Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
Most adults benefit from professional cleaning and a check up every six months, but the American Dental Association (ADA) now recommends tailoring the interval to your personal risk factors (e.g., smoking, diabetes, gum disease). High-risk patients may need a check-up every 3–4 months, while low-risk patients can go every 6months.
When should my child have their first dental appointment?
The ADA and World Health Organization advise booking a “dental home” by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth’s appearance. Early visits let your dentist catch problems before they escalate and coach parents on brushing, diet, and fluoride treatment.
What is the best way to brush and floss?
Brush twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristle or ADA-approved electric brush, holding the bristles at a 45° angle to the gumline. Floss (or use interdental brushes) once a day to remove plaque your brush misses. Finish with an alcohol-free, fluoride mouth-rinse if recommended.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?
Meta-analyses show oscillating–rotating or sonic electric brushes can reduce plaque by 11-21 % and gingivitis(Gum inflammation or swollen gums) by 6-11 % versus manual brushing, especially helpful for patients with limited dexterity or orthodontic appliances. Technique still matters, so use whichever brush encourages consistent cleaning.
Do I really need fluoride toothpaste?
Yes. Fluoride strengthens enamel, reverses early decay, and is endorsed by the ADA. Look for at least 1,350 ppm fluoride (1,000 ppm for children under six) and the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Diagnostics & Safety
Are dental X-rays safe?
Modern digital sensors cut radiation dramatically; a routine bite-wing series equals roughly 0.005 mSv—about the dose you receive on a short airline flight. Your dentist follows the ALARA/ALADA principle (radiation “As Low As Reasonably Achievable/Diagnostically Acceptable”) and takes images only when clinically necessary.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
Healthy, low-risk adults may need bite-wings every 06–12months, while children, orthodontic, or high-risk patients may require images more frequently to monitor growth or decay. Your dentist will individualize the schedule.
Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?
Sensitivity arises when dentin tubules are exposed by enamel wear, gum recession. Switching to a desensitizing fluoride toothpaste, avoiding acidic foods, and having your dentist apply a sealant or gum-graft can help. Persistent pain warrants a check-up to rule out decay or cracked teeth.
Common Treatments
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern anesthetics, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure—often less discomfort than the toothache that led to treatment. Mild tenderness for a few days is normal and controlled with over-the-counter painkillers.
How much does a root canal cost in India?
Fees vary by city and tooth type. Typical 2025 ranges are ₹2,000–₹4,500 for front teeth and ₹3,500–₹7,000 for molars in metro areas; laser RCT or specialized techniques can reach ₹8,000.
How long will my dental crown last?
With good hygiene and routine check-ups, porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconia crowns last 10–15 years on average, while all-ceramic and gold alternatives can exceed 20 years. Avoiding hard-food biting, bruxism guards, and maintaining clean margins extend longevity.
What is gum disease and how is it treated?
Gum disease (periodontitis) is an infection of the supporting tissues around teeth. Early stages (gingivitis) reverse with professional teeth cleaning and improved home care. Advanced cases need deep teeth cleaning & root-planing, possible antibiotics, and, for severe bone loss, regenerative surgery or laser therapy.
Can I have orthodontic treatment after a root canal?
Yes. Properly treated, well-restored root-canal teeth withstand normal orthodontic forces without jeopardizing prognosis.
Cosmetic Dentistry
How can I whiten my teeth safely?
Options include in-office bleaching- procedure done in a dental clinic (fastest, strongest), custom take-home trays, or ADA-approved OTC strips (10 % hydrogen peroxide or less). Temporary sensitivity is common; which can be resolved with well planned sessions and use ofvfluoride gel between treatments. Restorations and crowns won’t change color.
How long do whitening results last?
Expect 6–24 months, depending on diet(staining food-tea,coffee,tumeric), tobacco use, and oral care. Touch-up trays- at home or polishing or whitening -in dental visits maintain brightness.
What are porcelain veneers and are they permanent?
Veneers are thin, custom ceramic shells bonded to the teeth to correct color, shape, or gaps. They typically last 10–15 years but require removing a thin layer of enamel, so replacement is inevitable if they chip or stain.
Dental Implants & Restorative Options
How much do dental implants cost in India?
A single implant (implant + crown) averages ₹30,000–₹60,000, depending on brand, bone-grafting needs, and city. Full-arch “All-on-4”-Full arch replacement supported on 4 Implants solutions start around ₹2–4 lakh per arch.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Most Indian medical plans exclude implants, but some premium dental policies reimburse 10-30 %. Tax-saving health wallets or EMI financing can offset costs.
How long do implants last?
With good oral hygiene and annual maintenance visits, implant success exceeds 95 % in 10 years. Avoid smoking and uncontrolled diabetes, which raise failure risk.
Emergencies & Pain
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Hold the tooth by the crown, rinse gently under a slow stream of water (don’t scrub), and place it back in the socket or in cold milk/saline. See a dentist within one hour for the best chance of reimplantation.
Why does my toothache get worse at night?
Lying down increases blood flow and pressure to the head, intensifying pulpal inflammation. Painkillers provide temporary relief, but persistent pain signals decay or infection—schedule an urgent check up.
Pediatric & Orthodontic Care
At what age should my child consider braces?
The Indian Orthodontic Society recommends an orthodontic screening by age 7 to spot crowding or jaw issues, even if treatment starts later (11-13 years).
How do I protect my child’s teeth from cavities?
Limit sugary snacks to mealtimes,rinsing your mouth with water after every meal, brush with a Peas size smear of fluoride toothpaste twice daily, consider dental sealants on newly erupted teeth, and ensure biannual check-ups.
Lifestyle & Risk Factors
How does my diet affect oral health?
Frequent sugary or acidic foods fuel cavity-causing bacteria and erode enamel. Aim for balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy (calcium), and water; chew sugar-free gum with xylitol to stimulate saliva after snacks.
Is vaping bad for my teeth?
Yes. Research links e-cigarette aerosols to dry mouth, gum inflammation, enamel erosion, and higher caries risk—effects similar to smoking. Quitting or minimising use protects oral tissues.
Will scaling and polishing make my teeth white?
Scaling and polishing can make your teeth appear cleaner and brighter by removing surface stains, plaque, and tartar buildup. However, they won’t change the natural color of your teeth. If you’re looking for a noticeably whiter shade, you may need professional teeth whitening treatments
Will scaling and polishing make my teeth weak?
No, scaling and polishing will not make your teeth weak. These are professional dental procedures designed to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains without harming the enamel. In fact, regular scaling and polishing help maintain healthy gums and prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.