Dental Tips & FAQs

Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining good oral health. They allow us to catch issues early, provide preventive care, and keep your smile in top shape. Here’s a general guideline:

• For most people: We recommend scheduling a dental cleaning and exam every 6 months to prevent plaque buildup and other issues.
• For those with dental concerns: Patients with gum disease or past dental issues may need more frequent visits.
• For children and teenagers: As their teeth and mouths are developing, more frequent check-ups might be necessary.

Your schedule will be based on your specific oral health needs, which you can discuss with Dr. Sproul during your appointment.

At Sonja Sproul Dentistry, we aim for transparency with treatment costs. After a thorough examination, we’ll provide a detailed treatment plan with options. We offer financing through Care Credit and will work with your insurance provider to maximize your dental benefit coverage.

Yes! We provide a gentle and welcoming environment for kids and families:

• Special “first visits” to introduce babies and parents to dental care
• A focus on educating parents and familiarizing children with healthy oral care habits
• Fun rewards, including xylitol suckers and a treasure chest of goodies, to make each visit enjoyable

We aim to make every child’s visit a positive experience, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Gum disease can develop without noticeable symptoms, but common signs include:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Loose teeth or receding gums

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us for an evaluation and treatment plan.

If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. In the meantime:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• Gently floss to remove any trapped debris
• Use a cold compress to ease swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as needed
• Call us immediately for an emergency appointment.

A smile makeover is a personalized treatment plan designed to enhance the appearance of your smile. This can include a combination of cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, and even orthodontics. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and recommend the best options to achieve your ideal smile.

Your diet plays a key role in maintaining a healthy smile. Eating a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, helps strengthen your teeth and gums. Some tips include:

• Eat more alkaline foods like leafy greens, nuts, and certain fruits (bananas, apples) to help neutralize mouth acids and improve pH balance.
• Limit sugary snacks and beverages to prevent plaque buildup and decay.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

Maintaining a balanced pH in your mouth is crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. When your mouth becomes too acidic (low pH), it can lead to enamel erosion and an increased risk of cavities. To keep your mouth’s pH level healthy:

• Drink water regularly to neutralize acids.
• Avoid acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and sodas.
• Eat more alkaline foods like spinach, almonds, and broccoli.
• Incorporate Xylitol into your diet, especially after eating and drinking, to neutralize the pH of the mouth. Xylitol inhibits bacteria colonization and reduces the rate of acid formation, helping to minimize demineralization and breakdown of enamel.

By keeping your mouth’s pH balanced, you can protect your teeth and gums from damage and decay.

If you think you have a cavity, the first step is to talk to a dentist. Our team will confirm the diagnosis and recommend the proper treatment to stop further decay formation and restore the tooth to its ideal form and function.