Dental FAQ

Do you have questions about your dental care? Do you wonder why it is important to brush your teeth every day? And what, exactly, is Dr. Samuel Au doing when he performs a dental treatment? We encourage you to browse through our page for general FAQ in Cypress, California, to learn more about our care! Or, if you would like to schedule an appointment with our dentist, contact us today at (714) 826-9988!

Why should I visit the dentist regularly?

Visiting the dentist regularly ensures that you receive preventive care to stop problems in the earliest stages of development, and ideally to prevent them from developing at all. These regular visits allow us to monitor your oral health and help you learn the best ways to care for your teeth and smile. They also save you time and money in the long run by helping to prevent the need for additional restorative treatments. We recommend that you visit us twice each year.

Why do I need to floss?

Regular brushing will not reach the areas between your teeth or below the gum line. Flossing ensures that plaque and bacteria between the teeth are removed from your mouth before they can cause problems and damage your teeth.

How often should I brush and floss?

You should brush your teeth at least twice each day. It is especially important that you brush your teeth before going to bed. We recommend using and ADA-approved soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. You should floss your teeth at least once each day. You may also want to consider using a mouth rinse. Please contact our office if you have any questions about brushing, flossing or oral hygiene.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes. Dental X-rays are extremely safe. In fact, you are exposed to less radiation with dental X-rays than you are in your day-to-day life from the sun. Advances in dentistry continue to make dental X-rays even more safe as time goes on through the development of digital imaging technologies and higher-speed X-rays. Additionally, federal law requests that X-ray machines be checked regularly for safety and accuracy, and we comply with all regulations to ensure your safety and quality of care.

I’m afraid to visit the dentist. What should I do?

Please speak with our team. We want you to feel comfortable and safe when you visit us, and take your fears and concerns very seriously. There are many strategies which we can use to help reduce or manage your dental anxiety and fear, including:

  • Medications
  • Sedation dentistry
  • The use of lasers or other technology instead of drills in your treatment
  • Techniques to reduce anxiety and mind or body pain (guided imagery, deep breathing, biofeedback, acupuncture, etc.)

If needed we can also recommend a dentophobia clinic or support group. Remember, YOU are our top priority, and we will do everything we can to help you feel at ease so that you can receive the care you need without stress.

When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?

We, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommend that children visit the dentist for the first time about six months after their first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. These initial appointments are designed to help your child become comfortable in the dental office and ensure that they are growing and developing correctly. They help establish a “dental home” for your child, and provide you with a resource to help you care for your child’s oral health.

When will my baby start getting teeth?

Babies begin developing teeth before they are born, in the second trimester of pregnancy. Teeth will typically begin to erupt between 6 and 10 months of age. You should begin gently brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they emerge, and begin flossing as soon as they have two adjacent teeth.

Why are baby teeth important?

Primary teeth are crucial to maintaining good oral health and proper development as children grow. Baby teeth help to facilitate:

  • Proper speech production and development
  • Proper chewing, nutrition and digestive function
  • Straighter smiles (primary teeth hold the places of the adult teeth)
  • Better oral health

Please make sure to take good care of your child’s primary teeth and to help your child learn good oral habits. Feel free to contact our team if you have any questions.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. While many people think of cosmetic dental treatments purely in aesthetic terms, it also includes preventive and restorative care. Common cosmetic dental services include:

I’ve lost a tooth. What are my options for replacing it?

There are several options available for replacing your missing tooth, including:

Our dentist will examine your mouth to determine which type of replacement is right for you and discuss your treatment options with you so that you can make a fully informed decision.

What is a root canal?

Root canal treatment is a type of endodontic procedure, and is often recommended when injury, infection or decay reach the inner tissues of the tooth. When you receive this treatment your dentist will clean out the infected pulp tissue, sterilize the tooth root canals and fill them with medicated material before sealing the tooth to prevent future infection. Root canals are often the only alternative to tooth extraction, and while they have a reputation for being painful advances in treatment techniques have made it possible for you to receive this procedure comfortably.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a field of dental specialty focused on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists are specialists who have completed two to three years of additional training following dental school to learn how to manage tooth movement and guide facial development. Common orthodontic treatments include braces and clear aligners.

When should my child receive their first orthodontic screening?

The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that children receive their initial orthodontic screening by age 7. By this age a number of permanent teeth will have erupted and any developing problems will be apparent so that we can determine of orthodontic treatment is needed and when it should begin.

Am I too old to straighten my teeth?

You are never too old to receive orthodontic treatment. While the majority of orthodontic patients are children or teenagers, about 25% of all orthodontic patients are adults. You should be able to receive treatment without any problems as long as your teeth and supporting oral structures are healthy.

Learn more about our orthodontic options, here!

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a degenerative dental condition affecting the gums and supporting structures of your mouth. It begins as a bacterial infection of the gums and if not diagnosed and treated early will progress until it destroys your gums and supporting bone structure. The milder stage of this disease is known as gingivitis, while the more severe form of the disease is known as periodontitis. Our Cypress dentist will check for signs of gum disease during each of your regular appointments, and if you are diagnosed we will work with you to create a treatment plan to fight the disease and improve your oral health.

What causes periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is caused by harmful bacteria trapped in plaque. When the plaque hardens into calculus (tartar), gum disease becomes more established in your mouth, eventually leading to separation and recession of gum tissue and other problems. If untreated, the disease may become severe and your condition irreversible.

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

Symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease include:

  • Gums that are red, swollen or tender, or other oral pain
  • Bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating hard foods
  • Gum recession
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Sores in the mouth
  • Pus between the gums and teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Changes in the fit of your bite, dentures or other oral appliances

Get started on your treatment today with a dental cleaning and exam!

I have bad breath. What do I do?

Bad breath, or halitosis, may be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Morning time
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Poorly fitted oral appliances
  • Dry mouth
  • Tobacco products
  • Medical conditions or illnesses
  • Missed meals, hunger or dehydration
  • Certain types of food

You can prevent bad breath by staying hydrated, practicing good oral hygiene, using mouth rinses, avoiding tobacco products and visiting the dentist regularly. If your bad breath persists, consult your physician to determine if it is caused by a medical condition.