Dental FAQs – Your Questions Answered by MI Dental in Kitchener, ON

Dentistry is the art and science of restoring and maintaining the natural, healthy and functional state of the oral environment.

Just like the rest of our body, our teeth and gums are vulnerable to disease and wear over time. Even with the best at-home care, they are constantly exposed to factors that can lead to decay, gum disease or other oral health concerns. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and intervention, preventing small issues from becoming major problems.

Beyond treatment, routine checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Even if your teeth and gums are in great shape, professional care ensures they stay that way. A well-maintained oral environment contributes not only to a beautiful smile but also to overall health and well-being.

By staying proactive with your dental care, you can protect, preserve, and enhance your oral health for years to come.

Finding the right dentist is not just about credentials, it is about trust, experience and sincerity of purpose. While technical expertise is essential, a truly great dentist understands that dentistry is about more than just teeth. It is about treating the person, prioritizing your comfort, confidence and overall well-being.

For those who experience dental anxiety or have avoided dental visits for years, it is crucial to find a team that values patience, understanding and clear communication. At MI Dental, Dentist Kitchener, Dr. Manzoor and our team take the time to walk you through every step of your care, ensuring you feel informed, respected and never rushed. We believe that your dental experience should be stress-free and empowering.

A compassionate dentist listens, informs and supports you in achieving long-term oral health. The teeth are just one part of the equation, it is the person behind the smile that truly matters. Patients deserve to feel respected not judged. They should have ample time to ease into the process and receive all the information they need to make confident decisions about their care. Understanding the steps involved, both for individual appointments and the overall treatment plan can alleviate anxiety and foster trust.

Choose a dentist who sees and treats you as a whole person. At MI Dental, we are committed to creating a supportive environment where your health and comfort come first.

With so many dental offices in the GTA, one has plenty of choices which is great for patients as it fosters healthy competition and continuous improvement. However, as dentistry becomes increasingly commercialized, we have seen a shift where some practices focus more on marketing tactics, offering free whitening or promotional discounts rather than prioritizing what truly matters: exceptional patient care and professional integrity.

At MI Dental, we take a different approach. We believe dentistry is a healthcare profession first, not a business driven by promotional tactics. Our commitment is to uphold the highest standards of care, ethics, skill and patient trust. We do not offer free whitening or tacky promotions, not because we don’t care but because we deeply value the quality of our work and the well-being of our patients.

Our patients choose MI Dental because they prioritize their oral health and appreciate the genuine care, expertise and integrity we bring to the table. When you step into our office, you can trust that our focus is on your health, your comfort and your long-term well-being, not sales tactics.

If you are looking for a dental office that values trust, expertise and patient-first care, MI Dental is here for you.

Populations with the best oral health typically have:

• Widespread access to fluoride (in water or toothpaste)
• Strong preventive care systems
• Low sugar diets

Countries like Sweden, Japan, and Switzerland often top the charts due to public health policies, diet, and regular dental visits. But no matter where you live, good habits at home matter most.

We’re born with two sets of teeth:

• Primary (baby) teeth: Help with eating, speaking, and guiding permanent teeth into place.
• Permanent (adult) teeth: Designed to last a lifetime.

This “two-phase” system allows a child’s mouth to grow before accommodating a full set of adult teeth.

Yes, it’s possible—but not ideal. People without teeth (edentulous) may experience:

• Difficulty chewing and limited food choices
• Speech problems
• Facial changes (sunken cheeks, aged appearance)
• Reduced confidence

Options like dentures, bridges, or implants can restore function and appearance.

During your first visit to our Kitchener dental office, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of both the extraoral and intraoral structures to ensure your overall oral health is in top condition.

Extraoral Examination

We begin by evaluating areas outside the mouth, including:

✔ Lymph nodes – Checking for any swelling or abnormalities.
✔ Thyroid gland – Assessing for any signs of irregularities.
✔ Jaw joints (TMJ) – Evaluating function and signs of discomfort or misalignment.

