth because of cavities and gum disease. The main cause of gum disease is bacteria, which is found in plaque. Plaque is a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth and tongue. Daily brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and other forms of interdental cleaning remove plaque.

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How can I prevent gum disease?

Preventing gum disease is really quite simple, and takes only minutes each day. Follow this easy seven-step plan to prevent gum disease:

• Brush and floss once every day. The American Dental Association (ADA) advocates brushing twice each day. Although there is research indicating that brushing once a day is sufficient to disrupt the formation of plaque that feeds the bacteria that cause decay, this may not be enough for some people, depending on factors such as their diets and the efficacy of their brushing technique. The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) recommends that you discuss this with your dentist or dental hygienist who understands your individual oral health needs and will be able to make a recommendation appropriate for you.
• Purchase oral care products that are safe and effective (and may carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance).
• Choose a variety of foods from the basic food groups, and make sure you get enough calcium in your diet.
• Limit sweet snacks. If you do snack, choose nutritious foods, such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt or a piece of fruit.
• Instead of drinking soda, drink water.
• Stop smoking and other forms of tobacco use.