Frequently Asked Questions

Dental health varies from person to person, but the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends patients to visit the dentist twice a year. To ensure that any potential problems are identified early. But some people with special conditions may need to see their dentist more often. Schedule an appointment to find out what’s best for you.

The American Dental Association recommends that you place your tooth brush approximately every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Most Children begin losing their baby teeth between the ages of six and eight, and they typically fall out in roughly the same order in which they erupted.

Dental x-rays are important to see signs of dental disease or other dental problems       that cannot be seen with the naked eye.  The good news is that they present few risks.    The main health risk is from the exposure to radiation.
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The level of radiation exposure from dental x-rays has always been low. Today, the use of new technologies reduces that exposure even more. At Campbell dental we use Digital x-rays and high-speed x-ray film, they use very small amounts of radiation.
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In addition, we use a lead-lined apron to protect your chest and stomach, and a collar around the neck to protect the thyroid

Oral cancer most frequently appears on the floor of the mouth or on the tongue. Cancer of the gum tissue is much less common.

Symptoms include:

• Red and/or white area or a sore that does not heal
• Swelling of the jaw
• Stiffness of the jaw or neck
• A lump or thickening on the neck, lips, gums or in the mouth
• Unexplained loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit properly
• change in the voice or hoarseness
• A feeling that something is caught in the mouth or throat

Risk Factors:

• Tobacco and alcohol use significantly increases your risk
• Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
• Ultraviolet light exposure from the sun or tanning beds (increases the risk of lip cancer)
• Poor nutrition caused by a diet deficient in fruits and vegetables
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• A history of cancer of the mouth, head and neck

Early detection of oral cancer is essential for successful treatment. it’s critical to see your dentist regularly, so your dentist can complete a oral cancer screening.

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that affects at least 40 million adults in the united states, according to the academy of general dentistry.
Patients with tooth sensitivity feel pain when they consume items that are hot or cold, sweet or acidic.

This comes from the enamel is worn down and the dentin becomes exposed.
In some patients, this may be a result of:

• Receding gums, this often happens from periodontal disease.
• Tooth grinding or clenching
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Plaque build up
• Acidic foods
• Dental procedures, teeth may be sensitive after professional cleaning, root planning, crown replacement and other tooth restoration procedures. Usually the pain will disappear in four to six weeks

Schedule an appointment if you have sensitive teeth, to find out what is the best treatment for you.

As many as 40 million Americans avoid the dentist because of fear and anxiety, according to Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
Tips for staying calm when you visit the dentist

If you’re nervous about an upcoming dental visit, try these ways to curb your anxiety:

• Share your fears. If you're tense or anxious, tell your dentist and the dental staff. Expressing your concerns will help your dentist adapt the treatment to your needs.
• Focus on breathing regularly and slowly during dental procedures. When people are nervous they tend to hold their breath, which decreases oxygen levels and further increases feelings of panic. As in some meditation techniques, a focus on slow, regular breathing helps reduce stress levels.
• Listen to some tunes. If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring along your favorite music and earphones. We provide earphones at our office.
• Avoid caffeine before a dental appointment. Eat high-protein foods which – unlike sugary foods – produce a calming effect.
• Use hand signals. Empower yourself by agreeing on hand signals to communicate with your dentist. When you feel uncomfortable, signal the dentist to ease off or stop the procedure.
• Dental procedures, teeth may be sensitive after professional cleaning, root planning, crown replacement and other tooth restoration procedures. Usually the pain will disappear in four to six weeks
• Choose a low-stress appointment time. Select a time for your dental visit when you’re less likely to be rushed or under pressure. This might mean a Saturday or an early-morning appointment.
• Nitrous oxide ( laughing gas)

Speak with your dentist about your concerns with anxiety. He will answer your questions and discuss your options.

If you're nervous about dental work and consider using it, It is important to tell your dentist. Especially if you are having invasive procedures that involve either IV sedation of drugs or local anesthetic.

Marijuana smoking, like cigarette smoking, over time, does lead to more dry mouth which can lead to more dental cavities, more gum disease and staining of teeth.