General Dentistry - West Caldwell & Rockaway

Enjoy the convenience of early morning, late evening, and Saturday appointments.

Our practice uses streamlined digital processes to make your visits more efficient.

We invest in cutting-edge technology to elevate patient care, comfort, and convenience.

It is generally recommended that you visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and check-ups. For those with healthy gums and teeth, two dental visits per year may be sufficient; however, individuals who are prone to gum disease or other oral health issues may need to visit more frequently. Your dentist can advise you on the best timeline for your personal needs.

At your regular dental visit, your dentist will typically begin by asking questions about your medical history and any changes since your last appointment. You’ll then be asked to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash before they perform a visual exam of your mouth, gums, teeth, and tongue. The dentist might also use a digital X-ray machine to take images of your teeth so they can detect any potential problems within the root structures or underneath the gum line. After this initial exam is complete, they will typically conduct a professional cleaning by removing plaque buildup and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth using specialized tools. The final step involves applying a protective fluoride coating if needed to defend against tooth decay.

In addition to basic examinations and cleanings, dentists offer various additional services, such as fillings or crowns for cavities and restorative work like bridges or dentures for missing teeth. They can also provide treatments like orthodontics (clear aligners) for straightening crooked teeth or periodontal therapy for treating gum diseases such as gingivitis. Some dentists even offer cosmetic procedures like whitening treatments or veneers for repairing chips in enamel or discoloration due to staining agents like coffee or tea over time.

Yes, flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, which can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It is recommended that you floss at least once a day and use proper technique when doing so. If you need help with proper flossing or have any questions about its importance, be sure to ask your dentist during one of your regular checkups.

The frequency of X-rays depends largely on individual risk factors and current oral health conditions. However, most patients require X-ray exams once every 1-2 years, depending on how often they come into the office for routine checkups/cleanings (as well as their age). Depending on the type of X-ray taken (bitewing versus full mouth series), each procedure typically lasts anywhere from 2 minutes up to 20 minutes depending on how many images need to be taken in order to get an accurate assessment of your teeth structures and jaw joint alignment/relationship between upper & lower jawbones/etc.

You need to take proper care of your teeth by not brushing regularly (at least twice per day) or flossing daily to avoid plaque build-up. This can then turn into tartar (calculus) deposits that accumulate over time near the gum line, where it becomes very difficult for home hygiene methods alone to remove them effectively. This can then cause inflamed or bleeding gums, which, if left untreated, may advance into periodontal diseases ranging from gingivitis to aggressive periodontitis. At this stage, it can ultimately lead to the complete loss of one’s natural tooth structure due to improper hygiene maintenance over extended periods. By taking good care of your teeth and making regular trips to the dentist, you can maintain a healthy, functional smile for many decades to come.