As a dentist in Lynnwood, I am quite often approached by friends or family who have dental-related questions. They either ask for a second opinion or seek a quick response because they haven’t had a chance to see their regular doctor. Here are some of the frequently asked dental questions, based on my years of experience.
What Can I Do, My Jaw Is Popping?
Jaw popping is actually a very common occurrence. In actuality, more than 50% of people will experience jaw popping or pain when they open their mouth. This is an indication of a stretched and weakened ligament. The majority of these pops or clicks are pain free. To avoid overstretching the ligament, you should exercise caution.
Inform your dentist if your jaw is popping. Although there is no immediate danger, your dentist can determine whether the pop is due to a bite-related problem. If there is no bite-related problem, the pop is probably the result of jaw trauma, such as a blow to the chin or persistent clenching and grinding. A bite guard can be used to treat the latter. Changes in behavior can also gradually lessen the impact of a click.
If There Is No Tooth Pain, Do I Actually Have A Cavity?
One of the most prevalent misconceptions about oral health is that all cavities hurt. I frequently see patients who, despite having been told they have 8 cavities, don’t think they do because they don’t experience tooth pain. Until they are very advanced, cavities do not hurt. The pain in this case isn’t coming from the cavity; rather, it is coming from the cavity’s damage to the nerves.
Ask your dentist to show you on an x-ray where you have cavities if you’re unsure of your diagnosis. They should be able to point out the cavities to you and clearly identify them.
Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Crooked Teeth?
The mothers of teenagers who have recently invested in orthodontic treatment are those who ask this dental question the most. The mother is concerned that if her child’s wisdom teeth are not removed, their teeth will crowd and they will require braces once more.
Crowding is not brought on by wisdom teeth, even if they are impacted. We don’t remove them for that reason. We typically extract them because they can harm the molars nearby, cause jaw pain, and lead to bite issues. Because they can’t be properly cleaned, partially impacted wisdom teeth also run the risk of developing cavities and infections. You can learn more about wisdom tooth extraction here.
Can a Cavity Form Under a Crown?
When a patient gets a dental crown, they frequently believe it will shield their tooth permanently. Your tooth will be long-term protected by a crown. It does, however, require regular dental checkups, good brushing and flossing techniques, and maintenance. Even though a crown can last up to 30 years, decay beneath the crown is the main cause of failure.
When a patient neglects their oral hygiene, cavities can develop at the tooth’s margin, where the crown meets the tooth. These margins are checked for decay when you visit the dentist. Maintaining your regular hygiene appointments and at-home care is crucial for this reason.
Really, Do I Need to Have Two Dental Cleanings Per Year?
I frequently get asked, “How often should I visit the dentist?” Many people think they only need a dental cleaning once a year if they have healthy teeth or are in the maintenance stage of treatment. Some people technically only need to visit the dentist once a year. They are the exception, though.
The monitoring and early detection of problems is the most crucial role of a dental cleaning. Plaque that penetrates below the gumline and disturbs the bacterial flora is also broken up by the tools we employ during a teeth cleaning. With just brushing and flossing, it is impossible to maintain a healthy environment.
Have More Dental Questions?
Make an appointment with our Cedar View Dental office in Lynwood, WA if you’re in pain or want a second opinion. We’ll be happy to develop a treatment plan for you and respond to your dental questions.