Intraoral Examination

Next, we examine the inside of the mouth, including:

✔ Cheeks, gums, lips, palate, floor of the mouth, and tongue for any abnormalities.
✔ Oral cancer screening – A critical check for any suspicious lesions or tissue changes.
✔ Teeth and bite evaluation – Examining how your top and bottom teeth align. We check for:

• Bite interferences that may cause excessive wear or damage.
• Signs of grinding (bruxism) or clenching, which can lead to worn enamel and jaw discomfort.
  ✔ Gum health assessment – Looking for redness, swelling, bleeding, or gum recession, which could indicate gum disease.
  ✔ Check for sores, ulcers, or cheek-biting habits that may require attention.

Existing Dental Work & Oral Modifications

We also assess the condition of any:

✔ Crowns, bridges, implants, and fillings – Ensuring they are in good shape and functional.
✔ Oral piercings or jewelry – Checking for any damage to teeth, gums, or soft tissues.

This first visit is a complete evaluation of your oral health status. If any areas of concern are identified, we will discuss them with you and provide personalized treatment recommendations to keep your smile healthy and strong.

Intraoral photos help document your dental condition, track changes over time, explain treatment needs visually, and enhance communication with specialists or insurance.

I do enjoy very much the human aspect of my profession. In dental school we are trained to be excellent clinicians however bringing the teeth and the oral environment to optimal health is a small part of what we do. In essence we are treating a person in an attempt to improve the quality of their life within our prescribed role. I enjoy meeting new people, having conversations with my patients on a varying range of topics and learning from them in the process. The day is full of interesting interactions and conversations.

Dental offices have been flourishing in the GTA for the past several years. Currently there is an oversupply of dental professionals and offices which is beneficial for the consumers as it offers them plenty of choice. This abundance of dental offices puts them in competition with each other for a particular geographical location. Healthy competition is good as it motivates each entity to improve in several ways. Unfortunately, the trend that I am witnessing among dental offices is to veer towards commercialism. They have begun to offer free whitening with exam and cleanings for example, I have also seen offers for free cleanings with exam and X-Rays. There is increased social media presence with dental offices frequently posting pictures and videos on their Instagram and Facebook pages of their engagements which may or may not be of value in creating awareness about oral health.
but then dentistry is a health care profession and if more focus is placed upon advertising, free whitening offers and such then there may be a deviation from our core which is to be medical professionals that uphold the highest standards of the profession.
It seems we as professionals are trying to utilize any modalities at our disposal to make ourselves prominent and to be seen. This in turn has created an image of dental offices as commercial entities and not as health care facilities. I believe our profession should carry respect in the eyes of the public for who we are, knowledgeable, ethical, compassionate, highly skilled and capable professionals who can uphold the trust that a patient puts in them.
If I am excellent at what I do and am caring for the individuals that come to me and trust me with their oral health then their word of mouth is the best advertisement for me. We as a dental office do not offer free whitening or cleanings or any other services for that matter because we take pride in what we do and feel that our services are valuable. In turn our patients are individuals that are concerned about their oral health, they are able to see what we stand for and appreciate us for what we do for them. It is a matter of prioritizing what is important, an office that truly cares for their patients’ well being or one that someone would go to because they offer free electric toothbrush and whitening.

In a dental emergency (e.g., knocked-out tooth, severe pain, swelling, broken tooth):

• Call your dentist immediately
• If the office is closed, follow after-hours instructions
• For a knocked-out tooth, gently rinse and try to reinsert it, or store it in milk/saline and get to the dentist quicklyPrompt care can make all the difference!

To temporarily ease tooth pain:

• Rinse with warm salt water
• Take over-the-counter pain relief like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
• Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods

These are short-term solutions. Tooth pain is often a sign of a bigger issue, so it’s important to schedule a dental visit promptly.

If your crown comes off:

• Don’t panic—keep the crown safe and clean.
• Avoid chewing on that side.
• Use dental cement from a pharmacy (not superglue) if you can’t get to a dentist right away.

Call MI Dental as soon as possible. We will check if it can be re-cemented or needs replacement.

