Frequently Asked Questions:

Why do I need a Root Canal?
There are several reasons why you may need a Root Canal. The most common are:
Trauma- A physical blow to a tooth or a constant striking by a tooth in the opposite jaw that traumatizes the tooth.
Physical Irritation- Deep decay or a very large filling. Regardless of the initial cause, the tooth pulp becomes irritated and an abscess (infection) occurs. Bacteria from your saliva grow within the tooth pulp, causing pressure and pain. In some cases your face may swell. Eventually the pulp dies, causing the bone around the tooth to be destroyed.

What's going to happen?
Once it has been determined that Root Canal treatment is necessary, you will be scheduled for one or more appointments. It's important that you keep this appointments, to prevent delays in treatment and healing. It's also essential that you take all antibiotics and medications prescribed, to hasten healing and reduce swelling.

Why does the pulp need to be removed?
When the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result. Certain byproducts of the infection can injure your jaw bones. Without treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.

How long will the restored tooth last?
Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums. However, regular checkups are necessary. As long as the root(s) of a treated tooth are nourished by the tissues around it, your tooth will remain healthy.

What are the signs of Gum Disease?
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth * Red, swollen or tender gums * Gums that have receded or shrunken away from your teeth * Pus between you teeth when you press your gums with your finger * Pain when chewing * Calculus or tartar buildup * Teeth that seem loose or that change position * Changes in your bite * Bad breath or a chronic bad taste in your mouth * Teeth that are overly sensitive to hot and cold.
If you have any or some of these symptoms, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.

How can I prevent Gum Disease?
Brush your teeth well twice a day- This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay. Choose products that bear the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, your assurance that they have met the ADA's standards for safety and effectiveness. The ADA reviews all advertising claims for any product bearing the Seal. The Seal on a product is an assurance for consumers and dentists against misleading or untrue statements concerning a product's safety and effectiveness.
Clean between your teeth every day- Cleaning between your teeth with floss or interdental cleaners removes bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach. Early gum disease can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist how to use them properly, to avoid injuring your gums.
Eat a balanced diet- Choose a variety of foods from the basic food groups, such as breads, cereals and other grain products; fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish; and dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt. Limit between-meal snacks.
Visit your dentist regularly- It is important to have regular dental checkups, and professional cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal diseases.

What method of Tooth Whitening do you use?
Our office uses the traditional tooth whitening methods and the new and revolutionary Zoom®. Whiter teeth, in about one hour. It's that simple. Years of yellowing as well as harsh staining from coffee, cigarettes, and red wine are almost magically erased in the time it takes to get a haircut, a manicure or lunch. In fact, we have clinical studies which prove that the Zoom whitening treatment resulted in an average improvement of 8+ shades whiter!

How does Zoom work?
The Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening treatment consists of a gentle hydrogen-peroxide whitening gel activated by a special gas plasma "light."* The gel and light were both developed by Zoom, Inc. and are available exclusively at Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening Centers or the offices of Zoom Associated Dentists. Unlike traditional bleaching methods, with Zoom there's no fuss or mess and no gels or trays to take home. All you have to do is sit back and relax while the Zoom dental professionals do the rest.

What does the Zoom procedure look like?
1. Your gums and mouth are protected with isolation materials and a "Before" picture is taken.
2. The Zoom whitening gel is professionally applied and activated by the light source.
3. After three 20-minute applications over a one-hour period, your whitening is completed and your "After" picture is taken.
4. You rinse. You smile. Wow!

Will it hurt?
The process is normally completely painless. A very small percentage of people may experience a minor dull ache following the procedure. Taking an analgesic almost always resolves the feeling. It is best to avoid very hot or very cold drinks for the first 24 hours if there is any tooth sensitivity.

How long does it last?
Your teeth are as individual and unique as you are and therefore, your actual results may vary. However in general, Zoom whitening results can last up to 2 years assuming good hygiene and reasonable exposure to staining foods or beverages.

What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are form-fitted shells that are permanently affixed to the front of your teeth They are as hard or harder than your own enamel, and resist stains and abrasion far better. They can be the ultimate in a cosmetic make-over, because they can solve many common cosmetic problems: chipped, gapped, stained and mis-aligned teeth, among others. They require at least three visits to complete.

What can veneer be used for?
Veneers can be used to correct the size, shape, color and alignment of teeth. If your smile suffers from any of these characteristics, then you may be a candidate for porcelain veneers.

How much tooth structure is removed to place the veneers?
A thin layer, about 0.5 millimeter, is removed. the layer of tooth structure needs to be removed in order to make room for the porcelain. This allows us to make the teeth the proper contour without them being too bulky or unnatural appearing.

How should I care for my veneered teeth?
Dr. Valdes will discuss any care with you in detail during your appointment. Brush and floss as normal, but avoid biting down on hard objects (such as your fingernails) or using your teeth as tools. Bonding and veneers aren't as strong as your natural enamel and may more easily chip or fracture.

Will my newly veneered teeth stain?
Any teeth - even cosmetically treated ones - can be stained by tobacco and certain foods and drinks. Veneers, though, are more resistant to stain than bonded or bleached teeth. To avoid stains, shun tobacco products, coffee, tea, red wine, and heavily colored foods. (Colored toothpastes aren't a problem.)

How are Veneers different from Fillings or Crowns?
A small composite resin filling is used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacing or repair. A full Crown is indicated when a tooth has had Root Canal treatment or when a substantial amount of the entire tooth structure (enamel) has been lost. A Porcelain Veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of a tooth needs a "face lift." Dr. Valdes will explain the most adequate procedure for you during your visit.