Dental questions? Southern York Smile Care has answers, and this guide covers the ones patients in Shrewsbury, PA, ask most often. Everyone has teeth, and most people want to take good care of them. What they need is a trusted place to get clear, reliable information.
That is what the Southern York Smile Care blog is for. Dr. Steven Haywood has more than 35 years in practice and has heard nearly every question there is. Below are short, plain answers to common questions on hot-button topics, with links to learn more. If your question is not here, check the FAQs page or just ask at your next visit.
Questions about everyday care
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
The ADA recommends a new toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Worn bristles do not clean well. It is also smart to replace your brush after a cold or the flu. Read more in How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?
How should I store my toothbrush?
Rinse it well and let it air-dry standing upright. Closed caps and travel cases keep the brush damp, which helps germs grow. Keep brushes from touching each other in a shared holder. See An Air-Dried Toothbrush Is a Healthy Toothbrush.
What does the ADA Seal mean?
The ADA Seal of Acceptance tells you a product, like a toothpaste, floss or mouthwash, has been reviewed by the American Dental Association for safety and for doing what it claims. It is a helpful shortcut when you are standing in the store aisle. Learn more in 4 Reasons to Look for the ADA Seal.
How often do I need a checkup?
Most people do well with a checkup and cleaning every six months. Some people, such as those with gum disease, may need visits more often. Every dental cleaning at Southern York Smile Care is a full 60 minutes.
Questions about protecting teeth
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are thin coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They fill in the deep grooves where food and bacteria get stuck, which helps prevent cavities. They are most often used for children and teens once their back teeth come in. Ask whether sealants make sense for your child at their next visit, or read about children's dentistry.
Do I need a mouthguard?
If you or your child plays a contact sport, a mouthguard protects teeth from being chipped or knocked out. If you grind or clench at night, a night guard protects your teeth from wear and can ease jaw strain. Learn more about bite guards and TMJ and TMD treatment.
Is fluoride my only option for strengthening enamel?
No. Southern York Smile Care offers fluoride for patients who want it and remineralization varnish for holistic patients. Both help strengthen enamel. Your dentist can help you decide which suits you.
Do you place silver fillings?
No. Southern York Smile Care is a mercury-free office and never places silver (amalgam) fillings. Cavities are filled with tooth-colored, BPA-free white fillings that bond to the tooth and blend in. If you have old silver fillings, you can ask about having them replaced.
Questions about straightening teeth
Can I straighten my teeth without metal braces?
Yes. Southern York Smile Care does not offer metal braces. Instead, teeth are straightened with Invisalign clear aligners, a series of clear, removable trays that gently move teeth. Dr. Haywood is an Elite Invisalign Provider. Invisalign Teen and Invisalign Express are also available.
Can you see the aligners?
They are very hard to notice. Most people will not know you are wearing them unless you tell them. You take them out to eat, brush and floss.
Can I pay for Invisalign over time?
Yes. Invisalign can be paid monthly after a down payment. CareCredit and Cherry payment plans are also available. See the financing page.
Questions about cosmetic care
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover uses one or more cosmetic treatments, such as whitening, veneers, bonding or a gum lift, to improve how your smile looks. Each plan is built around your face and your goals. Learn more about a complete smile makeover.
What is gum contouring?
If too much gum shows when you smile, or your teeth look short, gum contouring reshapes the gum line to show more of each tooth. It is usually done with a laser. See Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum Contouring or the cosmetic gum lift page.
Will whitening work on my teeth?
Whitening works on natural enamel and lifts many common stains. It does not change crowns, veneers or fillings, and some deep stains need veneers or bonding instead.
Questions about missing teeth
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small post placed in the jawbone that acts like a new tooth root. A crown, bridge or denture attaches on top. Implants look and feel much like natural teeth and help keep the jawbone from shrinking. Dr. Haywood is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Learn more about dental implants.
Can I get implants if I have lost bone?
Often, yes. Bone grafting can rebuild the area first, and a Green CT 3D scan shows exactly how much bone is there. Read Can You Get Dental Implants If You Have Bone Loss?
Questions about visits and payment
Do you take my insurance?
Southern York Smile Care is out of network with every insurer. You pay at the visit, and the office files the claim so your insurance company can reimburse you. Kelley Fisher, the Patient Care and Treatment Coordinator, can help with insurance questions.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Call the office right away at (717) 235-3871. If a tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown, not the root, rinse it gently and try to keep it in milk or in your cheek until you are seen. For swelling, fever or trouble swallowing, get care the same day. Learn more about emergency dental care.
What if I feel nervous?
Tell the team. They will explain each step and let you take breaks. Sedation dentistry with oral sedation is available for longer visits or strong anxiety.
Still have a question?
This blog is here to help you make informed choices about your dental health and any treatment you may be considering. But nothing replaces a real conversation. Southern York Smile Care offers cosmetic dentistry, gum disease care and much more for families in Shrewsbury, York, southern York County and northern Baltimore County.
Call (717) 235-3871 or request an appointment at 4 S. Main St in Shrewsbury, PA. New patients can read the new patient information first.
DDS cum laude 1987, US Air Force residency, NYU cosmetic training and Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, with 35+ years in practice.
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