Q: Is it harmful to have dental x-rays taken?

No. With the current technology available for dental x-ray equipment, the exposure is minimal. In order to further decrease the exposure, filters are placed in the dental units. In addition, a lead apron is used to cover your body. This makes the exposure levels negligible.

 Q: Why is it recommended to visit the dentist twice a year?
            The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least every 6 months for routine cleaning and exams. This is because deposits build up below the gum line that are not accessible by even the best brusher and flosser. Only a professional can remove these deposits adequately, and therefore prevent them from becoming a bigger and more expensive issue later.

 Q: Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?
           Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, or gum disease. If left untreated, this can progress into periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the number 1 cause of tooth loss in the United States. It is caused by plaque, which harbors bacteria, and then hardens into calculus, or tartar, on the teeth. This is one reason why regular dental visits are so important, in order to have the plaque removed adequately.

 Q: Is it possible to keep my teeth for a lifetime?
            Absolutely, yes! With good home care, which leads to good oral hygiene, and routine cleanings at the dentist, it isn’t only possible, it is highly probable that you will keep your teeth for a lifetime. Advancing dental technology, as well as increased access to fluoride has made this a reality.

 Q: I know that I have bad breath. What can I do to prevent it?
            Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, can be the result of several issues. A small number of patients may experience bad breath due to certain stomach conditions. However, the majority of people experience bad breath because of tooth decay, gum disease, and bacteria on the tongue. A complete exam from the dentist will help to identify the source of your particular situation.

 Q: Are drills still the best method used on teeth? What about lasers and sand blasters?
            Dental handpieces, more commonly known as drills, are air turbines that are usedto remove tooth decay in a safe and efficient manner. Thankfully, the technology for these has continued to improve, making them still the favored dental instrument to remove decay. Lasers are becoming more and more advanced, however, their use in removing tooth decay is still not effective. They are used primarily for soft tissue surgery. Sand blasters, otherwise known as air abrasion units, are effective at removing shallow areas of decay only.

Q: When is the option of having a root canal better than just pulling the tooth?
The option of having a root canal is always better than pulling a tooth. Many

complications can occur following the removal of a natural tooth, including shifting and protruding of remaining teeth. Root canal therapy can be a much more comfortable and predictable option. Keeping natural teeth is always a better option than trying to replace them—and also a much less expensive option in the end.

 Q: I haven’t had insurance for several years, and therefore, haven’t seen a dentist. If nothing is hurting, why do I really need a checkup?
            Decay and other dental problems do not cause any symptoms until they are large enough to be a significant problem. If you wait until it is hurting, the situation has grown to a level of requiring costly treatment. Regular checkup appointments prevent these significant problems, which are not only expensive, but also very painful. If decay is detected while it is small in a regular checkup appointment, it is easy and much less expensive to correct.

 Q: I would like to get my teeth bleached. Should I use one of the kits available at the drug store?
            Teeth whitening kits available at the drug store are not as effective as the professional whitening done in the dental office. Drug store whitening products do not have the concentrated strength that professional whitening can offer. Also, results are often not as white as patients desire. Professional whitening in the dental office uses stronger, more powerful ingredients, which gives the result of a whiter smile in as little as 1 hour!

 Q: Can bleaching damage your teeth?
            Professional teeth whitening is safe when properly used under the supervision and advice of a dental professional. It is a very safe and effective way to achieve the brighter smile that you desire.

 Q: I don’t go to the dentist simply because I’m afraid. What can be done for me?
            There are many techniques available to help calm your fears in the dental office. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a very safe and effective way to alleviate any fear and anxiety. We, at the office of Shannon K. Toler, DDS, also strive to give you a comfortable experience. This is done with soft, Memory Foam chairs for you to relax in, as well as televisions in the ceiling complete with a movie library for you to “get lost” in. We have found that after a couple of visits to see us, most patients have their fears alleviated and no longer dread going to the dentist anymore!

 Q: What type of toothpaste should I use?
            The milder the toothpaste, the better. Harsh abrasives are not only unnecessary, but also harmful to the enamel and gum tissue in the mouth.

Q: What kind of toothbrush should I use?

A soft bristle toothbrush is the best choice for a manual toothbrush. A medium or hard bristled toothbrush can be harmful to the gum tissue as well as the enamel. Electric toothbrushes are also highly effective when used properly. Some electric toothbrushes are a better choice for those who like to brush with too much pressure. Someone at the office of Shannon K. Toler, DDS would be happy to explain the differences to you.

Q: What is the difference between the tooth colored fillings and the old silver fillings? Are the tooth colored fillings more expensive?

Tooth colored fillings can be more expensive than the old silver fillings. However, tooth colored fillings require more time and technical skill in order to place them correctly. The materials that make up the tooth colored fillings are also more expensive than the old, mercury filled material. In addition, tooth colored fillings actually bond directly to the tooth and strengthen it, whereas the silver mercury fillings simply fill the hole, and can actually weaken the tooth.

 Q: What can you tell me about implants?
            Dental implants may be an option for you if you are missing any teeth. Dental implants are actually imbedded into the bone to replace the missing root, and then a crown is placed over the implant to replace the missing tooth. You can learn more about dental implants by visiting the American Academy of Implant Dentistry at www.aaid­implant.org.

 Q: My dentist says I have dental problems, but my teeth don’t hurt. Is this possible?
            Yes. Dental problems, while small, can have no symptoms at all. These problems can include decay, abscesses, oral cancer, and periodontal disease. These undetected problems can continue to grow until they cause pain, or they can be detected early at a routine exam by the dentist.

 Q: What are sealants? Why have they been recommended for my child’s teeth?
            A sealant is a clear, thin application of acrylic bonded to the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars. The sealant material is placed in the grooves and pits of the chewing surfaces, to prevent these areas from getting decay. Sealants are generally recommended for all 6 and 12 year molars.

 Q: What is the best way to correct a space between my front teeth?
            Several options are available. Cosmetic dentistry as well as orthodontics would both be viable options for you. Both of these options are available at the office of Shannon K. Toler, DDS.

 Q: What is “cosmetic dentistry”?
            Cosmetic dentistry is an exciting and fun method of dentistry used to close spaces, lengthen teeth, make teeth whiter, as well as make teeth appear straighter. This is the area of “smile design” where we work to give you the best smile possible.

Q: What impact does smoking have on the health of my teeth?

Nicotine decreases oxygen flow to the gums and bone, which support the teeth. This decrease in oxygen is a primary risk factor for developing periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Regular cleanings and exams are the best defense a smoker has against periodontal disease. Also, dental professionals today are very involved in helping patients to stop smoking.