Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Normal healthy gums do not bleed when brushed. Bleeding is a sign of inflammation. And this is due to the presence of local irritants; i.e., bacteria in plaque or tartar. Periodic professional cleanings are necessary to minimize the accumulation of these irritants. Then proper oral hygiene at home can keep the gums healthy.
Why do I grind my teeth?
Grinding of the teeth is usually stress related. In students it's especially pronounced during mid terms and finals week.
What is a nightguard or occlusal guard?
A nightguard is a hard acrylic splint that covers the teeth of one arch. It therapeutically minimizes grinding and protects the teeth and jaw joint from the enormous pressure that can be exerted from grinding.
How does a nightguard made by the Dentist's office differ from an athletic guard that you can purchase at a sporting goods store?
A professionally made nightguard is custom fitted and usually made of hard acrylic. The athletic guard from a Sporting Goods Store is usually soft and "boil/mold". It acts only as a cushion between the teeth to help avoid fractures from sports injury. Grinding may even be aggravated with such an athletic guard.
Why do I need to floss once a day?
Brushing alone can not reach in between the teeth. The plaque needs to be disrupted and removed daily; as plaque forms every 24 hours.
What can be done for TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint) disorder?
There are a number of things a person suffering from TMD can do on his own to alleviate painful symptoms. Please check out our Web site for helpful suggestions. If those suggestions do not help then professional intervention might include splint therapy, occlusal equilibration, physical therapy or even surgery.
What are the differences Between Over the Counter Teeth(OTC) Whitening and Tres White Disposable System used in the Student Health Dental Clinic?
- Larger coverage to second molar (strips have coverage only for 6 anteriors)
- Stays on much better
- Much stronger gel material(Dentist Rx Level)as much as three times the strength of OTC gel material
- Fluoride in gel along with a de-sensitizer (Potassium Nitrate) neither of which is included in OTC materials.
- Much better and longer lasting results. (In the long term is much more cost effective).
- Yummy flavors.
