1.What are the signs and symptoms of dental problems?
The first signs and symptoms of dental issues are bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, tooth sensitivity, redness, and mild or severe pain.
2.Why is it important to treat tooth decay in its early stages?
It is a common misconception that tooth decay starts from the tooth’s centre. It actually starts when the enamel, which is the tooth’s outer layer, is exposed to acids produced by plaque bacteria. If left untreated, the decay can progress through the dentin layer and right to the pulp of the tooth. This decay can result in cavities, abscesses, and even teeth loss.
3.Do you follow any methods to make the dental processes painless and comfortable?
At 4 Squares Dentistry, we take maximum effort to make our patients comfortable during the dental procedures. Our dentists in Gowrivakkam and Medavakkam are experts in choosing the right approach to minimising pain and discomfort during dental treatment. We use conscious sedation, topical anaesthetics, and the latest dental anaesthetics to ensure that our patients feel completely relaxed.
4.How should I handle a dental emergency?
A non-life-threatening condition like a chipped or cracked tooth, a mild tooth pain, or mild bleeding from the gums cannot be classified as a dental emergency. A broken jaw, excruciating pain due to a dental abscess, a dislodged tooth, or a lost filling are more serious conditions that require immediate dental care. These are situations when you should immediately contact your dentist.
5.Do other health issues affect dental health?
Bleeding gums, bad breath, chronic mouth ulcers and tooth sensitivity can be symptoms of underlying general health issues. This is why we stress the importance of making it mandatory to have an annual dental checkup for adults and biannual checkup for children.
6.Is brushing alone enough to take care of my oral health?
No. Brushing will clean your teeth and make you feel fresh. But, it will not prevent tooth decay or gum disease, as plaque cannot be completely removed only by brushing. You also need to floss your teeth to remove plaque regularly.
7.How should I choose a good toothpaste and toothbrush?
You can use any toothpaste that has fluoride in it. A toothbrush with soft bristles is ideal.
8.How often should I get my teeth cleaned by a dentist?
It is most ideal to get your teeth cleaned twice a year by a professional dentist. The main objective of getting your teeth cleaned professionally is to remove the plaque within the base period for good oral health.
9.How can I prevent bleeding from my gums?
Bleeding and swollen gums are symptoms of gingivitis, a gum disease. The best way to treat bleeding gums is to brush and floss regularly. You should also visit your dentist to get the condition diagnosed and treated early.
10. I am wearing dentures. How often should I visit my dentist?
If you are wearing dentures, you may be at a lesser risk of dental decay. However, you should visit your dentist immediately if you face issues like ill-fitting dental appliances and mouth sores. If not, you should make an annual visit for a complete oral screening and a head and neck examination. Your dentist will also evaluate if your appliance needs to be fixed or replaced. An annual dental checkup will effectively prevent any big complications with your dentures.
11. Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental x-rays are very safe for children and adults as exposure to radiation is extremely low. However, pregnant ladies should avoid dental x-rays because exposure to the radiation is unsafe for the fetus.
12. How important are regular dental visits?
Regular dental visits can help you maintain your oral health and hygiene. A routine checkup helps detect dental issues at an early stage and gives you enough time to rectify or reverse the problem before it worsens. By doing so, you also save yourself from incurring bigger expenses when you opt for crisis treatment.
13.How Does Segregation Help?
Segregation reduces the amount of waste that needs special handling and treatment. Effective segregation process prevents the mixture of medical waste like sharps with the general municipal waste. Prevents illegal reuse of certain components of medical waste like used syringes, needles and other plastics. Provides an opportunity for recycling certain components of medical waste like plastics after proper and thorough disinfection.
14.How Do You Segregate Biomedical Waste?
Biomedical waste should be segregated in colored coded paddle operated covered bins. Proper training should be given to the paramedical staff and waste handlers about the waste and how to match with colors. Practice should be made to segregate the bio medical waste at the point of generation Following are the high level stages involved in bio waste management 1.Biomedical waste collection and segregation 2.Biomedical waste storage and transportation 3.Biomedical waste disposal and treatment At our dental centre in Medavakkam and Gowrivakkam, we strictly ensure that the Bio-Medical Waste is disposed off in the designated area and as per the Protocols of segregation and disposal of the same as prescribed by Indian Dental Association .Our waste disposal system are monitored and controlled by Licenced waste management company.
