Yes. X-rays are the only way that we have to evaluate the condition of the roots, the bone around the teeth, and the areas in between the teeth where the teeth touch.  We also use a new technology that reduces the amount of radiation that each film requires by up to 90%. This technology is called "computer generated x-rays" or "digital radiography."

Floss is the only tool that gets to the area between the teeth where the teeth touch. Floss is also the only tool that is able to reach the gums between the teeth. Flossing helps to remove food and debris that your toothbrush can’t reach. Floss disturbs the bacteria in the gum pockets around your teeth which helps prevent gum disease.

Different periodontal conditions require different intervals between cleanings. Healthy teeth or teeth with mild gingivitis usually require cleanings only every 6 months. The more gum pockets you have the more places you have for bacteria to hide under your gums and the harder it is for you to maintain healthy gums. It is not unusual for us to recommend a 3 or 4 month interval between cleanings in order to prevent further periodontal damage.

People with certain conditions may be at increased risk of tooth decay and would therefore benefit from additional fluoride treatment. They include people with: Dry mouth, gum disease, a history of frequent cavities, existing fillings, crowns and/or bridges, or braces.

Bad breath is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in the mouth when you don't brush and floss regularly.

Certain foods, especially ones like garlic and onions that contain pungent oils, can contribute to bad breath because the oils are carried to your lungs and out through your mouth.

Smoking is also a major cause of bad breath. It is also known that people who smoke are at greater risk for having problems with periodontal disease ("gum disease") than people who do not smoke.

A dry mouth can be a source of bad breath. Saliva is a very special form of mouth moisture. Some people have chronically dry mouths. This can be a side effect of the medication a person is taking.

Periodontal disease, often just called "gum disease," can be the source of a person's breath problems. Ask any dentist, the odor coming from the mouth of a person with active gum disease can be so distinctive that a dentist will often correctly anticipate the presence of gum problems even before they begin their examination of a patient.

It has been estimated that 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease, which has been linked to serious health complications and causes various dental problems that are often avoidable. Recent studies suggest gum disease may contribute to or be warning signs of potentially life threatening conditions such as; Heart Disease, Stroke, Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease, and Premature Births.

No, extended bleaching will not damage the health of your teeth or gums. The only thing you have to be careful of is gum or tooth irritation. If the gums get irritated or the teeth get sensitive, you should back off in frequency, but you can still keep bleaching-just not as often.

Each year in the US alone, approximately 34,000 individuals are newly diagnosed with oral cancer.  The death rate from oral cancer is very high; about half of those diagnosed will not survive move than five years. Even if you are not a smoker, you could be at risk. (See our section on oral cancer screening for more information.)

Communication is the key. You must feel comfortable expressing your fears and concerns to your dentist and staff. Some fears have easy solutions. For example, if the sound of the drill causes anxiety, bring an IPod to you next visit. Most offices have these available for patients with such fears. You will be amazed at the wealth of treatment options that you might not have thought were possible. For those with severe anxiety, you may be interested in Sedation Dentistry.