Bruggeman Dental :: Common Dental Questions

Common Dental Questions

What kind of toothbrush is most recommended?

We recommend a soft bristled brush for the optimal health of your gums. We also suggest a small headed brush to get around each tooth more thoroughly.

Do I need to Floss?

Yes, it is important to floss daily because flossing removes plaque between teeth where it is hard for a toothbrush to reach. A major contributing factor to gum disease is caused by not flossing.

How often should I see a dentist?

For optimal oral health, we recommend that you find a dentist get a dental cleaning and exam every six months. An oral exam consists of examining your teeth, removing plaque, potentially taking x-rays, along with a deep tooth cleaning and polish. At a minimum we would like to see you annually.

How do I tell if I have gum disease?

Unfortunately, most people that have gum disease are unaware of it. Because gum disease is painless as it begins, it is crucial to schedule regular dental exams. Symptoms of gum disease include consistent bad breath, receding gums, red or bleeding gums, new spaces between teeth, and loose teeth. If you have a concern about gum disease we recommend you make an appointment at our dentist clinic.

How effective are over-the-counter whitening products?

All toothpastes help remove surface stains and some whitening toothpastes provide additional stain removal. However, whitening toothpastes help remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach to whiten your teeth. Whitening toothpastes can lighten your tooth's color by about one shade. Other whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide that helps remove stains on the tooth surface. There is no home dental product that can come close to producing the bleaching effect you get from your dentist's whitening products which can whiten your teeth 3 shades.

Silver amalgam-type fillings, are they safe?

There have been some concerns about silver-colored fillings or amalgam fillings because amalgams contain the toxic substance mercury. A number of individuals believe these amalgam fillings are responsible for causing a number of diseases, including autism, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

The American Dental Association (ADA), the FDA, and numerous public health agencies say amalgams are safe, and that any link between mercury-based fillings and disease is unfounded. Take it for what it's worth. If amalgam fillings still cause you concern, there are a number of other solutions.

How safe are dental X-rays?

You are exposes to a number of radiation sources including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, etc. These sources can damage the body's tissues and cells and can lead to the development of cancer in some instances. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of dental  X-rays is extremely small. Furthermore, advanced technology has given us digital X-Rays which drastically reduce radiation exposure.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of your teeth to prevent tooth decay. The sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and groves of the teeth forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Sealants can protect your teeth from decay for up to 10 years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wear at regular dental check-ups

Why Choose Us?

Dr. Bruggeman's main goal is to provide the best dental treatment possible while making you comfortable in the dental office.

Over the 12+ years he has practiced he has been able to further his knowledge by participating in several continuing education courses that has allowed him to treat most every dental need. - read more

Contact Us

Phone: 720-428-8607
Fax: 720-247-9207

14360 Lincoln Ave.
Thornton, CO. 80023