FAQ

Are your office hours flexible?

Yes, we have very flexible hours! Monday – Friday  10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. & Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

What is dentistry?

Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.

Who is a dentist?

A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Your dentist has completed at least eight years of schooling, and received either a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree, or a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree. Your dentist has received the proper education and training needed to treat dental disease and help maintain oral health.
Other specializations include:

  • Endodontics (root canals)
  • Oral and maxillofacial (including pathology, radiology, and surgery)
  • Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
  • Periodontics (gum disease)
  • Prosthodontics (implants)

Why is visiting the dentist so important?

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:

  • Prevents tooth decay
  • Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
  • Prevents bad breath – brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly will help reduce the amount of bad-breath causing bacteria in your mouth
  • Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence
  • Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks and tobacco
  • Strengthens your teeth so that you can enjoy a healthy, functional and beautiful smile

My teeth feel fine. Do I still need to see a dentist?

Your teeth may feel fine, but it’s still important to see the dentist regularly because problems can exist without you knowing. Your smile’s appearance is important and your dentist can help keep your smile healthy and looking beautiful. With so many advances in dentistry, you no longer have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth. Today’s dentists offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence, including:

  • Professional teeth whitening
  • Fillings that mimic the appearance of natural teeth
  • Tooth replacement and smile enhancements

What should I look for when choosing the right dentist for me?

Choosing a dentist who “clicks” with you and your family is important.

  • Is the appointment schedule convenient?
  • Is the office easy to get to and close by?
  • Does the office appear to be clean and orderly
  • Do you feel comfortable and at peace in the dental office?
  • Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
  • Does the dentist explain techniques for good oral health?
  • Does the dentist actively participate in continuing education?
  • Is your dentist a member of the ODA (Ontario Dental Assocation)?

How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups?

  • ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss at least once,preferably before bedtime
  • Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and ask your dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities.
  • Avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque which can lead to cavities) and avoid tobacco (this can stain your teeth, cause gum disease and can eventually lead to oral cancer).
  • Don’t be afraid to brush your tongue! By brushing your tongue, you will remove food particles and reduce the amount of plaque-causing bacteria. Tongue brushing also helps keep your breath fresh. A tongue scraper is another useful tool to keep your tongue clean and fresh
  • Be sure to schedule your dental exam and hygiene appointment

At what age should I start taking my child to see the dentist?

Children can first see a dentist as early as six-months-old and it is usually recommended no later than one-year-old. During this time, your child’s baby teeth will be coming in and we can examine the health of your child’s first few teeth. After the first visit, be sure to schedule regular checkups every six months

How often should I see the dentist?

Children, teens, and adults should see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months in general. However, this recall interval is lengthened for patients at low risk of dental disease and conversely, is more frequent for patients at high risk for tooth decay or gum disease. You doctor will help determine how often you should visit the dentist for regular checkups.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth and having your teeth assessed during a dental exam.

What is a filling?

A filling is a synthetic material that is used to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because your dentist will numb your mouth with an anesthetic if needed. Fillings are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure to talk to Dr. Taki about what type is best for you and your teeth.

How often should I brush my teeth?

Brushing your teeth should be done at least two times a day.
Brushing keeps your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy by removing bacteria-causing plaque. It is also recommended that you use a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste that contains fluoride when you brush your teeth. You should spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom teeth, and remember to brush your tongue– it will help keep your breath smelling fresh!

When should I change my toothbrush?

Your toothbrush will eventually wear out and may need to be changed approximately every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently.

What is gum disease?

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist regularly will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease.
Common signs of gum disease:

  • Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
  • Extreme tooth sensitivity
  • Receding gum line
  • Abscessed teeth

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

How do I schedule my next checkup?

Simply call our office! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.