Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use?
A: The brand of the toothbrush is not nearly as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. For children, a soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended. A small head allows them to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure the gums. Medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and can contribute to recession of
the gums.
Q: Is one brand of toothpaste better than another?
A: It is advised that patients over a year of age use a fluoride containing toothpaste to decrease the incidence of dental decay; preferably one that tastes good to the child and that will foster good oral hygiene.
Q: How often should I floss?
A: It is recommended that every individual flosses once a day to help keep gums healthy and prevent cavities from forming between the teeth in the hard-to-reach areas that can’t be reached by a toothbrush.
Q: What is the better filling; silver or white?
A: While the U.S. Public Health Service issued a report in 1993 stating that there is no health reason not to use silver fillings (amalgam), more patients today are requesting “white” or tooth-colored composite resin fillings. Dr. Wolff’s office uses tooth-colored fillings because they “bond” to the tooth structure, helping to strengthen a tooth that has been weakened by decay. In addition, they are more aesthetically appealing and can be less sensitive to varying temperatures. In cases where composite fillings cannot be used, a crown is usually necessary to provide overall satisfaction for the patient.