After eating or drinking anything there is food reside left on the teeth. Our mouth has a natural population of bacteria, they feed on this residue and acid is produced as a by product. This acid starts dissolving the enamel of the teeth. This is the process of tooth decay. With regular brushing and flossing we are removing most of the food residue, thereby reducing the amount of acid that would eventually be produced. In addition the food residue causes redness and ultimately swelling of the gums. The gums start to bleed upon brushing, this is not normal. Unhealthy gums begin to sag, moving away from the teeth. The teeth are supported by the jaw bone and the gums, once the gums start receding, the bone around the roots of the teeth start to disappear as well. The tooth will slowly become loose as it would not have enough foundation in the jaw bone. The tooth becomes longer and longer until it is no longer.

At least twice a day, ideally after every meal.

No matter how meticulous we are with our brushing and flossing, we are still not able to remove all of the residue. The remaining soft residue becomes hard over time that is called Tartar or Calculus which cannot be removed with a tooth brush. Cleanings at a dental offices are preformed by trained professionals and they are able to effectively remove all the soft and hard deposits which leaves a more healthy environment for the gums.

Most people should visit the dentist every 6 months for:

• Cleanings
• Check-ups
• X-rays as neededSome patients (those with gum disease, braces, or medical conditions) may need more frequent visits. Your dentist can personalize your schedule.

Among services, cleaning, polishing/stain removal, oral hygiene instructions and demonstration. We also give our patients various oral hygiene devices more suited for their individual condition.

Both have benefits:

• Floss: Great for removing plaque where teeth touch.
• Water flosser: Helpful for people with braces, implants, or sensitive gums. It’s easier to use for some and reduces bleeding.

Best option? Use what you’ll use consistently—or use both!

Only if used aggressively or incorrectly. Toothpicks can:

• Damage your gums if jabbed too hard
• Loosen dental work or widen spaces over time

Dental floss or interdental brushes are safer, more effective tools for cleaning between teeth.

With regular tooth brush one has to be good with the technique, one has to be able to take it to all surfaces of the teeth and use it there for a proper amount of time. With electric tooth brushes, they are more forgiving, due to their head movement, they are able to clean more effectively. If someone is good with their technique and spends a proper amount of time brushing, for them the electric toothbrush may not be very advantageous.

Toothbrush:
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head size that fits comfortably in your mouth. Soft bristles are gentle on your gums and effective in removing plaque. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can work well—as long as you’re brushing properly and for two full minutes, twice a day.

Toothpaste:
Look for toothpaste with fluoride, which helps prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. If you have specific concerns like sensitivity or tartar buildup, there are specially formulated options. Avoid abrasive “whitening” pastes unless recommended by your dentist.

Alcohol-free mouthwashes are often recommended because:

• They’re gentler on the tissues in your mouth
• They don’t cause dryness or irritation

If your goal is to fight bacteria and gum disease, look for a therapeutic rinse with chlorhexidine or essential oils—ask your dentist for a recommendation.

Occasional use of baking soda can help remove surface stains and neutralize acids. However:

• It’s mildly abrasive, so daily use could wear enamel
• It doesn’t contain fluoride, which prevents cavities

For safe use, choose a toothpaste with baking soda that’s dentist-approved, or use it occasionally alongside your regular toothpaste.

Charcoal toothpastes are not recommended by most dental professionals. While they may temporarily remove surface stains, they can be abrasive and wear away enamel over time. They also often lack fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention. For safe whitening, consult your dentist about proven and safe options.

Bleeding gums during cleaning often indicate gum inflammation or disease (like gingivitis or early periodontitis). It means there’s plaque or tartar buildup irritating the gums.

The good news? Regular cleanings and daily flossing can reverse early gum disease and stop the bleeding. Keep up with dental visits to prevent further issues.

Bleeding gums during cleaning often indicate gum inflammation or disease (like gingivitis or early periodontitis). It means there’s plaque or tartar buildup irritating the gums.

The good news? Regular cleanings and daily flossing can reverse early gum disease and stop the bleeding. Keep up with dental visits to prevent further issues.