1. How often should I have a dental examination?
As per the American Dental Association guidelines, it is advisable to have a dental examination once every six months. A thorough oral examination allows your dentist to look for any indicators of dental health issues like tooth decay, cavities, plaque, oral cancer, misalignment of teeth and bleeding gums.
2. What are the procedures of a dental checkup?
At 4 Squares Dentistry, we use advanced technological equipment like intraoral cameras, and digital x-rays to analyze and assess your oral health. We discuss the results with our patients and create a personalized treatment course based on their requirements.
3. What should I do if I have a dental emergency?
If you are wearing dentures, you may be at a lesser risk of dental decay. However, you should visit your dentist immediately if you face issues like ill-fitting dental appliances and mouth sores. If not, you should make an annual visit for a complete oral screening and a head and neck examination. Your dentist will also evaluate if your appliance needs to be fixed or replaced. An annual dental checkup will effectively prevent any big complications with your dentures.
4. What can I do to eliminate bad breath?
The dental term for bad breath is halitosis, and it is an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. There are various reasons why some people suffer from this condition even after brushing their teeth. The major reason for bad breath is the presence of microbial deposits between the teeth, on the gums and tongue and at the back of the oral cavity. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and cleaning the tongue every day can effectively ward off bad breath.
5. Is it advisable to use mouthwash daily?
What is sold as a mouthwash is nothing but a mild antiseptic that refreshes the mouth. There are many brands of mouthwashes available in the market. Although they are temporarily effective in combating bad breath, prolonged use of mouthwash is not advisable.
1. What is preventive dental care??
Preventive dental care encompasses everything you do to maintain oral health and avoid dental diseases. Activities like brushing, flossing, taking a healthy diet, and having a regular dental checkup comprise preventive dental care.
2. Why do dentists emphasise the importance of preventive dental care?
Preventive dental care is a smart way to take care of your oral health. It is much easier to make brushing and flossing a daily routine, rather than go for expensive reactive treatment after the onset of oral diseases. Regular dental examinations and dental cleaning also contribute to good oral care.
3. My teeth are very sensitive. What is the reason?
Pain and tooth sensitivity occurs when your teeth’s enamel is damaged, thus exposing the vulnerable inner layers. If you have mild or severe tooth decay, and other problems like grinding, clenching of the teeth and bite problems, your teeth can become very sensitive to hot and cold food.
1. What is the minimum age for a child’s first dental visit?
Your child’s first dental visit should be scheduled as soon as his/her first tooth erupts or around the time of their first birthday.
2. What is the maximum age for a child to visit a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dental visits are mandatory until the age of 14. When the child reaches this age, all the permanent teeth would have grown out. It will also be easy to commence any orthodontic procedures if your child has any dental issues.
3. When is the right age to start brushing my child’s teeth?
You should introduce your child to brushing right after the eruption of the first tooth. However, please ensure that your child uses a very minute amount of toothpaste.
1. What is a Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is an effective way to extract dead tissues and debris from the tooth cavity. This procedure saves the tooth from unnecessary extraction, strengthens it further and makes it more durable. The procedure may require more than two visits to your dental clinic.
2. How do root canal surgery and root canal therapy differ?
4 Squares Dentistry specialises in both root canal therapy and root canal surgery. To perform a simple root canal procedure, your endodontist will gain access to the root canal by opening the crown of your tooth. However, in some cases, the infection will spread beyond the tooth’s root canal. Your endodontist will perform minor oral surgery to gain access to the root canal through the gums for such cases. This is called root canal surgery.
3. Are there other options for root canal therapy?
At 4 Squares Dentistry, we offer options like Mechanical, Laser Root and Rotary canal procedures. Call us or visit us at our dental clinic in Medavakkam for more details about each procedure’s advantages and disadvantages.
