Our Frequently Asked Questions

ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL HYGIENE & MORE

Answering Your Questions About Dental Hygiene & More

Check out a few of the more common questions that we see from patients and read a little bit more about dental hygiene, procedures, and more at Cloud Nine Dental – including payment options and toothpaste choice! If you have any other questions for our team (or just want to set up an appointment), we’d love to hear from you!

Which type of toothbrush should I use?

The brand of the toothbrush is not as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. A soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended because medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and contribute to recession of the gums, and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. It’s unnecessary to “scrub” the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings.

Is one toothpaste better than others?

Generally, no. However, it’s advisable to use a fluoride containing toothpaste to decrease the incidence of dental decay. We recommend our patients use what tastes good to them as long as it contains fluoride.

How often should I floss?

Flossing of the teeth once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy.

What's the difference between a "crown" and a "cap"?

These are restorations to repair a severely broken tooth by covering all or most of the tooth after removing old fillings, fractured tooth structure, and all decay. The restoration material is made of gold, porcelain, composites, or even stainless steel. Dentists refer to all of these restorations as “crowns”. However, patients often refer to the tooth-colored ones as “caps” and the gold or stainless steel ones as “crowns”.

What's the difference between a "bridge" and a "partial denture"?

Both bridges and partial dentures replace missing teeth. A bridge is permanently attached to abutment teeth or, in some cases, implants. A partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth and is easily removed by the patient. Patients are usually more satisfied with bridges than with partial dentures.

What's the difference between "silver" fillings versus "white" fillings?

Although the U.S. Public Health Service issued a report in 1993 stating there is no health reason not to use amalgam (silver fillings), more patients today are requesting “white” or tooth-colored composite fillings. We also prefer tooth-colored fillings because they “bond” to the tooth structure and therefore help strengthen a tooth weakened by decay. While fillings are also usually less sensitive to temperature, and they also look better. However, “white” fillings cannot be used in every situation, and if a tooth is very badly broken-down, a crown will usually be necessary and provide better overall satisfaction for the patient.

Do I need to have a root canal just because I have to have a crown?

No. While most teeth which have had root canal treatments do need crowns to strengthen the teeth and to return the teeth to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal.

The dentist was, like everyone else, friendly, but more importantly, she paid attention to details. I needed a cleaning and in the initial exam, they found a tooth with a broken crown. She used state-of-the-art imaging equipment and explained what was needed in appropriate detail. Their referral for a root canal was excellent too (30 min. from start to finish). I returned for my crown yesterday and it fits perfectly (and looks like the rest of the tooth). I feel comfortable recommending this office without reservation.

Dean

I am happy to share my positive experience with cloud nine dental. From the first greeting with the front desk staff to the first class dental care I received. Every procedure was explained so I understood the need. I was impressed with the great use of a very skilled staff. Melissa's chair side assistant graciously check in with me after procedures to make sure my needs were met. "WOW," I am so happy I received this referral from another happy Cloud Nine patient. Thank you, Dr. Mike and fabulous staff.

Cecelia

Dr. Waterman is absolutely incredible! She cares about her patients and is obviously passionate about her work. She looks at the big picture when it comes to dentistry, and doesn’t try to use a bandaid to fix a problem that can continue to cause issues long-term. I had a wonderful experience with her and her staff!

Mike

This is the best dental office I have ever visited. All the staff including the front desk staff, the assistants, hygienist, and Dr. Adams are friendly, welcoming, and a delight to be around. I thoroughly enjoy the experience every time I go in for an appointment which in my experience is rare. Would absolutely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a new dentist!

Chase

Cloud Nine Dental for me has always been like a family business. I am always excited and looking forward to having my dental work done there. Everyone in that facility deeply cares for my health. I am happy and grateful for their care and the loving attention I always get whenever l have a dental appointment at Cloud Nine Dental. The dental care there has always been superb and has never been disappointing. I am glad to be a client.

Jhonson

Whether it’s a routine cleaning or full smile reconstruction, we would love
to hear from you and see how we can help you achieve the best smile possible.