FAQ

Our Frequently Asked Questions.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Your teeth are complicated bones in your body linked to complex structures, your gums and the rest of your mouth. Because of this there are many things you may not know that could benefit you.

At Smiles by Morel we keep you informed on everything you need to know to keep your smile bright, from information on how to clean your teeth, maintain them, and keep them white. Any answers you can’t find here, just ask our staff!

Buy toothbrushes with soft bristles. Medium and firm ones can damage teeth and gums. Use soft pressure, for 2 minutes, two times a day.

Both powered and manual toothbrushes clean teeth well. Manual brushes with mixed bristle heights or angled bristles clean better than those with all flat, even bristles. Powered toothbrushes may be easier if you have trouble using your hands.

Set a reminder to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Toss it sooner if the bristles look bent or splayed out. Bent bristles don’t clean as well. (They’re also a sign you may be brushing too hard.)

Most toothpastes will clear away bacteria growth and acids from food and drinks. Toothpastes with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance always have fluoride, which strengthens and protects teeth. If you want a non-fluoride option, stores carry toothpastes and powders made with natural ingredients that don’t have ADA testing and approval. If you have any specific needs or conditions that may require different kinds of toothpaste such as toothpaste for tooth sensitivity, ask our dentist for options.

Don’t forget to schedule your bi-yearly doctors visit to determine if you need a teeth cleaning.

There’s no getting around the need to get around your teeth daily with dental floss. It clears food and plaque from between teeth and under the gum-line. If you don’t, plaque hardens into tartar, which forms wedges and widens the space between teeth and gums, causing pockets. Over time, gums pull away and teeth loosen. Flossing helps to avoid the formation of periodontal diseases.

Either waxed or unwaxed floss will do the job. Using floss picks or interdental brushes is another easy option.

Caps and crowns cover problem teeth by surrounding them in a material that looks like a real tooth. They use the root and inside of the tooth as a base to build on, then attach with special cement.

Veneers and bonding improve your  smile by sticking a layer of smoother and whiter materials like porcelain or resin to the natural tooth.

Talk with our dentist about which fix is right for you.

Visit us if you have any of these issues or see your child having trouble chewing or complaining of soreness:

Getting checked out right away prevents more serious problems and infections.

Regular exams help spot trouble early to prevent bigger and more costly treatments later. Our dental hygienist will start by cleaning buildup from your teeth. Then Dr. Morel will probe spots on the surfaces and near the gum-line with special tools. If it’s been a while between appointments, you may have some sore and sensitive areas. You should get an exam every 6 months, or more often if recommended. We will make you feel at ease and let you know what to expect. Often the dread of seeing the dentist turns into a big relief when the visit is over and you have a care plan set up.

Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for their safety.

Expect to get them during a first exam after not seeing a dentist for a while. This helps check tooth and gum health. If you have gum disease, our dentist may want pictures every 6 months.

Kids have more X-rays done than adults because their teeth are changing and because they get cavities more easily.

Stores sell many whitening products, and you can get take-home gels and trays from us, but neither is as strong as  our zoom whitening procedures done in our dental office.

If you want to try an over-the-counter whitener, look for one with an ADA seal. Check with Dr. Morel for advice before you buy, especially if you have dental work or dark stains. And don’t keep using them, or you could damage your teeth.