Jay R. Chumsky, DDS

Frequently Asked Questions


What is root canal?
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Root canal treatment is the process in which a dentist locates the diseased or injured pulp that is located from the tip of the root of the jawbone to the crown of the tooth. This allows the dentist to save a tooth/teeth that would otherwise have been removed.

What types of tooth whitening treatments are there?
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There are 3 types of tooth whitening treatments which include; In-office bleaching, At-home bleaching and Whitening toothpastes

What is in-office bleaching?
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This procedure is done in your dentist’s office and may require more than one office visit. After a protective gel is applied to the gums, a bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth. To enhance the process, a laser is sometimes used.

What is at-home bleaching?
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Products that are sold over the counter and used at home contain peroxide, a bleaching agent. Most of these products come in gel form and are applied to the teeth in the form of a strip. Usually this procedure is repeated once or twice a day for up to 2 weeks.

What are whitening toothpastes?
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These toothpastes have special chemical agents other than peroxide that help in the whitening process. Unlike bleaching, this process does not change the color of the teeth.

What is a bridge?
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A bridge fills the gap where one or more teeth are missing with fixed artificial teeth.

What is Gingevitis?
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Gingevitis is a minor form of periodontal disease. It is caused by inefficient hygiene. If not taken care of it can spread to a more serious form of periodontal disease.

What is Periodontis?
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Periodontis is a more serious form of gum disease. Plaque spreads below the gum line and slowly destroys the tissue and bone. If left untreated, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

How do you treat periodontal disease?
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Non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease includes root scaling and root planning. This procedure removes plaque and tartar on the root surface. When the tissue around the teeth is unable to be prepared by scaling and planning, your dentist may recommend surgery.

What is a dental implant?
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A dental implant is a artificial tooth that is implanted where a tooth is suppose to be. There are 3 types of dental implants; through the bone, within the bone, and on top of the bone. Dental implants are performed by highly skilled dental specialists. There are many advantages of dental implants including; improved speech, appearance, comfort as well as making eating easier.

How do I care for my infant’s teeth?
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Before the baby’s first teeth appear they should start being cared for. Starting early will help insure the proper hygiene and help promote healthy permanent teeth. To clean your infants teeth, gently rub the gums with a piece of gauze once in the morning and once in the evening.

What is a sealant?
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Sealants are a plastic coating that is painted on the teeth to prevent tooth decay. It is applied to the chewing surfaces to prevent food and plaque from getting into the grooves of the teeth. Usually sealants are applied during childhood and teen years, when teeth are more cavity prone.

How long will my novacaine last?
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Depending on the dosage, sensitivity and body mass, novacaine usually lasts anywhere form 1 to 3 hours.

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