FAQ

Why is visiting the dentist so important?

Visiting the dentist regularly will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it helps prevents tooth decay, periodontal disease, bad breath, while giving you a more strong, attractive smile.

My teeth feel fine. Do I still need to see a dentist?

You shouldn’t wait until you have a problem, it’s important to schedule regular appointments with Dr. Kasper and our team of dental experts because problems can exist without you knowing.

What should I look for when choosing the right dentist for me?

During your first office visit, you should be able to determine whether the dentist is right for you. During your appointment, consider scheduling convenience, office location and cleanliness, and open communication about procedures and cost.

How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups?

Maintaining your oral health between visits is very important and includes always remembering to brush with fluoride toothpaste and floss your teeth at least two times a day (including your tongue!), avoid tobacco and foods with a lot of sugar and to schedule routine checkups at least every six months.

When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist?

The Canadian Dental Association encourages a dental assessment of infants within six months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age.

What happens during my child’s first visit to the dentist?

The first visit is usually short and simple. In most cases, at Carp Family Dentistry, we focus on getting to know your son or daughter and giving you some basic information about dental care. Dr. Kasper will check your child’s teeth for placement and health, and will look for any potential problems with the gums and jaw.

Why is flossing so important?

While brushing is very effective at removing plaque and food debris from your teeth, a toothbrush cannot effectively clean all of the surfaces of your teeth. This can mean that people who brush regularly are still very susceptible to cavities and gum infections.The use of dental floss once a day can clean those difficult-to-reach surfaces in between your teeth and provide you with a truly clean and healthy mouth.

How can I prevent bad breath?

The most common cause of bad breath (halitosis) is bacteria in the mouth and on the back of the tongue. Other causes of halitosis include certain foods, smoking, alcohol, hormonal changes, or simply being hungry.

Depending upon the type of bad breath, the treatment usually begins with ensuring meticulous oral hygiene. Your dentist or dental hygienist will check for gum disease and, if necessary, prepare a detailed treatment plan. Tongue scraping should also become an important part of daily home care and part of your regular tooth brushing routine.

How often should I see the dentist?

Children, teens and adults alike should see the dentist for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to see the dentist more than just twice a year.

When should I change my toothbrush?

Dr. Kasper recommends that adults and children change their toothbrush every three months on average.