When you visit a dentist in Livermore, you can be sure that your oral health will be improved and that we will answer any questions that you have regarding it. We take the time to get to know our patients and answer any questions that they have to ensure that their oral health is as good as it possibly can be. In addition to going over how to brush your teeth properly and the importance of a healthy diet, we are also asked questions about other health concerns on a regular basis. With that in mind, here is what you need to know.
How do I know if I have dry mouth?
This is a question that a lot of our elderly patients ask. You should first consider if anything has changed like you taking a new medication. If everything is normal, you should increase your water intake in order to keep your mouth moist. Dry mouth means that your body is not producing enough saliva which will increase the risk of you getting cavities or gum disease. Drinking more water will counter this.
Why does my tooth hurt? I need a dentist in Livermore to treat it.
If you have a toothache, it could be caused by a common cavity or an infection in your dental pulp (center of the tooth). If you have a cavity, we can remove the tooth decay and use a filling to restore the missing tooth structure. However, if your dental pulp is infected, we will need to perform a root canal in order to remove the infected area. We may place a dental crown around your tooth afterwards in order to further protect it. Before you call, however, you may want to brush and floss to be sure that nothing is stuck in between your teeth.
Why do I have rough patches in my mouth?
If you have a rough patch from time to time, it could be due to eating something that is high in sugar or very acidic. If the rough patch remains, it could be a sign of oral cancer. If you also have strange red or white bumps, this is cause for concern, and we would like to see you for a dental exam for as soon as possible. As a dentist in Livermore, we can examine your mouth and either put your mind at ease or refer you to an oncologist for further testing.
How long is my filling supposed to last?
Your filling may last a lifetime, but that really depends on your tooth and your overall health. The type of filling that you have, ceramic or amalgam, also makes a difference. Typically, an amalgam filling will last longer than a ceramic one. However, in both cases if you experience additional tooth decay your filling will become loose because the surface area it is supposed to cover will have expanded. This is one of the most common reasons that a filling needs to be placed, and practicing good oral hygiene can help to prevent this. As a dentist in Livermore, we can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent the need for this.
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