There are stages of gum disease. In the initial stage the gums look red, puffy and tend to bleed upon brushing. If the process goes unchecked, the gums begin to move away from the teeth, they become loose around the teeth that they are supposed to support. In later stages, they continue to retract and the jaw bone in which the teeth are anchored begins to disappear around the roots of the teeth. The teeth begin to move and as the gums and bone regress, they get to a point where they need to be extracted or fall out on their own.

Food residue on teeth and gums that is not removed effectively. Bacteria in mouth interact with it producing by products that initiate gum disease.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and going for regular professional cleanings.

At the initial stage gum health can be restored by conservative means. Once the gums start receding, beyond a certain point they cannot regenerate and coverage of the exposed root surfaces may be considered with gums grafts and some other modalities.

Not being able to maintain good oral health with home care, not being able to get periodic professional cleanings.

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. Causes include:

• Aggressive brushing
• Gum disease
• Grinding/clenching
• Poor oral hygiene
• Tobacco use

To prevent it:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Practice gentle brushing
• Keep up with professional cleanings

Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth

We use conservative techniques, high-quality materials, and digital tools to ensure strong, long-lasting, and natural-looking restorations.

Yes—if the cavity is very shallow, it might be possible to do the filling without freezing. Some patients also have a high tolerance for mild discomfort.

However, for deeper cavities, local anesthetic ensures you’re pain-free. Always ask—your dentist will try to accommodate your comfort level.

We use conservative techniques, high-quality materials, and digital tools to ensure strong, long-lasting, and natural-looking restorations.

Often yes—especially on molars. Crowns protect the weakened tooth structure and prevent fracture.

Yes—when done properly. Same-day crowns made from high-strength ceramic are durable and esthetic, though some complex cases still benefit from lab-fabricated crowns.

The procedure involves reshaping adjacent teeth and placing a temporary bridge. Local anesthesia is used, so it’s generally comfortable. Some soreness may follow temporarily.

This is common, but manageable. To prevent buildup:

• Use floss threaders or a water flosser to clean underneath.
• Brush thoroughly along the gumline.
• Your dentist or hygienist can show you the best cleaning tools for your specific bridge.

Good hygiene around a bridge helps avoid gum problems and decay under the supporting teeth.

A missing tooth can lead to:

• Shifting of nearby teeth
• Bite problems
• Difficulty chewing and speaking
• Bone loss in the jaw over time

Your dentist can recommend options to replace it—like an implant, bridge, or partial denture—to protect your long-term oral health.

Typically 3 to 6 months. It involves implant placement, healing time for bone integration (osseointegration), and finally, attaching the crown.

Typically it is four teeth, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw that show up quite late in comparison to other teeth in the mouth. Usually all adult teeth are in by age 13 and these four wisdom teeth come in around age 17. It is technically a molar tooth.

If they are causing pain, swelling, infection or pushing on other teeth adjacent to them and compromising their health in the process.

Once it has been determined that removal of these teeth is the best option, the details of the treatment, what to expect during the process and what to expect after are discussed with the patient. Some patients choose to have the laughing gas during the process. Local anesthetic is administered and we wait for it to take effect. There are signs that we look for to ensure its effectiveness. Once it has become effective, then the tooth is removed.

After the extraction, most precautions given are for a 24 hour time period. No spitting, no exercise, no alcohol, no smoking and no hot liquids.

Usually, yes—just ask your dentist!
If the tooth is not biohazardous (like being infected), and you’d like to keep it for sentimental reasons or to show your child, many offices will clean and give it to you in a small container.

If the mouth is too crowded, there may not be enough room to move teeth into alignment. In such cases, removing one or more teeth can:

• Create space
• Allow proper bite alignment
• Prevent teeth from shifting back after treatment

Your orthodontist will only recommend it when truly needed.

Braces are a great investment in your smile, but they also create extra challenges for oral hygiene. The brackets and wires can trap food particles and plaque, making it harder to brush and floss effectively. If not properly cleaned, this buildup can lead to gum disease, cavities and staining even while your teeth are being straightened.

