Frequently Asked Questions

Bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be humiliating and caused by a variety of factors, including the time of day (morning breath), poor oral hygiene habits, gum disease, cavities, and certain foods. If you have bad breath, practice proper oral hygiene habits, increase your water intake, quit smoking (if you smoke), and visit your dentist regularly.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day to avoid plaque buildup. If your gums are sensitive, use an ADA-approved soft bristle toothbrush and brush at a 45-degree angle to make sure you clean hard-to-reach places. You also want to gently brush your tongue to prevent bad breath. We also recommend that you floss between teeth at least once a day to help clean the gum line and spaces between teeth.

While there has been some concern about amalgam fillings over the years, the ADA deems them safe, and at least 75% of dentists across the U.S. use them. While these fillings do contain mercury, they do not contain a high enough amount of mercury to cause damage to your health.

Most people need to visit the dentist for routine cleanings at least twice a year. However, your dentist may recommend more visits depending on your oral health. At your exam, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth for damage and decay, perform x-rays, clean your teeth, polish your teeth, offer fluoride treatments, advise you on diet, and discuss any oral health concerns.