FAQs

What is dentistry?

Dentistry is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions, disorders, and diseases of the tooth, gums, mouth, and jaw. Often considered necessary for complete oral health, dentistry can have an impact on the health of your entire body.

What makes Dr. Green qualified to be a dentist?

A dentist is a specialist who works to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Dr. Green has completed eight years of schooling and received a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Washington School of Dentistry. In addition to having over ten years of experience in dentistry, he is also a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, South Sound Study club, and the Thurston Mason County Dental Society.

Why is visiting South Sound Family Dentistry so important?

Visiting Dr. Green regularly not only will help keep your teeth and mouth healthy but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. Dental care is important because it:

• Helps prevent tooth decay
• Protects against periodontal (gum) disease, which can lead to tooth and bone loss
• Prevents bad breath; brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist regularly will help reduce the amount of bad breath-causing bacteria in your mouth
• Gives you a more attractive smile and increases your self-confidence
• Helps keep teeth looking bright by preventing them from becoming stained by food, drinks, and tobacco
• Strengthens your teeth so you can enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for the rest of your life!

My teeth feel fine; do I still need to see Dr. Green?

Your teeth may feel all right, but it’s still important to see Dr. Green regularly because problems can exist without your knowing. Your smile’s appearance is important, and Dr. Green can help keep it healthy and looking beautiful. With so many advances in dentistry, you no longer have to settle for stained, chipped, missing, or misshapen teeth. We offer many treatment choices that can help you smile with confidence, including:

What will happen during my first appointment with Dr. Green?

During your first visit, you’ll meet Dr. Green and our team, and receive a full exam and dental evaluation with detailed treatment planning. We strive to have open communication about findings, costs, and treatment options.

Why should I choose South Sound Family Dentistry?

Our newly renovated office is conveniently located, and has a beautiful, comfortable environment. We offer free Wi-Fi, custom Sonos music, and a hygiene staff with combined experience of almost 60 years!

How can I take care of my teeth between dental checkups?

• ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once!
• Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask Dr. Green if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities.
• Avoid foods with a lot of sugar (which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and potential cavities) and avoid tobacco (which can stain your teeth, cause gum disease, and lead to oral cancer).
• Don’t be afraid to brush your tongue! By brushing your tongue, you will remove food particles and reduce the amount of plaque-causing bacteria. Tongue brushing also helps keep your breath fresh.
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkup. It is recommended that you visit Dr. Green every six months.

At what age should I start taking my child to see Dr. Green?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children first see a dentist as early as six months of age and no later than one year. During this time, your child’s baby teeth will be coming in, and Dr. Green can examine the health of those first few teeth. After the first visit, be sure to schedule regular checkups every six months.

How often should I see Dr. Green?

Children, teens, and adults should all see Dr. Green for a regular checkup at least once every six months. Patients who are at a greater risk for oral cancer or gum disease may be required to visit more than just twice a year. Dr. Green will help determine how often you should visit for regular checkups.

What is a cavity?

A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth and is caused by tooth decay. Cavities form when plaque build-up on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This can produce an acid that eats away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more serious oral health problems. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss between teeth at least once.

What is a filling?

A filling is a synthetic material that your dentist uses to fill a cavity after all of the tooth decay has been removed. Fillings do not generally hurt because Dr. Green will numb your mouth with an anesthetic. They are made from a variety of different materials, including composites, gold, or ceramic. If you need a filling, be sure to talk to Dr. Green about what type is best for you and your teeth.

How often should I brush my teeth?

According to Dr. Green and the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing keeps your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and healthy by removing bacteria that causes plaque. It is also recommended that when you brush your teeth, you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. You should spend at least a minute on the top teeth and a minute on the bottom, and remember to brush your tongue; it will help keep your breath smelling fresh!

When should I change my toothbrush?

Your toothbrush will eventually wear out, especially if you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two to three minutes each time. Dr. Green recommends that adults and children change their toothbrush every three months. If you are using an electric toothbrush, be sure to read the directions, because you may not need to change toothbrush heads as frequently.

If you have gum disease we encourage you to change your toothbrush every four to six weeks in order to keep bacteria from spreading. After brushing, rinse your toothbrush with hot water to kill germs and keep the bristles clean. If you’ve been sick, be sure to change your toothbrush as soon as possible.

What is gum disease?

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease. If detected, it is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease are:

• Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Receding gum line
• Abscessed teeth

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important for patients receiving orthodontic treatment to visit Dr. Green regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Dr. Green will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

How do I schedule my next checkup?

Simply call our Olympia, WA practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to schedule your next dental checkup at your convenience. If you are a new patient, please let us know, and we will provide you with all the information you need for your first dental visit.