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Dr. Laura Durham

 

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use?
A:  Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and a small head.  Soft bristles will get your teeth clean without causing damage to the teeth and gums; Move the brush horizontally in small circles being sure to get the areas where the gums meet the teeth.  Also make sure to brush all tooth surfaces - inside, outside and chewing surfaces.

Q: Is one toothpaste better than others? 
A:  We recommend our patients use what tastes good to them as long as it contains fluoride.  Check the box for the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance. Use only a very small amount of toothpaste until your child is old enough to spit after brushing.

Q: How often should I floss?  
A:  Flossing of the teeth once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy.

      If you have braces we recommend using a waterflosser in addition to brushing and flossing.

Q. How often should I see my dentist?

A. Getting your oral health checked and your teeth cleaned every six months gives you the best chance of staying healthy and getting any problems treated before they become major.

Q. When should I bring my child for his or her first dental visit?

A. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a pediatric dentist when the first teeth come in or by age one,  whichever is earlier.

     You should start cleaning your baby's teeth as soon as they appear and be sure to never let him or her sleep with a bottle.

Q: What about "silver" fillings versus "white" fillings?
A:  We  prefer tooth-colored fillings because they bond to the tooth structure and therefore help strengthen a tooth weakened by decay. These fillings are  usually less sensitive to temperature, and they also look better. However,  they cannot be used in every situation, and if a tooth is very badly broken-down, a crown or cap may be necessary.

 

 

 


 

102 Cresent West
Griffin, GA 30224
(770) 412-8636