Dental Care Paoli, PA

Regular dental visits ensure you receive preventive care, which can stop problems in their earliest stages and hopefully prevent them from developing altogether. Monitoring your oral health helps you learn the best ways to care for your teeth so they remain healthy. Visiting the dentist regularly can save you time and money by avoiding more extensive treatments later. You should visit our office twice each year.

Brushing your teeth cleans the surfaces, but it does not reach between the teeth or below the gumline. Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from these areas, preventing damage to your teeth and gums.

You should brush at least twice a day. Ideally, you should brush after each meal and before bed. Use an ADA-approved soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Floss daily, and consider using a mouthrinse. Contact our office if you have any questions.

Dental X-rays are very safe, exposing you to less radiation than you encounter daily from the sun. Advances in digital imaging and higher-speed X-rays have made them even safer. Federal law requires regular safety checks on X-ray machines.

Speak with our team about your fears. We take your concerns seriously and offer strategies to reduce anxiety, including medications, sedation dentistry and techniques like guided imagery and deep breathing. There are also dentophobia clinics and support groups available.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist about six months after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. Early visits help your child become comfortable with dental care and ensure proper development.

Babies start developing teeth in the second trimester of pregnancy. Teeth typically emerge between 6 and 10 months of age. Begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they have two adjacent teeth.

Primary teeth are crucial for proper speech, chewing nutrition and maintaining space for adult teeth. They ensure good oral health and proper development. Take good care of your child’s primary teeth and schedule regular dental visits.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth for a more beautiful smile. Treatments include teeth whitening, dental veneers, composite fillings, dental bonding, crowns, bridges, implants and orthodontics.

We offer several options to replace a missing tooth, including implants, bridges, dentures and implant-supported dentures. Our dentists will examine your mouth, discuss your needs and goals and create a customized treatment plan.

A root canal treats infected or injured tooth pulp. We clean out the infected tissue, sterilize the canals and seal the tooth to prevent future infection. Advances in dentistry have made root canals comfortable and effective.

Orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists have additional training in managing tooth movement and guiding facial development.

The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends an initial screening by age 7. At this age, several permanent teeth have erupted, making it easier to diagnose and treat any developing problems.

No, as long as your teeth and supporting structures are healthy, you can receive orthodontic treatment at any age. More adults are seeking treatment to improve their smiles and oral health.

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, affects the gums and supporting structures. It starts as a bacterial infection and can progress to destroy gums and bone. Gingivitis is the milder form, while periodontitis is more severe.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in plaque. As plaque hardens into tartar, the disease becomes more established. Gum attachments separate from teeth, creating pockets that harbor bacteria, potentially leading to irreversible damage if untreated.

Symptoms include:

• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Bleeding of the gums
• Receding gums
• Pus between gums and teeth
• Sores on the gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in your bite
• Changes in the fit of oral appliances, including dentures

Bad breath can be caused by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, tobacco use and certain foods. Visit our dentist regularly, practice good oral hygiene, stay hydrated and avoid tobacco. If halitosis persists, consult a physician to rule out medical conditions.

A crown is needed when too much tooth structure is removed for a filling, after root canal treatment, to attach bridges, or to cover badly shaped or discolored teeth. Crowns restore the tooth’s natural shape and size and typically require two visits.

Resin composite fillings are made of ceramic and plastic compounds, mimicking natural teeth. Advances in technology have made them durable enough for back teeth. They bond to the tooth, restoring its strength and requiring less tooth structure removal compared to amalgam fillings.

Composite fillings restore the tooth’s strength and require less tooth removal. Amalgam fillings are stronger but can weaken teeth over time. Composites are more aesthetic and preferred by most patients due to their appearance and safety.

If a tooth is loose but in the socket, see your dentist immediately. If knocked out, pick it up by the crown, rinse gently and try to reinsert it or place it in milk. See a dentist within 30 minutes to improve the chances of saving the tooth.

Yes, most natural teeth can be whitened. Surface stains from food and drinks can be removed with brushing or bleaching products. Deep stains may require veneers or bonding. Consult with our dentists to determine the best option for you and ensure your teeth are healthy enough for whitening.