4. Is root canal procedure painful?
Advances in the field of dental medicine have made root canal procedures a virtually pain-free experience. In fact, the treatment actually relieves the pain caused by the infected root canal, which can be more intense than the procedure’s mild discomfort. Our endodontists have a great understanding of a patient’s pain management. You can rest assured that they will handle it with the utmost professionalism.
5. How long does a root canal procedure take?
A simple root canal procedure will be complete in one visit that may last for a couple of hours. If the problem is severe, you will likely require a couple of visits to complete the procedure.
6. Why does my tooth require a crown after the root canal procedure?
After a root canal treatment, your sealed tooth needs a crown to restore its look and feel to function like a natural tooth. It also strengthens the tooth and protects it from further damage.
7. How long will a tooth last after a root canal treatment?
The repaired tooth’s longevity depends vastly on the patient’s general health. It will also remain as good as new as long as the person’s body has the physiological ability to repair the damaged tissues and bone.
8. How long will it take for my tooth to heal after a root canal procedure?
Our endodontists will prescribe antibiotics to promote the quick healing of your tooth. You should be able to resume your routine duties after a day’s rest. Depending on the infection’s severity, the tissue may feel a little sensitive for several days.
9. Is it possible to avoid root canal therapy?
Without treatment, the infection in your root canal can spread beyond the roots, jaw tissues and bone. Apart from causing further complications, you may experience excruciating pain and discomfort. Hence, it is advisable to consult a specialist before the dental issue worsens. The only way to avoid a root canal treatment is to prevent your teeth from developing a root canal infection. That is possible only with proper dental hygiene.
10. Will a root canal therapy last forever?
Root canal therapy’s success depends on the patient’s general and oral health and oral hygiene. A non-surgical, simple, root canal procedure might not be effective if the infection is located deep in the root. Such infections require surgical therapy for the effects of the treatment to be long-lasting.
1. What is the right age to start using braces?
Advancements in technology have made it possible for adults to use dental braces, although it is most commonly used in children. The ideal age for children to start using braces is at 11-13 years.
2. What are the types of orthodontic appliances available?
There are two types of orthodontic appliances- fixed and removable. Braces and brackets are fixed orthodontic appliances. Removal appliances are traditionally used for treating bad bites.
3. For how long must children and adults use orthodontic appliances?
The period of orthodontic treatment varies from person to person. The ideal duration is from 12 to 30 months. Orthodontic treatment may take a longer duration for adults because the facial bones have stopped growing.
4.What are the most effective types of braces?
Invisalign are the most effective type of braces because they can be more comfortable than traditional braces. Invisalign are slightly more expensive than other braces and are widely available
1. Is full-mouth restoration painful?
At 4 Squares Dentistry, we make every effort to keep you comfortable. We use a local anaesthetic to numb the mouth. At times, we may apply a general anaesthetic to reduce pain. If the patient is anxious, IV sedation can be utilised to keep the person calm.
2. What material do you use for a dental bridge?
We construct dental bridges with many materials. Gold alloys and other non-precious metals are common. Often Zirconia is bonded with the metal or a combination of metals.
3. What can I do to take care of a dental bridge?
Since a dental bridge depends upon the neighbouring natural teeth for support, it is essential to maintain it. Follow a strict routine of brushing followed by flossing to take care of your dental bridge.
1. What are the benefits of using porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are very durable and easy to fit in the teeth, for they require very little pre-preparation work. They also give the teeth a very natural and healthy appearance.
2. How long will my veneers last?
With proper maintenance and care, dental veneers can last for at least 10 to 15 years, after which they will need replacement.
3. Should I wear my clear aligners throughout the day?
Yes, we recommend that you wear your Invisalign tray throughout the day or for at least 22 hours per day.
4.How long will it take for my teeth to become aligned?
The alignment of the teeth for patients using Invisaligners differs with the complexity of the case. It can take a few months or more than a year.
1. How does laser dentistry work?
Lasers are energy in the form of lights in varying wavelengths. For each surface of the teeth like gums, enamel or tissue, a different wavelength is used for treatment. The surface absorbs the lasers for effective treatment. At 4 Squares Dentistry, our dentists are skilled and experienced to handle each laser frequency with adeptness.
