Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Orlando, FL
Ask Your Orlando Dentist
On top of the dental services we provide, patient education is also important because when it comes to protecting your oral health, knowledge is power. Each of our dentists and team members is happy to answer your questions, and to get started, we’ve gone ahead and responded to some of the most common ones below.
How often should I brush my teeth?
The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day—once in the morning and evening—for two minutes each. This works for most people, but for those with gum disease or who tend to get a lot of cavities, brushing after every meal is highly recommended.
Is flossing really that important?
Yes! When you brush and don’t floss, you leave about 40% of your mouth unclean. This means that leftover bacteria have the opportunity to feed on food particles, and this causes them to create acids that break down your enamel and damage your gums. Flossing removes bacteria and leftover food from between your teeth in a way that your brush simply can’t, going a long way in preventing problems before they start.
When should I schedule a dental checkup?
The average person should receive a professional dental checkup and cleaning at least twice a year. This is often enough that the most common dental issues can be discovered before they cause any real damage. These can typically be scheduled about six months apart. But for patients who have gum disease, coming in once a quarter is usually the better approach.
Are professional teeth cleanings necessary?
Absolutely! While brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash does a tremendous amount of good when it comes to preventing cavities, the truth is that these practices can’t remove all of the nasty things in your mouth. Only a cleaning by a trained hygienist can get rid of the hardened plaque (tartar) and deposits of bacteria hidden below your gums. Fortunately, just getting two cleanings a year is enough for most people to stay cavity-free.
Will you take my dental insurance?
Most likely yes, as Your Downtown Dentistry is happy to file claims for all insurance plans and handle the paperwork so you can gain access to your savings without the hassle. If you want to know how we can use your plan, just give us a call, and we can verify your benefits ahead of your visit.
I don’t have insurance. Are there other ways to pay for dentistry?
Yes! You can sign up for CareCredit or Sunbit financing right through our website. Both are used by countless healthcare providers around the country, and they offer plans lasting anywhere from three to 60 months depending on your preference. Many feature little to no interest, and signing up and being approved only takes a few minutes.