That is why regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential during orthodontic treatment. Dentists typically recommend cleanings every three months to prevent plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy. Daily care is just as important, brushing after every meal and using special flossing tools help maintain a clean and healthy smile throughout your treatment.

Seeing your dentist regularly ensures that your teeth stay in top shape, not just during orthodontic treatment but long after your braces come off!

Children can have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. While full treatment may not start until around age 11–13, early visits help spot potential issues with:

• Jaw growth
• Crowding
• Bite problems

Some kids may benefit from early interceptive treatments to guide jaw or tooth development.

Frequent or prolonged thumbsucking—especially past age 4—can:

• Push the front teeth out of alignment
• Narrow the roof of the mouth
• Affect jaw development and bite

Encouraging gentle behavior change and consulting a pediatric dentist early can help avoid long-term issues.

This gap, called a diastema, can be closed with:

• Braces or aligners
• Bonding (tooth-colored resin)
• Veneers
• Sometimes a frenectomy (removal of tissue causing the gap)

The right solution depends on the cause and size of the gap—ask your dentist for a personalized plan.

TMJ also known as the jaw joint is the most complex joint in the human body. It can move along multiple planes. TMD is a disorder of this joint.

Pain upon movement, unable to open wide, clicking sound from the joint, popping of the joint upon movement, inability to chew, pain in general.

Many factors come into play for TMD to occur. Any deviation from the normal environment of TMJ can lead to discomfort, pain or diminished function; A few notable causes are degeneration of the joint itself, inflammation of the joint, restricted movement due to a pathology, atrophy of the joint muscles and trauma.

Clicking or popping sounds from your jaw—often near your ears—can be caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Common causes include:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Jaw clenching due to stress
• Improper bite alignment
• Injury or arthritis

If the clicking is not painful and doesn’t affect your ability to open/close your mouth, it may not need treatment. But if you have pain, limited movement, or locking, consult your dentist or a TMJ specialist for evaluation.

The first step is determining the cause i-e diagnosis. Second step is management of the cause and the third step is alleviating the symptoms while the cause is being treated.
Typically we start with conservative measures such as balancing the bite if it is due to irregularities in the way top and bottom teeth contact each other during chewing movements. In case the individual grinds their teeth at night, then fabricating a Night Guard. Jaw muscle relaxation exercises and massage.

Yes! A sportsguard (also called a mouthguard) protects your teeth, lips, jaw, and even your brain from injury during sports. It’s recommended for:

• Hockey
• Football
• Basketball
• Martial arts
• And other contact or high-risk activities

Custom-made guards from your dentist fit better and offer more protection than store-bought ones.

Yes—nightguards help protect your teeth if you grind or clench (a condition called bruxism). Grinding can lead to:

• Tooth wear or fractures
  
• Jaw pain or headaches
• Gum recession

A custom-made nightguard from your dentist fits better and lasts longer than store-bought versions.

A partial denture can become loose due to:

• Natural changes in your jawbone or gums
• Wear and tear on the clasps or denture base

Don’t try to adjust it yourself. See your dentist—they can tighten, reline, or replace the denture as needed to restore fit and comfort.

The main idea is to keep it clean just as we would like to keep our teeth clean. Brushing with toothpaste after use should be sufficient. Once clean leave it in the open to dry and then store in its protective case.

If a Night Guard is not kept clean, it develops a thin film of bacteria that harbor in its porous surface producing an odor and when placed back in mouth in this condition, we are transferring that bacteria laden debris in our oral environment.

There are three main options:

• Professional Whitening at MI Dental: Fast and effective, often completed in one visit.
• Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays from Your Dentist: Gradual whitening over days or weeks.
• Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips: Convenient but less effective than professional options.

Whitening is not permanent and may need touch-ups. Always consult your dentist before starting, especially if you have sensitive teeth or existing dental work like fillings or crowns.

We would not. It is a personal choice, esthetics is all about perspective. What looks beautiful to us may not look as appealing to another and vice versa.

