logo Ali Mogharei, DDS
2222 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 202
Santa Monica, CA 90404
310.829.2224
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Frequently Asked Questions


Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use?
A: The brand of the toothbrush is not as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. A soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended because medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and contribute to recession of the gums, and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. It's unnecessary to "scrub" the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings. back to top »

 

Q: Is one toothpaste better than others?
A: Generally, no. However, it's advisable to use a fluoride containing toothpaste to decrease the incidence of dental decay. We recommend our patients use what tastes good to them as long as it contains fluoride. back to top »

 

Q: How often should I floss?
A: Flossing of the teeth once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy. This is important in light of research linking gum disease to numerous other systemic diseases including heart disease and strokes. back to top »

 

Q: What's the difference between a "crown" and a "cap"?
A: These are restorations to repair a severely broken tooth by covering all or most of the tooth after removing old fillings, fractured tooth structure, and all decay. The restoration material is made of gold, porcelain, composites, or even stainless steel. Dentists refer to all these restorations as "crowns", however patients sometimes call them "caps". back to top »

 

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 natural teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and is easily removed by the patient. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures. back to top »

 

Q: What about "silver" fillings versus "white" fillings?
A: Although the U.S. Public Health Service issued a report in 1993 stating there is no health reason not to use amalgam (silver fillings), more patients today are requesting "white" or tooth-colored composite fillings. We also prefer tooth-colored fillings because they "bond" to the tooth structure and therefore help strengthen a tooth weakened by decay. White fillings are also usually less sensitive to temperature, and they look better. However, white fillings cannot be used in every situation, and if a tooth is very badly broken down, a crown will usually be necessary and provide better overall satisfaction for the patient. back to top »

 

Q: Do I need to have a root canal just because I have a crown?
A: No. While most teeth which have had root canal treatments do need crowns for strength and to return them to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal. back to top »

 

Q: How do you sterilize your instruments?
A: Upon completion of every procedure all instruments are cleaned and autoclaved. Each operatory is thoroughly disinfected to prevent any transfer of infectious diseases. We always clean as if our Mother were going to be the next person to sit in the chair. back to top »

 

Q: How effective are over-the-counter teeth whitening products?
A: There are many solutions to whiten your teeth from home that can be purchased from your dentist or over-the-counter. Bleaching solutions contain peroxide which actually bleaches the tooth enamel. These whitening products typically rely on carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent usually available in different concentrations from 10% to 22%. Although many teeth whitening products have proven to lighten tooth color, only dentist-dispensed home-use 10% carbamide peroxide tray-applied gels carry the ADA Seal. If you encounter sensitivity during treatment, consult your dentist about the side effects of whitening treatment. back to top »

 

Q: How does my diet during pregnancy affect my baby's teeth?
A: Your diet during the nine months of pregnancy directly impacts the development of your baby -- including teeth. Because your baby's teeth begin to develop during the second trimester of pregnancy, it is important that you receive recommended amounts of calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins A, C, and D. Consult your physician and dentist for information about proper diet nutrient levels during your pregnancy. back to top »

 

Q: How come my jaw clicks (pops), and what can I do about it?
A: According to the ADA, over fifteen percent of Americans suffer from chronic facial pain. Common symptoms include pain around the ear and clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth. The complex system of muscles, ligaments, and bones that comprise the Temporomandibular joint (jaw) can cause facial pain and discomfort or popping when a problem prevents this system from functioning properly. There are several ways a TMJ disorder can be treated; however, proper diagnosis is a critical step before treatment. Your dentist will recommend what type of treatment is needed for your particular problem or recommend that you be referred to a specialist. Treatment may involve a series of steps. The step-by-step plan is advantageous because a non-invasive treatment may be possible to treat a TMJ disorder. back to top »

 

Q: What do I do to stop grinding my teeth?
A: Night-time grinding can have a negative impact on your oral health. Teeth grinders often experience a sore jaw and dull headaches, sometimes leading to migraines. Severe grinding can also cause teeth to become loose, worn, or fractured. Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth while you sleep or recommend other therapies of a more permanent nature. Stress does make grinding worse so reducing your stress levels will often lessen the grinding. back to top »

 

Q: Why are x-rays necessary and are they dangerous?
A: X-rays are necessary because many diseases exist beneath the visible oral tissue and cannot be detected without the use of radiographs. A radiograph is a valuable tool for the dentist to safely and accurately detect hidden abnormalities. X-rays pose a far smaller risk to your health than undetected and untreated dental problems. back to top »

 

You can find more information at Dental Health Online.