Dental Quiz

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quizYou’ve had your teeth for quite some time now. Assuming you still have your own teeth. Teeth are made to last a lifetime and thanks to advances in dental care many people’s teeth do. Take your Livonia, MI dentist, Dr. James Stewart’s, short Friday dental quiz and see how you fare.

True or False

  1. Tor F: It is okay to brush your teeth only once a day.
  2. T or F: Research indicates there is no advantage to using mouthwash.
  3. T or F: Everyone’s mouth gets dry sometimes.
  4. T or F: There is no reason to see a dentist unless you have a toothache or other oral health problem.

Answers

  1. False: While brushing your teeth once a day is better than not brushing at all, to reap the full benefits of oral care–in other words, if you want to keep cavities away–brushing twice a day for two minutes is recommended.
  2. False: While mouthwash should not be relied upon as the sole means of your home oral health program, research indicates it plays an important complimentary role. During a research study plaque problems decreased by 51 percent for participants who rinsed with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing and flossing, compared with 12 percent of participants that rinsed with a placebo. Ninety-eight percent of participants with gingivitis showed an improvement when adding an antiseptic mouthwash to their regimen compared with only 30 percent who were using the placebo.
  3.  True: Occasionally everyone’s mouth feels dry. However, if you suffer from chronic dry mouth proper home dental routine and dental visits are of the utmost importance. Without the benefits of saliva which helps fight tooth decay and keeps your mouth clean and moist, oral health problems can arise. Also, if using a mouthwash, choose one that is alcohol free. The use of alcohol can contribute to dry mouth.
  4. False:  If you wait until you’re experiencing pain to see a dentist then the problem is already serious. Regularly scheduled dental appointments for x-rays, checkups, and professional cleanings are to prevent serious problems such as cavities or gum disease from developing.

About Dr. Stewart

James R. Stewart, Jr, DDS, PC and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.