General dental treatments are preventative in nature. Preventative care keeps patients’ teeth and gums healthy while fighting off common problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Many patients who receive general dental care in our office may have questions about specific treatments and what we can do for their smiles. Here we will answer dental questions about our general dental treatments in Williamsburg, VA.
General Dentistry Q&A
Learn more about the treatment and dental care we provide in our office with answers to these common questions:
What is endodontics?
Endodontics treat injuries to the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the nerves, blood vessels, and cells that keep teeth alive. Endodontists provide dental fillings and root canal treatment to remove the diseased pulp to preserve natural teeth.
How do fluoride treatments help the smile?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens the tooth enamel. At regular dental visits, we provide fluoride treatments to help strengthen children’s teeth. Fluoride is particularly important for the back teeth, or molars because bacteria can collect on chewing surfaces. Children are more at risk of developing cavities because their tooth enamel is not fully developed. Applying fluoride to teeth adds a layer of protection against tooth decay.
What do I do if I have persistent TMJ problems?
At home, apply ice to reduce swelling and numb painful areas. Stick to soft foods to relieve pressure on your jaw joints. You can also do gentle facial stretches to loosen your muscles. Contact our office if symptoms persist. We can provide a nightguard to reduce teeth clenching and grinding. Wearing a nightguard during sleep also
What do I do if I have dental anxiety?
We do not want any of our patients to feel anxious about having to visit the dentist. If you or a loved one have dental fear or anxiety, please contact us before treatment for accommodation. Our team encourages patients to bring objects that calm them to their appointments, particularly music and headphones or earbuds. Listening to music during routine treatment can help calm patients, especially if they don’t like the sound of dental tools. We can also provide dental sedation as needed so patients feel fully relaxed during their treatment.
Do I have sleep apnea if I snore?
Patients who have sleep apnea can snore. However, snoring alone does not mean that you have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when there are pauses in breathing due to a blocked airway. Snoring occurs when the airway vibrates. If you snore but also experience symptoms like insomnia, daytime sleepiness, dry mouth, and morning headaches, contact our office. You may have sleep apnea.
Do you have any more questions about general dental care? Request your next dental appointment with us on our website. You can also call Dr. Stacey Hall and her team at 757-216-9873.