Archive for January 2014
Q:What is the difference between periodontal disease and gingivitis? A:Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It consists of infected and inflamed gums. As the infection spreads down the roots it causes bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego . . . Read more
Q:Is baking soda toothpaste healthy for my teeth and gums? A:Baking soda toothpaste does not have any particular benefits over regular toothpaste. Unfortunately, the abrasiveness can wear away the enamel. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger . . . Read more
Q:Does the silver metal in crowns contain mercury? A:No. Mercury is only in silver fillings. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:What does decay look like? A:Decay can be black, brown or even white. Typically, the slower moving the decay the darker it is. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:Can electric toothbrushes cause damage to your teeth or gums? A:Yes, if the toothbrush is of poor quality or if used to aggressively you can cause gum recession and enamel erosion. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View . . . Read more
Q:Does bleaching or whitening your teeth damage them? A:No. Normal whitening techniques which do not overheat the teeth do not cause damage. However, you may experience sensitivity due to the cleansing achieved by the whitening agents. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over . . . Read more
Q:How can I treat sensitive teeth caused from teeth whitening? A:If you use a desensitizing toothpaste in the whitening trays for 15 min following teeth whitening procedures you can reduce sensitivity. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View . . . Read more
Q:Do over the counter whitening,bleaching, products work? A:They have limited success because they do not fit tightly and prevent your saliva from washing away the gel. These products usually leave dark areas at the gum line and between the teeth. Most dental offices usually sell custom trays and whitening gel . . . Read more
Q:What are veneers and what are they used for? A:Veneers are thin porcelain shields that cover the face of your tooth hiding cracks, chips and discoloration. Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years. www.michaelmaksimdds.com View Larger Map
Q:What causes my jaw to pop when I open? A:Your jaw condyle fits into a socket. Both are covered with cartilage. A movable disc separates the condyle and socket. Any of these can become worn and cause popping and pain. The key is to prevent further damage by seeking treatment . . . Read more