Ledbetter family dental care in ardmore oklahoma wynnewood family dental in wynnewood oklahoma 5 Great Questions Answered By Dr. Les Ledbetter D.D.S. When patients come into the Wynnewood Family Dental in Wynnewood or Ledbetter Family Dental Care in Ardmore, OK office, many have questions about their oral health. Many questions about your oral health have simple solutions so that you can have a healthier mouth. Here are some of the most frequently asked dental questions and answers Dr. Ledbetter gets! Why Do I Need a Dentist? Studies show that at least 92% of Americans have had tooth decay—or “cavities”—sometime during their life. Portrait of smiling family and dogWhen patients come into the Wynnewood Family Dental in Wynnewood or Ledbetter Family Dental Care in Ardmore, OK office, many have questions about their oral health. Many questions about your oral health have simple solutions so that you can have a healthier mouth. Here are some of the most frequently asked dental questions and answers Dr. Ledbetter gets!

 

Why Do I Need a Dentist?

Studies show that at least 92% of Americans have had tooth decay—or “cavities”—sometime during their life. When you eat, some of your mouth bacteria start to break down your food for digestion. Other mouth bacteria mix with sugar in your food to create plaque. Plaque is a sticky, clear substance that sits on your teeth. Because it’s acidic, it will break up the minerals in your teeth, causing dead areas called “cavities.” The acid will also make your gums recede. That recession can get bad enough that your teeth become loose or fall out. That’s why you need a dentist. Dr. Ledbetter has over 30 years of experience in caring for the people of Ardmore and Wynnewood.

 

How Often Should I Come to Ledbetter Family Dental Care and Wynnewood Family Dental?

The American Dental Association (ADA) and Dr. Ledbetter recommend visiting a dentist for comprehensive exams and dental cleanings at least twice a year. However, patients with gum disease, severe decay issues, or chronic conditions may need to see Dr. Ledbetter more often. See what your dentist suggests.

 

How Do I Prevent Gum Disease and Cavities?

Do the basics! Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss 1-2 times a day. Use mouthwash to kill germs in your mouth that would cause cavities. Use fluoride as prescribed by your dentist. Make sure you also see your dentist at least twice a year for exams and cleanings. It’s that easy!

 

Why Do I Have Sensitive Teeth?

A few common causes of tooth sensitivity include cavities, gum recession, sensitivity from teeth whitening products, tooth injuries, a chipped filling, TMJ, or bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching). If you only feel sensitivity or sharp pain when biting down, it’s likely a cracked tooth or filling, and you should see Dr. Ledbetter ASAP.

 

How Can I Get My Teeth Whiter?

The quickest way to whiten your teeth is in-office whitening. In Ardmore at Ledbetter Family Dental Care or Wynnewood, OK at Wynnewood Family Dental, we have materials to whiten your teeth that you can’t get commercially or at the grocery store. If you want a slower white or to maintain a white smile, invest in whitening toothpaste. However, you must check the label on your product. Toothpaste will only be “whitening” if it has hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in it. All others will remove plaque on your teeth. We suggest whitening your teeth in-office to prevent a spotty smile, then maintaining with a whitening toothpaste.

If you have additional questions or have been a while since your last visit, be sure to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations in Ardmore, OK and Wynnewood, OK.