Dental FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Care

Dentistry is not what it used to be. Technology and techniques have greatly improved over the years. Procedures that once took several hours may take just half the time now. Better tools have taken away much of the discomfort of dentistry, leaving you with a quick, comfortable, and safe treatment.

We believe that knowledge is power. Below are some of the more common questions we hear in our office. Go ahead and take a look – you may be surprised by some of the answers!

What should I do if I have a dental emergency?

If you are a patient of record, please call us for instructions on how to contact the doctor. If you are a new patient, please call us during business hours – we will do everything we can to see you the same day, if possible. If your situation is life-threatening, you should get medical help immediately. For more information, visit our Dental Emergencies page.

What if I have a broken tooth?

If you have broken or cracked a tooth, call us immediately to set up an appointment. The sooner we see you, the more likely we will be able to save the tooth.

I have a broken filling – what should I do?

Call us as soon as you suspect that you have broken a dental filling to set up an appointment. The sooner we can get to it, the better chance we have of saving the tooth.

What do I do if I knock a tooth out?

If you or your child has knocked out a tooth (avulsion), gently rinse (but don’t rub or touch) the tooth with milk or water. Be careful not to touch the root of the tooth. Keep the tooth moist in a glass of milk, water, spit, or the patient’s mouth (if possible) until you can be seen. Call us immediately at Brian H. Snyder, D.D.S. Phone Number 954-753-4101 for instructions and an appointment – the sooner we see you, the more likely we can re-implant the permanent tooth.

What do I do if I’m afraid to go to the dentist?

You are not alone! We see patients every day who have anxiety about dental work. Luckily, there are many ways that we can help alleviate dental anxiety. Often it is enough to simply talk about the specific fears you have. This allows us to thoroughly explain the procedures and treatments and prepare you with any needed accommodations. Earphones are another great tool for managing dental anxiety. And, if needed, we can discuss anesthesia options.

What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns are fabricated with precision in a lab to mimic the look and function of real teeth. They are needed when not enough natural teeth remain to fulfill chewing and aesthetic functions. The most common conditions requiring dental crowns are root canal treatment and cracked, broken, or heavily decayed teeth.

How long do veneers last?

While not permanent, veneers do last quite a long time. They can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years when properly cared for.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants are used to replace missing adult teeth. They function just like real teeth, allowing patients to eat and smile just like they would with a natural tooth. The implant is screwed into the jawbone, allowed to “osseointegrate” with the bone, and then a crown is placed on top. If properly maintained, dental implants can last a lifetime!

Are dental x-rays safe?

Dental X-rays have one of the lowest radiation exposure rates of all medical imaging. In addition to that, we always do our best to minimize exposure, only performing X-rays when absolutely necessary and always employing protective measures to minimize exposure.

Why is oral hygiene important?

Oral hygiene is the most important step in protecting your teeth for life, and it may even help to reduce the risk of disease around the body. Poor dental health is linked to many different conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Brushing twice a day and flossing once is all you need to stay on top of oral hygiene at home.

Do I still need to floss?

Yes, flossing is the ONLY way to remove bacteria and food particles from between teeth, which is a very common area for decay to set in.

How often should I visit the dentist?

You should be seen every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning. In some cases, as with periodontal disease, we may recommend that you visit us every three months.

What causes sensitive teeth?

There are many different causes of sensitive teeth – some are benign, and some require attention, such as tooth decay, exposed roots, infection, and gum disease. The only way to know for sure is through an oral exam in our office.

What causes tooth decay and cavities?

Poor oral hygiene, not seeing the dentist regularly, and sugary and acidic foods and beverages are responsible for most cavities.

Are teeth alive?

Yes! While the crown of the tooth is made up of hard tissue, the inside of the tooth (the “roots”) has live nerves.

Have a question that isn’t listed? Please call us at Brian H. Snyder, D.D.S. Phone Number 954-753-4101 for more information!