FAQs

At Pike & Valega, DDS, we believe that patient education plays a huge role in helping our patients feel comfortable and confident about their dental care decisions. We hope that this frequently asked question (FAQ) section answers some of the questions you may have about dentistry and dental care.

If we didn’t answer your question or you have additional concerns, we encourage you to contact us. The dental team at our Poolesville dental office and Rockville dental office are always available to answer your questions.

What Is the Proper Way To Brush Your Teeth?

When done correctly, brushing your teeth will remove plaque, harmful bacteria and food particles from the surface of your teeth and between your teeth and around the gum line.

To properly brush your teeth, do the following:

• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle.
• Keep the bristles of the brush aimed downwards so they are facing the gums.
• Focus only on cleaning one or two teeth at a time, not the entire mouth.
• Firmly move the brush back and forth – apply firm, yet gentle pressure to the brush.
• Focus on getting the bristles to brush between the teeth as plaque accumulates in these areas.
• Clean the entire tooth, including the back, front and tops of the teeth.
• Brush at least twice a day.

Ask our dental hygienist to show you how to properly brush your teeth during your next dental exam.

What Toothpaste Should I Be Using?

Any toothpaste that contains fluoride in it is good for you. Our dental team can provide you with toothpaste recommendations.

Do Whitening Toothpastes Really Make Your Teeth Whiter?

Many toothpastes available claim to help brighten and whiten your smile. While you may see some results from using this type of toothpaste, chances are you won’t see a dramatic change.

Professional teeth whitening is your best option if you want a brighter and whiter smile. Not only will you see you get better results, but you are less likely to experience dental problems. Contact Pike & Valega, DDS to learn more about professional teeth whitening or ask about it during your next dental exam.

Does a Cracked Tooth Need To Be Removed?

Several treatment options are available for cracked or broken teeth. The type of treatment used will depend upon how fast you seek treatment, the health of the tooth and gums, and how the tooth is broken.

Some treatment options include dental fillings, root canals and dental crowns.

For severely cracked or broken teeth, removal is almost always the only option. If the tooth needs to be removed, you can replace it with a dental implant or bridge.

If you have a cracked or broken tooth, contact Pike & Valega, DDS to schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options.

How Often Do I Have To Visit the Dentist?

How often you need to schedule regular dental exams will depend upon your oral health. Typically, patients with good oral health and aren’t at risk for developing gum disease or other dental problems only need a dental exam every six months. Patients at risk for gum disease and other dental problems may need to come in more frequently.

Our dental team can provide you with a better understanding of how often you should be seeing a dentist for a dental exam. Call our office or ask about it at your next regularly scheduled exam.

What Is the Best Way To Floss Your Teeth?

Just like with brushing, it is important that you properly floss your teeth. When you properly floss, gently scrape in between the teeth and remove the sticky plaque that has built up.

Some tips to help you properly floss your teeth include:

• Gently scrape the floss along the sides of your teeth.
• Make sure you are flossing both sides of the teeth – Each time you pull the floss between the teeth, you should be cleaning both the left and right sides.
• Using waxed dental floss can help you get in those tight spaces where teeth may be crowded or overlapping.
• Make sure you floss between all your teeth.
• Use a new section of dental floss for each area you clean – You should be using enough dental floss that you are able to use a clean portion each time you clean in between the teeth.

Not sure you’re flossing properly? The dental team at Pike & Valega, DDS can help. During your next dental exam, our dental team can show you the proper way to floss.