The 10 Most Common Questions Our Patients Ask

After 25 years as a dentist, I’ve noticed that many of the same questions come up in conversations with patients. Here are 10 of the questions I get asked most often, along with my answers.

How often should I visit the dentist?

Most people should see the dentist at least twice a year, but those with unhealthy gums or braces should visit more often.

Do I really need to floss every day?

Yes, brushing alone does not remove harmful bacteria from between your teeth, which can lead to gum disease and/or cavities.

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Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?

Gums bleed when bacteria are present as plaque or tartar. This is not a reason to stop flossing. Continue brushing and flossing to remove the bacteria causing the bleeding.

Why do I get cavities even though I brush?

Cavities can still develop even when brushing for several reasons. Our diet and how often we consume acidic or sugary foods and beverages can lead to cavities, especially if we eat them often. Consistently “bathing” our teeth in these substances weakens the enamel and can result in cavities. Not flossing to remove bacteria from surfaces between the teeth can also lead to cavities.

Is an electric toothbrush better than a manual one?

Typically, electric toothbrushes remove plaque and even some stains more effectively and efficiently than a manual toothbrush. In addition, some electric toothbrushes prevent people from brushing too aggressively, which can damage teeth and gums.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Several conditions can cause tooth sensitivity, such as thin enamel, cavities, grinding, an abnormal bite, or, more commonly, gum recession. Seeing your dentist to determine the cause of the sensitivity is important to prevent it from worsening.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is generally safe when a dentist supervises it.

Why do I need dental X-rays if nothing hurts?

Dental X-rays help us detect problems before they become major issues. If your teeth hurt, it may mean the tooth’s nerve is involved, which requires more extensive and expensive treatment. We can prevent pain and additional treatment by detecting issues early. This can compromise your tooth’s long-term prognosis or cause pain.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath can have several causes, including poor oral hygiene, diet, decay, periodontal disease, tonsil stones, or even gastric reflux. Bacteria on the tongue will also cause bad breath, so we encourage our patients to use a tongue scraper in addition to brushing and flossing.

Can I go to the dentist if I don’t have dental insurance?

You can absolutely go to the dentist even without dental insurance. Not having dental insurance may be an even bigger reason to see a dentist. Regular dental cleanings and checkups help detect problems early, leading to less invasive and less costly care. By waiting to see a dentist and skipping preventive care, you are more likely to face higher costs and compromise the longevity of your teeth and gums.

At Cambridge Family Dental, we’ve created a Dental Membership that makes preventive care simple, affordable, and stress-free.

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Dr. Angela Bauer Williams

Hello! I’m Dr. Angela Bauer, and I would like to welcome you to my dental practice in beautiful Cambridge, Wisconsin. The most important part of my practice is taking care of my patients in a compassionate and honorable way. I will treat you like I treat my own family and friends, with utmost honesty and your best interests at heart at all times. Because my practice is a locally-owned small business and not a corporation, we can focus on doing the right thing for our patients. We only hire the best people and use the best materials for our patients to ensure healthy, long-lasting, and beautiful treatment. My practice is designed with your comfort in mind, from the inviting waiting room upon entry to the relaxing view with gorgeous landscaping and wildlife from our treatment rooms. We even have blankets and headphones for your comfort.

I utilize only the most modern and proven techniques and materials in treatment. That way, my patients get all the benefits of the best care possible. We have all the latest technologies, including digital scanners for optimal results, digital x-rays for precision, and even intraoral cameras to take pictures of teeth. That way, if you do need treatment, we can show you exactly why, so there is no uncertainty.

I have been in practice for over 20 years, and during that time I have strived to be the best dentist possible for my patients. In 2017 I was honored with a Fellowship Award from the Academy of General Dentistry. Just this year, the same Academy awarded me with a Mastership, which only two percent of practicing dentists currently hold. That is my practice! I am Dr. Angela Bauer, and I invite you to come and see why we are different.

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