Patient Information

While bad breath (or “halitosis”) can be linked to numerous systemic diseases, some of bad breath originates in the mouth. A dry mouth or a low salivary flow can also influence bad odor. There are two main goals in the management of bad breath. First, controlling the bacteria that produce the sulfur compounds and second, to neutralize the sulfur compounds that are produced. See your Dentist to discuss the best options for you.

Call our office immediately. Our doctors see their established patients outside business hours on an emergency basis. We always leave their cell phone numbers on the after business hours machine.

There are numerous types of teeth stains; some are genetic, environmental or pharmacological in nature. The most common are surface stains on the enamel or beneath the enamel in the dentin. Surface stains are caused by foods, beverages and lifestyle behaviors, like smoking. Over time, surface stains may penetrate the enamel and change the color of the dentin, which darkens the overall appearance of the tooth due to the translucency of the enamel layer. When this occurs, the tooth often appears yellow.

While both electric and manual toothbrushes have pros and cons, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, the best toothbrush is the one you will actually use. Thus, deciding between a manual and electric toothbrush ultimately comes down to personal preference. After your cleaning visit, you and your hygienist can discuss which option is best for you and your lifestyle.

Brushing and flossing of the teeth controls the bacteria (also called plaque) that grow on the teeth and in the gums. If these bacteria are not removed adequately on a regular basis they will cause tooth decay and gum disease.

It is important that you brush your teeth at least two times per day, in the morning and at night, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is important that you brush all surfaces of the teeth (inner, outer, and chewing) and that the toothbrush bristles are in contact with the gum line when brushing the outer and inner portions. Electric toothbrushes are recommended as they are more efficient at removing plaque.

Flossing should be done at least once per day, preferably at night. It is important to curve the floss around each tooth and extend it below the gum line while cleaning the side of each tooth. If you have any questions about brushing or flossing techniques please ask your hygienist at your next visit.

In a perfect world, everyone would brush and floss twice a day. Plaque builds up over time and this sticky bacterial film can solidify and turn into calculus or tartar.

Yes. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill our patient forms unless you printed them and filled them out from our website. Link to these forms can be found here under New Patient forms.

If you haven’t filled out our online patient forms please arrive 10-15 minutes early to do so, or download our New Patient forms here.

A New Patient Exam appointment generally takes between 1.5-2 hours. After that, a normal checkup is scheduled for 1 hour.