They don’t have to. If they feel that the shade of their teeth should be improved then we can evaluate if the person is a good candidate for Zoom Whitening. It is not suitable for everyone.

Not exactly a danger but It can cause some sensitivity during the process and for a few days after.

We have the well recognized, industry leading Zoom Whitening system that can improve the shade of teeth within an hour to a remarkable degree.

Teeth are isolated, gums are protected, The Zoom Whitening gel is applied and exposed to whitening light. Maintenance instructions are given.

Yes—many celebrities achieve their flawless smiles through veneers, which are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of the teeth. Other treatments may include:

• Teeth whitening
• Orthodontics (braces or clear aligners)
• Bonding or crowns

These cosmetic procedures create a uniform, bright smile—but they require good oral hygiene and maintenance.

It can be. Tooth gems or jewelry may:

• Trap plaque and bacteria
• Cause irritation or enamel damage
• Disrupt your bite if not properly applied

If you’re considering it, ask a dental professional for safe options—avoid DIY kits.

They can be—especially if:

• Worn for long periods
• Not cleaned regularly
• Made of poor-quality materials

Grillz can trap food and plaque, increasing your risk of decay and gum issues. If you wear them, clean them thoroughly and limit wear time.

Sweet sensitivity could signal:

• Early tooth decay
• A leaky filling
• Enamel erosion or exposed root surfaces

It’s a red flag worth checking out—especially if the sensitivity is new or worsening.

Cavity risk can vary due to:

• Saliva quality and quantity
• Bacteria types in the mouth
• Tooth shape/deep grooves
• Diet timing (snacking habits matter!)
• Genetics or even gut microbiome

Even if you both brush and floss, small differences can lead to different outcomes. A dentist can help tailor a prevention plan for your specific needs.

Yes—stress is a major cause of teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), especially during sleep. It can lead to:

• Tooth wear or fractures
• Jaw pain
• HeadachesA nightguard and stress management techniques can help protect your teeth.

Diabetes increases your risk for:

• Gum disease (and makes it harder to treat)
• Dry mouth
• Slow healing after procedures
• More frequent infectionsManaging blood sugar and maintaining good oral hygiene are key. Dentists may also recommend more frequent cleanings for diabetic patients.

Your mouth is connected to your whole body! Poor oral health has been linked to:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes complications
• Respiratory infections
• Pregnancy risks (like preterm birth)

Keeping your mouth healthy supports your overall well-being.

Yes—both smoking and vaping can harm your oral health. They:

• Stain teeth
• Increase your risk for gum disease and oral cancer
• Delay healing after dental procedures
• Cause dry mouth, which raises your risk of cavities

Even though vaping may seem safer, it still exposes your mouth to harmful chemicals. Quitting both is the best choice for your oral and overall health.

Sugary drinks feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produce acids that lead to tooth decay and cavities. Even natural sugars in juices can be harmful when sipped frequently. For healthier habits:

• Drink sugary beverages with meals, not between them.
• Brush or rinse with water after consumption.

Limit how often and how long these drinks contact your teeth.

Acidic drinks like soda, energy drinks, and citrus juices (like orange or lemon) can erode the enamel, the protective layer of your teeth. Over time, this makes teeth more sensitive, more likely to stain, and prone to cavities. To reduce damage:

• Use a straw to minimize contact.
• Rinse your mouth with water after drinking.
• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid brushing softened enamel.

Coffee can:

• Stain your teeth
• Contribute to dry mouth
• Be acidic, which may wear down enamel over time

You can minimize its effects by:

• Drinking water after coffee
• Using a straw

Brushing after 30 minutes

Yes! Green tea contains antioxidants and polyphenols that may:

• Reduce inflammation
• Control bacterial growth
• Support gum health

It’s also less acidic than many other drinks. Just be mindful of added sugar and potential staining.

Yes! Sugar-free gum, especially with xylitol, helps:

• Increase saliva flow
• Neutralize acids
• Wash away food debris
• Prevent cavities

It’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing, but it’s a helpful tool—especially after meals.

