Ask Our Dentist in El Paso, TX
At Patriot Family Dental, we frequently get asked certain dental questions repeatedly. So in an effort to answer them preemptively, we are writing this blog post. There are many concerns regarding dental treatments and hygiene. We understand your concerns and are here to answer any and all of your questions. Our knowledgeable staff are friendly and care about providing you with the best dental care in El Paso.
1. What are my options to repair a cracked or broken tooth?
A cracked or broken tooth usually happens with severe dental trauma or tooth decay. The pain can sometimes be overwhelming, but thankfully there are many options that our dentist and staff can offer for repairing or replacing the tooth. The following is a list of dental treatment options that are available to you at our dental office in Northeast El Paso.
- Crowns – Most dentist will agree that a crown is usually the safest and most effective way to repair a cracked or broken tooth. The broken tooth will be reduced to a shape where a porcelain or ceramic crown will be firmly placed on top.
- Veneers – Dental veneers are a popular option for cosmetic and restorative treatment. They are thinner than crowns and replace the front part of the tooth. They are a viable option for those teeth that are less damaged.
- Root Canals – If the pulp of the tooth is infected because of a crack or break, a root canal will be necessary to prevent an abscess in the jaw. The infected pulp will be removed from the tooth and root, and then a crown will be placed on top of the repaired tooth.
- Dental Implants – If the tooth proves to be damaged beyond repair, a dental implant will be suggested for treatment. A dental implant is an extensive process that starts with removing the tooth and root. A titanium dental implant is then placed into the jaw bone where the root once was. After the implant has properly bonded to the bone, a crown is then placed on top of the implant at the gum line. Dental implants look and feel like regular teeth and have a 97% success rate.
2. How often should I see the dentist?
This is one of the dental question that we get asked most often. Most dentists will recommend that you schedule a visit every 6 months. But each individual patient has their own dental situation and the dentist will usually let you know if you need to come into the office more often and what dental treatments you will need to receive.
3. How can I improve the whiteness of my teeth?
Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing should be the first place to start with whitening your teeth. Scheduling an exam and teeth cleaning at Patriot Family dental will also improve the whiteness of your teeth. A regular exam and cleaning is the best way to maintain good oral health.
Zoom! Whitening
Our dental clinic also offers in-house Zoom! teeth whitening. In-office teeth whitening is the safest procedure our dental office provides and will brighten your teeth up to 8 shades whiter. The procedure will take about an hour and we regularly have discounts that can be taken advantage of. Call our office today, our friendly staff will answer any questions you will have.
4. Should I use a home whitening kit?
Take home whitening kits are also a good way to whiten your teeth. Patriot Family dental has Flashwhite take home kits that were specially designed to be a safe and affordable way to whiten your teeth. Flashwhite isn’t like the other home whitening kits out there. Our dentist designed Flashwhite to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home and are formulated to achieve maximum results in only 10 minutes. Flashwhite uses patented heat & light acceleration technology for fast & easy results without sensitivity.
5. Why should I have dental X-rays taken?
Dental X-rays are pictures of your teeth taken by our staff to help the dentist evaluate the state of your teeth and prescribe a proper treatment. Without dental X-rays, many of your dental problems would go undiagnosed. In recent years X-rays have become even safer, emitting only a nominal amount of radiation. Patriot Family Dental also only takes X-rays when they are necessary.
6. Why is my tooth sensitive?
The enamel of your tooth is a hard protective layer that protects your teeth. When the enamel is worn thin because of trauma, decay, or age, sensitive nerve endings inside the tooth become exposed. This exposure disturbs the nerve endings causing discomfort and pain. The best thing to do is schedule an appointment with our professional dental staff to take care of the sensitivity before further decay occurs.
7. At what age should my child first see a dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) your child should see a dentist about 6 months after the first tooth has erupted. It’s also very important that the child’s primary baby teeth be left in place until they are lost naturally to avoid orthodontic complications.
Have any more questions?
Call us today at (915) 260-6575 or schedule a visit from our Contact page. Our staff is patiently awaiting your call. We are very knowledgeable in dental treatments and can answer any questions you have.
