FAQs

What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics deals with correction of irregular teeth structure or malformed teeth to bring about better facial appearance. Depending on the position, various alternatives treatment options are suggested.

What are the type of braces available?

Braces can be fixed (Begg’s / Straight Wire) or removable type and can be selected based on individual needs. Removable braces are not as effective as fixed type. A variety of materials (conventional to highly cosmetic types) are available in Straight Wire type braces. Cosmetic braces (thin wire, mini diamond, colored, golden etc.) are now highly popular and are imported from USA.

How long will orthodontic treatment take?

Orthodontic treatment may involve moving a single tooth or it can involve jaw surgery. Usually braces need to be kept for 6 – 24 months with orthodontic adjustments and monitoring every 4 to 8 weeks. This is followed by placing a retainer to hold the teeth in their new position for further periods of up to 18 months.

What is the right age for Orthodontic Treatment?

Early treatment (for 7- 9 year olds) could result in shorter and less complicated procedure. The treatment attempts to influence bone growth for better and faster results. Treatments for teenagers are also are very effective. Treatments for adults are longer than for children. However, a vast majority of those taking Orthodontic treatments are still adults.

What is Scaling?

Scaling is the procedure of removing calculus/tartar deposition on teeth.

Can food be taken immediately after Dental Treatment?

No. Its better to leave an hour before the first intake.

What is Periodontics? What is the treatment procedure?

Periodontics deals with treatment of diseases of gum, surrounding teeth. The condition is treated by scaling, deep curettage, flap surgery, alveolar bone reconstruction surgery, bone grafting etc.

What is Endodontics?

Endodontics deals with treatments like crowning/capping, inlays, outlays, root canal treatments and restorations

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic Dentistry deals with improving tooth structure, shape, arrangement and smile design.

When is tooth extraction necessary?

If the tooth is badly infected and root canal treatment is not possible, tooth has to be extracted. In the case of problematic wisdom teeth and for certain therapeutic purposes tooth is extracted.

Is an artificial tooth fixed at the point of extracted tooth? When is this done?

Yes, artificial tooth can be fixed immediately after extraction

I feel constant severe pain and pressure with swelling of gums.

Tooth abscess is likely which causes surrounding gum and bone to become infected. Meet your dentist for an immediate evaluation and treatment.

I feel dull ache and pressure on upper teeth and jaw.

This could be due to sinusitis. Consult your dentist who will refer you to a specialist, in the event of sinus related problem.

What is plaque?

Plaque is a sticky material formed by mucus, saliva, food particles and bacteria which sticks on the surface of teeth.

What is tartar?

Tartar is mineralized plaque. This is the yellowish-brown, hard substance that forms when calcium from the saliva attaches to the teeth. It cannot be removed by a toothbrush or floss and normally requires the expertise of a dentist for removal.

My teeth is discolored. Can it be made to look white? What are the procedures?

Definitely. The teeth can be made to look white by cleaning/polishing and by bleaching. In certain cases, teeth capping, composite material treatment or ceramic veneer are applied.

Isn’t tooth extraction very painful?

Tooth extraction is a minor surgical procedure. Your dentist will apply local anesthesia causing numbness in mouth and also use antibiotics. Hence, you will not feel any pain. After the extraction, there could be some discomfort which is natural.

What all dental problems can cause bad breath?

Deposition of plaque/calculus on teeth, Gum Swelling, Periodontal Problems, Tooth Abscess and Cavities in Tooth can cause bad breath. Off course, other than dental problems, bad breath can be caused by throat / ear infection, sinusitis and gastric problems.

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment refers to treatment of a tooth that has become infected resulting in pus formation at the root of the teeth. The procedure, removes the infected nerves and tissues from inside the tooth. The tooth can remain in the mouth.

What is Cavity and how is it caused?

The loss of enamel surface of tooth due to action of plaque or due to improper brushing is called cavity. The acid attacks the soft inner layer of tooth causing severe pain. Bacteria could infect the inner pulp of teeth and destroy nerves, There could be bad breath and bad taste in mouth.

What should be done if cavities are formed?

The carious or decayed part of tooth has to be removed and cavities filled.

What are the type of fillings available to treat cavities?

Zinc Oxide Eugenol cement, Glass enamel, silver, composite materials etc. are used.

What happens if cavities are left untreated?

Bacteria could infect the inner pulp of teeth and destroy nerves. This would require root canal therapy to remove damaged nerves .

I have chronic pain in head, neck or ears

This could be due to damaged tooth pulp. Consult your dentist who will refer you to a specialist, in the event of any other problem.

My teeth are sensitive to hot, cold or sweet food.

The sensitivity could be due to gum recession which exposes small areas of root surface, a loose filling or tooth decay. I get sharp pain while eating food.

May be due to tooth decay, a loose filling, damage to tooth pulp tissue or a crack in tooth.

AhhaTIPS:

1. Dental Visit

 Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health.

Please understand that the dental procedures are no more painful as it used to be. Your dentist will use anesthetic sprays and injections to suppress pain.

Chat with the dentist to let him understand your problems better.

If you are feeling any discomfort during treatment, signal the dentist to stop.

During the dental visit, ask the dentist to explain each step of the dental procedure before hand, if needed.

2. Proper Brushing Techniques

A large number of dental problems are due to improper brushing resulting in damages to the enamel coating, accumulation of plaque, tartar formation and gum diseases. Click here to learn proper brushing and flossing techniques. Parents should teach their children proper techniques early.

3. General Tips

Eat balanced food, that have minerals and vitamins.

Avoid eating sweets or sticky food between meals.

Brush your teeth after every meal.

Use a good tooth paste and tooth brush.

Visit your dentist once in 6 months.

If your child has protruding or misaligned teeth, start orthodontic treatments early (9 years age), for better results.

Never put off meeting your dentist. Minor pain and sensitivity, if untreated can lead to major complications.

Make use of the wealth of information on this site to maintain healthy teeth!!