FAQ's - Frequently Asked Question

We recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year, unless directed otherwise.

The two main sources of bad breath includes plaque between teeth and tongue bacteria. Flossing and tongue brushing help a great deal with bad breath, also known as Halitosis, as well as regular professional cleaning.

We recommend brushing at least twice a day, once in the morning and before going to bed at night.

On average twice a year. However, for some it might be 3-4 times a year depending on how easily buildup occurs.

Professional whitening is the most effective whitening treatment, more specifically Zoom! whitening treatment.

You have three options: Braces/ Invislign, bonding and veneers. Additionally, a combination of the three methods as well is also an option.

They are mostly for maintaining the whiteness but not for generally good for whitening.

Electric tooth brushes offer better options. However, a good use of a manual toothbrush could do as good of a job, too.

Tooth decay is a breakdown of tooth structure due to oral bacteria and plaque build-up.

High sugar diet, sodas, inadequate brushing and flossing cause tooth decay.

Silver fillings have 50% mercury, which can be toxic. Very small amounts of the mercury can be released while chewing which over time may cause side effects in the individual.

The best option is orthodontics to help correct crooked teeth (braces/Invislign). However, bonding and veneers may be used as well to give the appearance of straight teeth.

Anyone who is missing teeth can be a candidate for dental implants. We recommend coming to our Simi Valley dental office for a dental implant consultation.

Patients who have high fear of dental treatment or are undergoing a fairly long procedure can benefit from sedation dentistry.

In addition to the possible negative effect a silver filling may have on your health, they are the number one reason for cracked and fractured teeth. As preventative measure, we highly recommend replacing all silver fillings.

Professionally, you have the option of whitening at home with custom fitted trays or in-office with Zoom. Over-the-counter products have limited success such as Crest white strips.

Coffee and wine stains are easily removed with professional dental cleaning and in most cases are not permanent.

Start with over the counter tooth paste for sensitive teeth such as Sensodyne, a new product by Crest.

Any toothpaste that does not have baking soda is good. We recommend Colgate Total.

Everyone can have tooth colored filling. It is the only type of filling we offer due to its safety, kindness to the teeth and beauty.

It depends on the method of treatment. Movement of teeth via braces/invislign can take anywhere from 1 to 2 years. Restorative options via bonding or veneers may take a day to 4 weeks.

Avoid soda and sugary drinks at all costs. Also, rinsing with water after meals will go a long way to protect your teeth. We recommend eating a healthy diet and proper oral hygiene including regular dental visits will put you on the road to excellent and long-lasting oral health.

No, as long as they do not digest the toothpaste.

Yes. There has been many scientific studies completed that prove it is a safe way to enhance your smile.

Over-the-counter whitening or bleaching treatments have limited success in whitening teeth and work for some more than others. The best OTC product are Crest white strips.

Placing of the implant fixture is a relatively simple procedure if there is adequate bone. Proper planning and preparation is critical to a successful outcome. Once placed, the implant integrates with surrounding bone to provide a solid foundation for replacement teeth.

Brushing teeth alone does not remove plaque between teeth. Flossing is needed as well. In addition the tongue is a source of bad breath and needs to be brushed. There are other sources of bad breath such as large tonsils and stomach problems.

As soon as they get their baby teeth or around the age of 1.

Most children can see a general dentist.