03
Jun
SOME COMMON DENTAL QUESTIONS
Certain questions are asked by patients on a daily basis. We thought we would put together a list of some of these frequently asked patient questions.
1) What’s the best way to whiten teeth?
There are many ways to whiten teeth from over the counter products such as whitening toothpastes, Crest Whitestrips, hydrogen peroxide rinses or coconut oil rinses. Professional dental whitening products include hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide gels applied either in the office or with the aid of custom trays worn at home. One thing to keep in mind is that whitening toothpastes whiten by polishing via an abrasive action. Our suggestion is to try over the counter/ home remedies and if you aren’t satisfied we can come up with a home or in-office gel whitening plan.
2) What is the best type of toothbrush to use?
First and foremost patients need to have good brushing form (Modified Bass Technique), which consists of soft brushes held at a 45 degree angle to the teeth with tiny circular motions. Hold the brush vertically for the insides of the front teeth. It is recommended to brush twice a day and about 20 minutes after you eat (especially if the food was acidic). Studies show that electric toothbrushes may enhance plaque removal, clean better between teeth, and show improved patient compliance. If you are more likely to brush well with an electric toothbrush it may be worth the investment.
3) What are the benefits of flossing?
Flossing removes plaque (food and bacterial biofilm) between teeth and under the gums between teeth. Removing plaque decreases the amount of bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Interdental brushes, picks, and Waterpik accomplish the same goal.
4) What causes gum recession?
The most common causes of gum recession are
- Overly vigorous toothbrushing (especially with a stiff brush)
- Grinding teeth/ bite problems
- Gum disease
More common questions and answers to come!
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Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD
Adam R Abel, DMD, MD
Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD
Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD, graduated from the University of Connecticut with a BS in Pharmacy and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He spent his general practice residency at Park City Hospital in Bridgeport, CT, and is a graduate of the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL. In 2005, he achieved the highest Academy of General Dentistry honor- Mastership (MAGD). Dr. Pearl is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA), and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Pearl is an expert in many facets of dentistry is constantly advancing what dentistry can offer.
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD, attended college at the University of Connecticut followed be earning a masters degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from Quinnipiac University. He graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency training at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY. In 2021, Dr. Pearl became a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a milestone reached by only six percent of dentists in the US. He is President of the New Haven Dental Association from 2024 to 2025 (Board Member since 2021), and a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, American Dental Association and CT State Dental Association. His clinical interests include CEREC digital dentistry and implants.. He believes that quality dental care can profoundly affect patients’ physical and mental well-being.
View LinkedIn ProfileAdam R Abel, DMD, MD
Adam R Abel, DMD, MD, specializes in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He received his BS from Tufts University and his DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He then underwent specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center. He earned an MD degree at Weill Cornell Medicine and completed extensive training in anesthesiology and general surgery. Dr. Abel also works in NYC and has a teaching position at Weill Cornell, where he also performs advanced jaw surgeries, including orthognathic surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.