Frequently Asked Dentistry Questions
Want to know if it’s time for your next dental visit? Do you have a toothache and don’t know what to do about it? Concerned that your gums are bleeding whenever you clean your teeth? We’re always happy to answer your dental-related questions so you have all the information you need to take great care of your teeth. After going over the questions and answers below, if you have anything else you’d like to ask us, feel free to give us a call anytime.
How often should I go to the dentist?
This answer will be different from patient to patient depending on their particular needs, but for most, we would recommend visiting the dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. This gives our team the opportunity to catch any problems early so we can treat them before they turn into serious headaches.
My gums bleed whenever I brush/floss my teeth. Should I be concerned?
A little oral bleeding is normal if you’ve recently started flossing, but it may also indicate that you’re cleaning your teeth with too much pressure. Try brushing and flossing with a lighter touch for about a week and see if this helps. If not, then you may be experiencing early-stage gum disease, in which case you won’t be able to treat it on your own. Fortunately, you can just give us a call, and we’ll be able to provide the care you need.
I have a toothache. What should I do?
If the pain is minor, try cleaning around the tooth at first. Sometimes, a toothache can be the result of something simply being stuck in between the teeth. If this doesn’t help, or if the pain is sharp or severe, go ahead and give us a call. We’ll be able to get to the root of the problem, stop your pain, and repair the tooth using a custom-made restoration.
Is there a way I can straighten my teeth without metal braces?
Yes, and it’s called Invisalign. A patient just has to wear a series of thin, see-through plastic aligners that slowly shift their teeth into the correct positions, allowing someone to improve their smile and maintain their normal appearance at the same time. Dr. Gersten is a certified Invisalign provider, and she’ll make sure your treatment is as discreet-looking as it is effective. Give us a call to learn more.
How can a dentist help with sleep apnea?
Specially trained dentists like our own Dr. Jason Parli are able to create custom-made mouthpieces that have been proven to stop both snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. They fit over the teeth and slightly reposition the jaw in such a way that the throat can’t become fully or partially blocked throughout the night, allowing a patient (as well as those around them) to sleep uninterrupted.
Is there a way to pay less for my dental care even without insurance?
Yes! You can sign up for our Beach Dental Savings Plan, which will give you many of the same benefits as traditional insurance for just one low annual fee. With it, you can cover your checkups and cleanings for the entire year and receive significant discounts on all other treatments. You can learn more and even sign up here.
Can I finance my dental care?
Yes. Right through our website, you can qualify and sign up for a low-to-no interest payment plan from CareCredit. With them, you can easily break up the cost of your care into whatever way works best for your budget. To look over their different plans, click here.