Dentistry FAQ

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What Is An Abscessed Tooth?

An abscess is an infection in your tooth. It often results in puss and swelling in both the pulp of your tooth and the gum tissue surrounding the abscessed tooth. It may develop as a result of tooth decay which goes untreated or from trauma to the tooth. If you develop an abscess, you may need a root canal to save the tooth. It is important to consult our Mesa dentists as soon as you begin experiencing pain so that we can treat the condition in a timely manner.

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease. It consists of an inflammation of the gum tissue. Symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding gums
  • Red, puffy gums
  • Swollen gums

It is important to treat gingivitis promptly. Otherwise, it can lead to much more serious forms of gum disease such as periodontitis.

How Often Should I Go For A Dental Cleaning?

Our Mesa dentistry team recommends that you visit our office at least twice a year for a professional dental cleaning and checkup. At these appointments, we will remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth, and also give you a dental exam of your teeth, gums, and jawsto rule out the presence of any serious oral health issues. Some patients, such as those with severe periodontal disease, may need to visit our office more frequently for extra gum care to ensure these conditions remain under control.

Are Metal Amalgam Fillings Safe?

Dental fillings made of metal amalgam contain mercury. Currently, there is considerable debate among the dental community regarding the safety of dental fillings containing mercury. While there is no conclusive evidence that you are at risk of mercury poisoning from amalgam fillings, our Mesa dentists prefer to use dental fillings made out of porcelain or composite resin as a precaution. Porcelain or composite fillings are very durable and deliver beautiful results.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is commonly experienced when your teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures, such as from drinking very hot or cold beverages, or from eating foods such as ice cream. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease or trauma from a bad bite. In some cases, tooth sensitivity may also be a side effect of cosmetic dentistry procedures such as tooth whitening. Our Mesa dentists offer several treatment options to help you reduce tooth sensitivity.

Dr. Glenn LeSueur and Dr. Charles Dodaro are Mesa dentists, serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, and other East Valley Cities in Arizona, combine LVI training and state-of-the-art technology to bring you, and your entire family, the very best and healthiest cosmetic and neuromuscular dental care.

Visit our before and after gallery to see the results we are able to achieve for our patients. Please contact or call 480.834.6991 to schedule a consultation at Drs of Smiles.

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Drs of Smiles

Office Hours

Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri: 7am - 5pm
Tuesday: 7am - 7pm
Saturday: 8am - 3pm
Sunday: Closed

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