Bad breath (halitosis) is usually caused by:

• Bacteria on your tongue and teeth
• Gum disease
• Dry mouth
• Certain foods (like garlic or onions)

To prevent it:

• Brush twice daily and floss once a day
• Clean your tongue
• Stay hydrated
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash
• Visit your dentist regularly

Persistent bad breath could signal an underlying issue and should be checked.

• Crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots) help clean your teeth
• Parsley, mint, and basil contain chlorophyll, a natural deodorizer
• Water helps flush out odor-causing bacteria

Sugar-free gum with xylitol boosts saliva and freshens breath

Candy, especially sticky or sour kinds, feeds the bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acid, which weakens enamel and causes cavities. The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the worse it is.

To minimize damage:

• Eat candy with meals, not between them
• Rinse your mouth afterward
• Brush your teeth or chew sugar-free gum soon after

Mostly fruits and vegetables, less processed food and even less sugar.

Hard candy, as one tends to keep it in the mouth for an extended period of time prolonging the detrimental effects of sugar on teeth and gums. In general sweet food items as less as possible. Carbonated beverages, citric fruit juices as they create an acidic environment in the mouth.

Yes, especially over time. Wind instruments can cause:

• Tooth movement or pressure, especially in kids whose jaws are still growing
• Soreness or pressure spots on lips or teeth
• Rarely, wear on front teeth

Proper technique, posture, and custom mouthguards (if needed) can help protect the teeth.

Oil pulling (swishing coconut or sesame oil in your mouth) is an old folk remedy. Some people say it helps with bad breath and plaque—but there’s limited scientific evidence.

It shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing. If you choose to try it, do it in addition to, not instead of, your regular routine.

“Soft teeth” is a common way people describe teeth that seem to get cavities easily. While enamel defects are rare, frequent decay is usually due to:

• Diet (sugar/acid)
• Oral hygiene habits
• Dry mouth
• Genetics

The enamel itself isn’t soft—it’s often external factors that make teeth more vulnerable. With good care, even “prone-to-decay” teeth can stay healthy.

It’s surprisingly common and usually not dental-related. These dreams often reflect:

• Anxiety or stress
• A feeling of loss of control
• Concerns about appearance, aging, or vulnerability

If you’re also clenching your jaw at night, you may want to discuss it with your dentist to see if a nightguard is needed.

Yes—fluoride in water strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, especially in children.

If your local water supply doesn’t contain fluoride, your dentist may recommend:

• Fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinse
• In-office fluoride treatments
• Supplements for kids, if appropriate

Ask MI Dental what is best for your area and needs.

Usually, yes—just ask your dentist!
If the tooth is not biohazardous (like being infected), and you’d like to keep it for sentimental reasons or to show your child, many offices will clean and give it to you in a small container.

Basic procedures such as cleanings, X-Rays and fillings are typically covered by most insurance plans as per the specifics of the plan for that particular subscriber. Quite a number of plans cover major dental work as well such as crowns, bridges and implants.

It’s a cost estimate requested from your insurance provider before treatment. It helps you understand your financial responsibility and ensures coverage clarity.

We utilize digital X-rays, intraoral scanners, and AI-assisted diagnostics to detect issues early and create precise, personalized treatment plans.

We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and calming techniques to make your visit as stress-free as possible.

For Nitrous Oxide, we recommend having a light meal two hours prior to the appointment. There is no after effect, we give 100% Oxygen at the end of the procedure which removed any residual effects of the Nitrous. The individual is able to drive afterwards.

One of the main anxiety causing factors in dentistry is the fear of the unknown, patients anticipate the worse and hence feel nervous being in the dental chair. We take our time to explain to the patients before starting, what we are planning to go, why are we taking this course of action, how long will it take and what are the steps. During the procedure the patient is informed of what to expect from the next step, that way they are part of the process and know exactly what is going to happen next. The element of surprise is eliminated which helps patients feel more in control.

In some cases, yes. Depending on complexity and your comfort level, we can consolidate multiple procedures into a single appointment.

Yes—we welcome second opinion consultations to help you make informed decisions about your care.