2. Does the laser hurt?
All laser dentistry treatments are painless; that is why they don’t require anaesthesia. Some patients may feel minor discomfort during the procedure. It dissipates fairly quickly.
3.How long will a laser dental treatment take?
Compared to traditional dental procedures, the time taken for laser dentistry is 40 to 50% less. That said, the exact time of the procedure is dependent on two factors - the severity of the condition and the nature of the treatment. The doctor will give you an estimate of how long it will take after completing your evaluation.
4.Do laser dental treatments cost more than traditional?
Laser dental treatments are competitively priced. The expense is often the same as conventional treatments or just slightly more. How much a laser dentistry procedure will cost depends upon the number of teeth to be treated, the condition’s severity and total sittings required. We advise you to consult our doctors at 4 Squares Dentistry to get a fairer idea of our treatment prices!
1. Why do I require dental implants?
Dental implants are a blessing for anyone who is coping with the loss of several teeth. Such a loss can cause speech impediments and prevent them from speaking coherently or eating effortlessly. Furthermore, it can also dent their self-confidence. Dental implants are the doorway to renewed confidence and peace of mind.
2. Are dental implants better than traditional restorative dental appliances?
Yes, dental implants are vastly different from traditional restorative appliances. Traditional appliances are far more inconvenient, uncomfortable and even embarrassing. Dental implants are discrete and function much better than traditional dental solutions.
3.How will I know if I am an ideal candidate for implants?
Before recommending dental implants, our dentists will make a thorough review of your medical and dental history. If your mouth is not ideal for implants, they will suggest other solutions such as bone grafting.
4.What type of anesthesia is used during the procedure?
At our clinic, we use local anesthesia to numb your oral cavity before the dental implant procedure.
5.Do dental implants require special care?
Caring for your dental implants ensures extra durability. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups will guarantee that they serve you well for many years.
1. How is oral cancer diagnosed?
Commonly oral cancers are detected after a patient experiences symptoms. In a few cases, the doctor may detect precancerous lesions in the mouth. We perform a physical exam of the neck and head to diagnose. We conduct blood tests, imaging tests, dental exams or a biopsy too.
2. How is oral cancer treated?
Surgery is the only way to treat oral cancer. This is followed by chemotherapy or radiation. Physical therapy, targeted drug therapy, and focused pain management are also utilised.
3.Are there side effects of oral cancer treatment?
Dry mouth, weight loss, nausea, constipation, fatigue, taste change and diarrhoea are some side effects of oral cancer treatment. Some modification to the appearance and function are also expected.
4.Which doctor to consult for oral cancer?
If you suspect oral cancer, visit a dentist or a physician. They will refer you to the required otolaryngologist. Once oral cancer is diagnosed, a specialised head and neck surgeon becomes your primary doctor.
5.What can you do to reduce oral cancer risk?
Limit alcohol intake, particularly hard liquor. Stop all tobacco use, including cigars and pipes. Lessen exposure to the sun through sunscreens and lip balms. Always practice coitus and eat nutritious food.
1. What is tooth extraction?
The removal of infected, damaged or wisdom teeth is called a tooth extraction. In the procedure, the entire tooth starting from the alveolar bone to the crown is removed.
2. Will tooth extraction hurt?
We sedate our patients during tooth extraction. Therefore, there is no pain. Furthermore, some teeth extractions become necessary because the nerves are dying, which takes away their capacity to send pain signals.
3.Does tooth extraction differ from wisdom tooth surgery?
Wisdom teeth require oral surgery because they are impacted or haven’t come out of the gum line entirely. Tooth extraction, on the other hand, may simply pull a tooth without any surgery.
4.How long does it take for gum to heal after oral surgery?
Typically, the gum heals within 7 to 14 days of the surgery. At times, it may take longer based on the severity of the surgery and teeth location.
5.Why is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth?
The average mouth has just enough space to hold 28 teeth. Wisdom teeth add four more, making it an uncomfortable fit and sometimes painful. That is why it is necessary to remove the third molars through oral surgery.
