At Birch Point Dental, we want you to feel comfortable with your treatment options and to understand all of the factors that can affect the health and appearance of your smile. We have provided the answers to some of the most commonly asked dental questions:

Why should I visit the dentist regularly?

Many people only visit the dentist when they have a noticeable problem. While they may think they’re saving money, the reality is that the treatments to repair and restore teeth actually cost more money and time than it does to visit the dentist at regular intervals. Visiting the dental office regularly ensures that you receive preventive care to stop problems in the earliest stages of development, and hopefully prevent them from developing in the first place. We can monitor your oral health and help you learn the best ways to care for your teeth so they remain healthy. You should visit our office at least twice each year, depending on your dental needs.

Why do I need to floss?

Brushing your teeth will clean the surfaces of your teeth, but will not reach the areas between the teeth or below the gumline. Flossing ensures that plaque and bacteria are removed from your mouth before they can cause damage to your teeth.

How often should I brush and floss?

You should brush at least twice each day, and floss daily. It is especially important that you brush your teeth before going to bed.

How safe are dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays are extremely safe. In fact, you are exposed to less radiation with dental X-rays than you are in your day-to-day life from the sun. Advances in dentistry continue to make dental X-rays safer through digital imaging technologies and higher-speed X-rays. Additionally, federal law requires that X-ray machines be checked for safety and accuracy every two years.

I’m terrified to visit the dentist — what can I do?

Please speak with our team. We take your fear seriously and will work with you to help you feel more comfortable in our office. There are many strategies that we can use to help reduce anxiety and fear. These include medications to numb treated areas and a variety of techniques to reduce anxiety and pain (music, deep breathing, analgesics, etc.).

When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time about six months after their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. These appointments are designed to help your child become comfortable in the dental office and ensure that he or she is growing and developing correctly.