Have a question about your smile? You’re not alone! At Northview Family Dental in Spokane, WA, our dental care providers love helping patients understand their oral health and feel confident in their care. Explore our most frequently asked questions below—or contact our team today to schedule your next visit.
General Dental Health
Everyday habits play a big role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are a few simple answers to help you maintain a bright, lasting smile.
Yes. Chewing ice can cause small fractures or chips in your enamel over time. To protect your teeth, avoid chewing ice and enjoy chilled drinks without crunching on the cubes.
Soda contains sugar and acid—two substances that can erode enamel and increase your risk of decay. It’s best to enjoy it in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to help protect your teeth.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. You’ll get adequate fluoride from toothpaste and regular dental visits, so additional supplements are usually unnecessary. For children, supervise brushing to ensure they use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
Both can be effective when used properly. Electric toothbrushes can be especially helpful for children or those with limited dexterity. What matters most is brushing thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush twice a day.
Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth where your brush can’t reach. It’s one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities and support healthy gums.
Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen enamel and help prevent decay. Our team can recommend the best type for your individual needs during your visit.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth after eating or drinking. If not removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar and lead to gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues.
Common Dental Concerns
From tooth grinding to missing teeth, here’s how we help patients handle common dental problems.
Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can lead to headaches, jaw discomfort, and worn enamel. Our dental care providers may recommend a custom nightguard or small lifestyle adjustments to reduce grinding and protect your smile.
Each tooth supports your bite and keeps neighboring teeth properly aligned. When one is missing, the others can shift, affecting your bite and appearance. We offer several replacement options, including dental implants and bridges, to restore your smile’s balance.
Yes. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, can cause tightness or soreness in the jaw, face, or neck. You might also notice clicking or limited movement when opening your mouth. Our team can help diagnose the cause and offer treatments or appliances to relieve discomfort.
It’s never too late to get back on track. Schedule an exam and cleaning as soon as possible—even if you don’t notice symptoms. We’ll assess your oral health, address any issues, and make your return to dental care comfortable and stress-free.
Gum & Bone Health
Healthy gums support every part of your smile. Understanding how to care for them can help prevent more serious concerns later on.
Yes, research shows that gum disease may be linked to heart disease. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and regular cleanings can help reduce this risk.
It starts with teamwork between you and our dental care providers. Brush and floss daily, drink plenty of water, and visit us twice a year for professional cleanings. If needed, treatments such as scaling and root planing can help manage gum disease and protect your oral health.
Most adult tooth loss is caused by untreated gum disease, not cavities. Early warning signs—like swollen or bleeding gums—are easy to overlook. Regular exams allow our team to identify and treat problems early to prevent tooth loss.
Dental Visits & Screenings
Routine dental visits are an important part of maintaining lifelong oral health.
We perform oral cancer screenings during your regular checkups. This includes examining your mouth, tongue, cheeks, and neck for signs of abnormal tissue. Early detection leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
Most patients benefit from professional cleanings twice a year. If you’re managing gum disease or heavy buildup, we may recommend more frequent visits to keep your mouth healthy.
Your child should visit the dentist once their first tooth erupts. This early visit helps ensure proper development and gives parents tips for establishing good brushing habits at home.
Absolutely. Routine dental visits during pregnancy help manage gum health and prevent inflammation. Always let our team know about your pregnancy so we can adjust your treatment accordingly.
Lifestyle & Oral Health
Small lifestyle choices can make a big difference for your teeth & gums.
Yes, they can be. Constant contact between metal jewelry and enamel can cause chips or fractures. Oral piercings can also lead to infections, so avoiding them is the best way to protect your smile.
The acids and sugars in soda can erode enamel and contribute to decay. If you do drink soda occasionally, limit how often and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Absolutely. Routine dental visits during pregnancy help manage gum health and prevent inflammation. Always let our team know about your pregnancy so we can adjust your treatment accordingly.
About Your Care At Northview Family Dental
Our goal is to make every visit comfortable, informative, and focused on you.
If you experience a chipped tooth, swelling, or sudden discomfort, call our office right away. Our emergency dentistry services allow us to treat urgent issues promptly and relieve your discomfort.
During your initial appointment, our dental care providers will review your health history, perform a comprehensive exam, and discuss personalized treatment options. We take time to answer your questions and ensure you feel at ease.
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans and provide flexible financial options for your convenience. Visit our Forms & Financial Options page or call our office for details.
We provide a wide range of treatments, including preventative, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. Explore our services page to learn how we can help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
Still Have Questions?
Our friendly dental care providers are always happy to help. Whether you’re due for a checkup, exploring cosmetic options, or addressing a dental concern, we’re here for you. Contact Northview Family Dental in Spokane, WA today to schedule your visit and experience care that puts your comfort first.