Which brand of toothpaste is best? My grandmother says baking soda is best?
The kind of toothpaste that you choose to use is fairly insignificant. It is the process of mechanically removing food particles off the surface of the teeth that is most important.
Allowing food particles to remain on the surface of your teeth is what allows the process of tooth decay to begin. What's good about commercial toothpaste is that most of them contain a mild abrasive which helps remove plaque.
Grandmother's idea is absolutely correct! In fact mixing your baking soda with a three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide before brushing could help you maintain excellent dental health for your entire life.
Before you get over the fact that it doesn't taste as good as a hot fudge sundae, the benefits begin. Not only is the baking soda a mild abrasive, the sodium bicarbonate will neutralize the acids that cause cavities. Additionally, the sodium will also reduce periodontal inflammation improving the health of your gums. The three percent hydrogen peroxide solution will penetrate the gums killing the bacteria that lead to gum disease.
How do I resolve a dental billing dispute or complaints?
Even in the best dentist-patient relationship, a problem may occur. First, discuss any concerns you have with your dentist. Many times this will help clear up the matter. If you are still not pleased, contact your state or local dental association.
Local dental societies have established a dispute resolution system called peer review to help resolve the occasional disagreement about dental treatment. Peer review provides an impartial and easily accessible means for resolving misunderstandings regarding the appropriateness or quality of care, and in certain instances, about the fees charged for dental treatment.
A peer review committee will attempt to mediate the problem. They may meet to discuss the case and may examine clinical records, talk to the dentist and patient and, when indicated, arrange for a clinical examination.
Should I shop around to compare dental fees?
Feel free to call around the community to compare such factors as location, office hours, fees and what arrangements will be made in case of emergency. If you are comparing fees, ask for estimates on full-mouth X-rays and a preventive dental visit that includes an oral exam and tooth cleaning.
If you have talked with your dentist and still are uncertain about what to do, get a second opinion. To find another dentist for a second opinion, call your local dental society, or ask a relative or friend for referrals. If there is a dental school in your area, you may be able to make an appointment at the school's clinic.
My dentist is insisting on pulling my tooth. How do I find out about other options?
Here are some key questions to ask your dentist about additional treatment options:
• Is pulling my tooth the only option? Is there another possible option available?
• How do the options differ in cost?
• Which solution will last the longest?
• Do all the options solve the problem?
Sources:
Anastasia L. Turchetta RDH, www.AnastasiaRDH.com, http://twitter.com/AnastasiaRDH
http://www.yourdentistryguide.com
www.ada.org
www.cdc.org
MC Ortega is the former publicist for the late Walter Payton and Coca-Cola. Ortega is a senior communications and messaging executive specializing in media relations, social media, program development and crisis communications. Also, Ortega is an avid traveler and international shopper. Ortega resides with her partner, Craig, her dog, Fionne, and her extensive shoe collection. Ortega also enjoys jewelry design/production and flamenco dancing.