Dental Health FAQs

You have questions and we have answers. Look here for some of the most frequently discussed dental topics. And if you have other questions, please send us a quick email.

• Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use?

  A: It’s less about brand and more about features when you pick out a new toothbrush. Look for a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, which will get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. Stay away from toothbrushes with medium or hard bristles, which can contribute to recession of your gums. And change that brush frequently – at least every three to four months.

• Q: How much should I scrub my teeth?

  A: When it’s time to brush your teeth, do so in a gentle way. Instead of “scrubbing” think about brushing being more like a massage of your teeth and gums. Brush at least twice a day and see your dentist at least every six months for professional cleanings.

• Q: What’s the best toothpaste to use?

  A: We always recommend that you select a brand that has fluoride to protect against decay and strengthen tooth enamel. And choose a brand that has the American Dental Association seal of approval.

• Q: How often should I floss?

  A: Floss daily. Flossing is one of the best ways to prevent cavities from forming between your teeth and to keep your gums healthy.

• Q: What's the difference between a crown and a cap?

  A: There’s no difference between a crown and a cap. A crown is a restoration that caps a tooth. Crowns can be used to hold a cracked tooth together, restore a tooth when there isn’t enough tooth left for a filling, help to attach a bridge or cover badly shaped or discolored teeth.

• Q: What's the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?

  A: Both bridges and partial dentures replace missing teeth. A bridge is permanently attached to neighboring teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and can be easily removed. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures.

• Q: How do silver and tooth-colored fillings differ?

  A: Fillings provide support to teeth that have developed decay, or cavities. Fillings are made of special strong and durable materials. These materials have high safety ratings.

  • Composite materials can be matched to blend in with surrounding teeth. This material bonds well to the tooth and is less sensitive to temperature. Composite fillings last about 7 to 10 years.
  • Silver amalgam: Due to an ongoing controversy about the safety of the mercury used in silver amalgam fillings, and our commitment to more natural health remedies, Fallston Dental Care has decided not to restore teeth with this type of material.

• Q: Do I need to have a crown after a root canal?

  A: When a tooth has been damaged by an injury or a large cavity, the root can become infected. A root canal procedure cleans out the infection. The tooth is then filled to keep the tooth free of further infection and to strengthen the tooth. In most cases, it is recommended that these teeth get a crown for both protection from fracture and for cosmetics.