At Sala Family Dentistry our commitment is to put the patient's needs first. We provide old-fashioned service with cutting-edge technology. Our Reno dental office prides itself on being patient oriented. We focus on your needs to create the smiles of your dreams. Your experience at Sala Family Dentistry is our utmost priority. We feel the only way to serve you is with concern, clear communication, and clinical excellence.
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Sala Family Dentistry FAQ
Q: At what age should I bring my child in for their first dental visit?
A: The American Dental Association recommends that a child be seen by a dentist as soon as soon as his or her first tooth erupts, but at the least no later than their first birthday for a well baby check-up. At this appointment the doctor will do a visual exam to check for decay or other abnormalities and will review homecare and healthy habits to ensure that your child maintains a healthy happy smile.
Q: What are dental sealants?
A: Sealants are a thin protective barrier placed into the grooves on permanent molars to protect the chewing surfaces from the effects of decay-causing bacteria. It is recommended that permanent molars have sealants placed on them as soon as they are fully erupted. Both Children and adults can benefit from dental sealants.
Q: Can I receive dental treatment during my pregnancy?
A: It is recommended to maintain your regular check-up and cleaning appointments because pregnant women are at a higher risk for gingivitis. Good oral care is important for mother and baby. Gum disease is linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Elective dental treatment should be avoided during the first trimester. At your check-up appointment, you and your dentist will be able to determine the best time for treatment and whether to modify your treatment plan to better suit your needs and the baby’s health.
Q: How do I avoid tooth decay?
A: By maintaining routine dental visits your hygienist will be able to work with you on how to care for your teeth and what fluoride you should be using. It is important to brush twice a day for two minutes each time. Clean in-between your teeth once a day with floss, a waterpik, or a toothpick. It is also important to limit the sugar exposures on your teeth which can easily be done by limiting eating between meals and when snacking, give preference to nutritious foods. Drinking plain water (no lemon added) between meals will reduce the sugar and acid exposures that other drinks contain (soda, sports drinks, vitamin waters, energy drinks, coffee, tea, juice and milk).
Q: How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
A: It is recommended to have your teeth cleaned every six months unless your dentist has diagnosed you as having periodontal disease. Patients with periodontal disease should follow the recommended treatment that your dentist has discussed with you and expect that the follow-up cleanings may be as frequent as every 3 to 4 months.
Q: Does my oral healthy have an effect on my overall health?
A: Studies indicate periodontal (gum) disease may increase your risk for a variety of health concerns such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory disease, preterm and low birth weight infants. Factors that may put you at an increased risk for gum disease include: infrequent dental cleanings, family history of gum disease, smoking, poor oral hygiene, stress, prior gum disease, hormones, diabetes, and age.
Q: What is the best way to whiten my teeth?
A: The best way would be through custom trays fabricated by your dentist. The whitening gel that is used in the whitening trays will oxygenate and remove the stains from the pores of your teeth with out removing tooth structure. Occasionally, patients may experience slight sensitivity during the whitening process because the pores are not used to being open and clean. There are products to prevent the sensitivity that some people may have experienced in the past and we can help you prevent it in the future!