Answers to Common Dental Questions

Dr. Jerry Gordon

Recently I was asked to participate in an Internet chat session for ShopRite supermarket. It was an open forum where people could ask whatever dental questions they wanted. The chat was very productive, and I thought I would share some of the great questions and my answers with you.

Question: Hey, do those whitening toothpastes really work?
Answer: Over the counter whitening toothpastes have only been shown to whiten teeth two shades. In contrast, a dentist-supervised tooth whitening system can whiten teeth twelve to fifteen shades.

Question: What's up with these multiple varieties of toothpastes anyway? You've got your "tarter control,' your extra whitening, your mint flavor gel, etc. How do I know which toothpaste to buy these days? Help!
Answer: That's a good question. The type of toothpaste you use should be based on the condition of your teeth and gums. Your dentist is the best person to suggest what toothpaste you need based on the condition of your mouth. I generally recommend Colgate Total because it has been shown to be effective in reducing cavities and gingivitis. I would point out however, that the frequency of brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist play a much greater role in improving oral health than which brand of toothpaste you are using.

Question: I've heard that you aren't supposed to have your teeth cleaned while pregnant. Is this true? Why?
Answer: No, that is not true. In fact, hormonal changes during pregnancy can make the gums more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. You should have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice during pregnancy. It is recommended that routine check up x-rays be avoided during pregnancy. If a tooth is infected, however, dental x-rays can safely be taken without any danger to the unborn child.

Question: I use Listerine mouthwash and it actually hurts my gums when gargling...Is this normal?
Answer: Yes, some people do experience discomfort when using Listerine at full strength. I recommend that you dilute the Listerine with water by at least 50% (half Listerine, half water). That should solve the problem. I would also recommend that you see your dentist to evaluate your teeth and gums.

Question: Is it safe for small children to use mouthwash (Under age 8)?
Answer: I would not recommend the routine use of mouthwash unless directed by your dentist. If a mouthwash is recommended, its use should be supervised with small children.

Question: What are some alternatives to braces? Also, if my dentist tells me I need them, should I get a second opinion?
Answer: If your dentist believes that you need braces, you should go to an orthodontist for his or her opinion. If the teeth need to be straightened, there are some alternatives to braces that your orthodontist can offer. One recent development is that the orthodontist, working with a high tech lab, can make a series of customized mouthguards (clear acrylic) that can move the teeth and straighten them in some cases. If you are looking for a cosmetic alternative to braces, porcelain veneers can also make teeth appear straight without the use of braces. Good luck!

Question: I'm quite a chain smoker and I'm getting my wisdom teeth removed this weekend. My dentist warned me not to smoke for a while after the procedure, but I know I will... Is it really that bad? Will a few cigarettes cause problems?
Answer: Yes, smoking after dental extractions can increase the rate of complications. Some of the complications that can occur from smoking after oral surgery include increased bleeding and increased likelihood of a painful infection of the extraction socket (dry socket). If you must smoke and know that you cannot stop for 24 hours, my only suggestion would be to take very light drags of the cigarette and direct the smoke away from the areas where the teeth have been removed.

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