All posts in Hygiene
Q:Are teeth whitening toothpastes effective and safe to use? A:Many whitening toothpastes are too abrasive and can damage your enamel. None of them can whiten your teeth more than one or two shades compared to office whitening which can whiten up to eight shades. Dr. Maksim has been practicing . . . Read more
Q:Does using a water pick (irrigation) replace flossing? A:You should still floss at least a couple of times a week. The irrigation is a great addition especially if you have dental implants. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com . . . Read more
Q:What is root planing and why is it done? A:Root planing(deep cleaning)is the removal of calculus(tartar)from deep under the gum line. This procedure gives the gums a chance to heal once the bacteria are removed. The use of a laser can be added to improve healing. Dr. Maksim has . . . Read more
Q:Why are lasers used to treat gum disease? A:Lasers kill bacteria which cause infections and bone loss. They change the bacterial environment along the root surface for up to three months. Improving the chance the gums will heal. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area . . . Read more
Q:What do bleeding gums mean? A:Bleeding gums are usually a sign of infection and gum disease. Sometimes they are a sign of a systemic disease, a nutritional deficiency,or an autoimmune disorder. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View . . . Read more
Q:What causes bad breath? A:Bad breath can come from the bacteria on the tongue, throat, or gums. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:How can I treat bad breath? A:Persistent bad breath typically comes from gum disease. Therefore you need to see a dentist who treats gum disease to get rid of the bad breath. Home remedies usually have little effect. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area . . . Read more
Q:Does bleaching cause damage? A:Teeth whitening under the instruction of a good dentist does not appear to damage teeth. However. Prolonged use, excessive heat and sloppy placement of the whitening gel may cause damage to the teeth and gums. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego . . . Read more
Q:Does teeth whitener contain bleach? A:No. The whitening gel contains a stabilized peroxide which oxidizes the accumulated organic substances in the pores of the enamel. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:Are electric toothbrushes better the manual toothbrushes? A:Yes, if it is a quality(expensive) electric toothbrush with soft bristles. Harder bristled toothbrushes should only be used upon recommendation of your dentist. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger . . . Read more