Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): General Dentistry

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth.  An x-ray examination may reveal:

• Small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)

• Infections in the bone

• Periodontal (gum) disease

• Abscesses or cysts

• Developmental abnormalities

• Some types of tumors

   

Many people do not see a dentist on a regular basis.  They only go when they have a problem. This is known as “crisis treatment” versus “preventative treatment.”  While these patients may feel they are saving money, it often ends up costing much more in dollars and time.  This is because many dental problems do not have symptoms until they reach the advanced stages of the disease process.  An example is tooth decay.  It is typical to hear, “nothing hurts… I don’t have any problems.”

Tooth decay often does not hurt until it gets close to the nerve of the tooth.  It is not uncommon to see a patient with a huge cavity who has never felt a thing.  The dentist can usually detect a cavity 3-4 years before it develops any symptoms.  This early detection can help you prevent root canal treatment.