Our dentists and team at Amr M Enaya DDS Inc know that many people have questions about their oral health and dental treatments. We have provided a list of answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear in our office. If you have further questions, or to make an appointment with Dr. Amr M. Enaya, please feel free to contact our office at 209-744-9955. We will be happy to provide you with additional information and to help you schedule an appointment at our dental office in Galt, California.
What is dentistry?
Dentistry is a field of medicine that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases related to the mouth, including your teeth, gums, and jaw. Your oral health can often have a significant impact on the health of your entire body, so we encourage you to visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your mouth remains healthy.
What is a dentist?
A dentist is a specialist who has received extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing oral health problems. Every dentist has received at least 8 years of schooling, and has completed either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Some dentists complete additional training in order to specialize in specific fields of dentistry, such as:
- Pediatric dentistry
- Endodontics
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
Why is visiting the dentist important?
Visiting the dentist regularly helps to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy. Regular dental care works to:
- Prevent tooth decay
- Prevent and protect against periodontal (gum) disease
- Strengthen your teeth so that you can continue enjoying a healthy smile
- Prevent bad breath
- Give you a beautiful smile
By visiting the dentist at least twice a year, you can save yourself time and money in the future, and avoid painful and damaging dental problems.
My teeth feel fine, do I still need to see the dentist?
Yes! Many dental problems can develop without you knowing it. Regular dental visits allow us to monitor your oral health and quickly provide treatments when you need them. You can also visit the dentist for cosmetic treatments that will improve your appearance and keep your smile looking healthy and beautiful.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
Choosing the right dentist for you and your family is important. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a dentist:
- Are their office hours and appointment scheduling convenient?
- Is the office easy to find and access?
- Does the office appear to be clean and well-organized?
- Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
- Do the dentist and team explain techniques for good oral health?
- Is information about treatment costs presented to you before you schedule a treatment?
- Is your dentist a member of the American Dental Association (ADA)?
How can I take care of my teeth in-between dental checkups?
Regular brushing and flossing are the key to maintaining a healthy smile.
Brush your teeth at least twice each day, and floss daily. Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. Remember to brush your tongue, as this will remove food particles, harmful plaque and bacteria; and will keep your breath fresh.
If you are interested in a fluoride rinse, ask our dentist to recommend a particular product for you.
Avoid sugary foods, and maintain a healthy, nutritious, and balanced diet.
When should my child start seeing the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children meet with a dentist as early as 6 months, and no later than 1 year of age. The dentist can examine your child’s emerging teeth and help you understand how to care for your child’s oral health as he or she develops. Schedule regular checkups every 6 months following your child’s initial appointment.
How often should I see the dentist?
You should visit the dentist at least once every 6 months. If you are at greater risk for periodontal disease, tooth decay, or oral cancer, we may recommend that you visit our office more often.
What is a cavity?
Cavities are small holes that form on your teeth due to tooth decay. They are caused by acid-producing bacteria, which eats away at tooth enamel. When left untreated, cavities can lead to more serious oral health problems, including tooth loss.
What is a filling?
Dental fillings are a restorative treatment used to repair damage caused by cavities. Fillings consist of silver, tooth-colored, or gold material, and are used to “fill in” the cavities to restore your tooth.
How often should I brush my teeth?
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled, ADA-approved toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste. It is especially important that you brush before bed. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean.
How often should I change my toothbrush?
Dentists recommend that you change your toothbrush every 3 months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, read the instructions on how frequently to change your toothbrush head. If you have gum disease, change your toothbrush every 4-6 weeks. If you’ve been sick, change your toothbrush as soon as possible.
What is gum disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection the gums and other oral tissues. It is caused by plaque and bacteria that have not been removed from the mouth. If untreated, it can cause gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Common signs of gum disease include:
- Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Receding gum line
- Abscessed teeth
- Loose teeth
- Pus between the teeth
- Tooth loss
- Changes in the fit of oral appliances
I have braces, do I still need to visit the dentist every 6 months?
Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that you visit the dentist regularly. Regular dental checkups can help remove food and debris caught in your braces so that your teeth remain clean and healthy during your orthodontic treatment.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Call Amr M Enaya DDS Inc at 209-744-9955! Our front desk staff will help you set up your next appointment at a time that is convenient for you. If you are new to our office, we will provide you with all the information you will need to prepare for your first appointment with our dentists.
