Supporting confident, healthy smiles for the whole family
Piedra Dental Group knows every single one of us, regardless of our age and means, deserves to find and keep confidence and pride in our smiles. A healthy, beautiful smile exudes such confidence and is supported by comprehensive, quality, and affordable dental care.
Drs. Alejandro Piedra and Robert Weishoff are pleased to treat all members of the family at every life stage — as their needs evolve – with our complete array of general dentistry services. Due to our expertise in advanced treatments like dental implant placement and periodontal therapy (Dr. Weishoff is a “gum disease specialist,” or periodontist), our Cooper City, Florida office has everything you need to restore and/or sustain your oral health, an attractive smile, and the overall wellness that is fueled by a healthy, beautiful, and functional mouth.
Fact or myth? If you have a cavity, you will know it. Myth, Mild tooth decay has no symptoms. Sensitivity begins to occur when the tooth decay is already causing damage to the nerve. Today’s dentistry prevents tooth decay with sealants and other conservative methods. Fact or myth? Sugar is the prime cause of cavities. A fact and also a myth. Acid is the main trigger in producing the bacteria that causes cavities. The bacteria is then fueled by the consumption of carbohydrates. Sugar is a trigger in cavities, but carbs as a whole are the main cause. Fact or myth? Cavities are the prime reason for root canals. Myth. Root canals are a result of nerve damage. And untreated cavity could lead to nerve damage, but root canals are on set by number of different factors. Facts on myth? Brushing and flossing are the best way to prevent cavities. Fact. Fact or myth? Expensive toothpastes are always better than cheaper ones. Myth. Different toothpastes are better for different teeth in situations. Sometimes moderately priced toothpaste can be more effective. Ask the dentist about what might be best for your teeth. And always look for the ADA seal of approval. Fact or myth? If a tooth is white, it must be healthy. Myth. Under the surface there may be cavities, problems with the root or other abnormalities. Fact or Myth? Teeth whitening is harmful because it damages enamel. Myth. There are many modern teeth whitening processes that have minimal harmful effects. Teeth whitening isn’t for every mouth or person though. Consult the dentist before you proceed with whitening treatments. Fact or myth? Dentists should be feared. Myth. With today’s advancements in technology and safety practices there is nothing to worry about. Procedures are as quick and painless as ever. Fact or myth? You should visit your dentists at least twice a year. FACT.
When should my child begin to visit the dentist?
The American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that your child begin to visit the dentist by no later than their first birthday. Early visits allow us to identify and address any delays in development, and to also equip parents and caregivers with good tips on caring for infants’ gums and developing teeth, as well as on healthy habits and nutrition. At Piedra Dental Group, we begin seeing kids at 5 years old.
How often should I visit the dentist?
All family members should visit us at least once every six months. Even if you brush and floss consistently and well and have healthy teeth and gums, you still need to complement home care with professional services. These services include professional dental cleanings or “prophy” and comprehensive oral exams. During these exams, we can catch problems that might otherwise go undetected or ignored. Oral issues generally do not go away without treatment. They can progress and cause further damage. So, checkups play a vital role in preventing often painful damage, trauma, and the need for potentially costly and aggressive treatments.
How can I prevent damage?
The No. 1 thing you can do is maintain good oral care. Again, this means consistently brushing and flossing, as well as maintaining regular checkups. We also work closely to identify your unique risk factors for oral problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancers. These risk factors include:
- Smoking, vaping, and the use of products that contain nicotine
- Poor or inadequate nutrition
- Poorly-controlled medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Medical conditions or medications that have dry mouth as a side effect
What if you find something wrong during my checkup?
Piedra Dental Group will take care of it right away! Depending on the nature and severity of what we find, recommendations may be as simple as changes to your brushing and flossing techniques. We may recommend incorporating special oral care products or professional in-office services such as dental sealants and custom night guards. Treatments range from filling, crowns and Invisalign® to gum disease therapy and dental implants.
If it’s been over six months since your or a family member’s last checkup, schedule one today by calling our Cooper City, FL office at (954) 329-0673.
