Patient Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect at my first visit?

The initial dental examination is the most important event in the entire oral health program of the patient. At this time, the patient has his or her current oral status carefully assessed and a treatment plan is designed to meet your dental needs, which includes a comprehensive dental program to bring you to complete dental health. New patient appointments last approximately 1½ hours.

During your first visit, Dr. Mojica will review with you your medical and dental history, including:

• Sufficient x-rays to complete your dental exam
• A comprehensive periodontal (gum) evaluation
• Evaluation for tooth decay
• Soft tissue examination of the lips, tongue and oral cavity
• Orthodontic Screening Evaluation

Based on our findings at this time, we will determine your treatment plan and schedule your next appointment to begin your dental care. As part of your personal treatment plan, your dentist will work closely with you on a preventive program to minimize costly dental problems in the future.

A comprehensive oral examination is performed to determine any changes in the patient’s dental or medical health status since a previous examination. Dr. Mojica will schedule your return visits to begin your routine dental care needs.

How can I make my teeth whiter?

There are many products and procedures available to brighten your smile. Before you purchase any number of the tooth whitening products in the store or online, it is important to understand what is causing your teeth to stain, the risks, as well as the benefits to whitening your teeth. Your first step should be to schedule an examination and cleaning of your teeth. At this time, your dentist or hygienist can review your oral health with you, any medications that you may be taking, as well as make recommendations for any dietary changes or teeth bleaching products or procedures that will work for you.

When should my child first see a dentist?

This is a common question asked by many first time parents. It is recommended by the American Dental Association, American Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, that your child’s first dental visit should take place around 12 months of age or shortly after the eruption of the first baby tooth. Do not wait until your child has a toothache or a dental emergency to take him/her to the dentist for the first time. The experience may be very traumatic and one the child will probably remember for many years to come. As a result, the child may develop a fear of the dentist and that fear is sometimes very hard to overcome.

I’ve lost a tooth. What can be done?

Today’s dentistry offers many options.

• Tooth bonded back in place
• A removable appliance
• A fixed bridge
• An implant and crown

My teeth are uneven, what can I do?

Cosmetic contouring, porcelain laminate veneers, orthodontics, bonding, or crowns can be used to correct this.

I have big dark silver fillings, can they be made tooth-colored?

Yes. Possible tooth colored replacement choices include:

• Composite (plastic) resin
• Porcelain inlay/onlay
• Porcelain crowns

My teeth are loose.

Have a teeth cleaning (prophylaxis), full mouth x-rays, and periodontal probing to determine why they are loose. Chances are you will want to have a consultation with a periodontist to help determine the cause and develop a plan to treat the condition.

I’ve heard about dental implants; what are they?

They are an excellent means of replacing missing teeth. The titanium implant, osseointegrates, (biologically binds) to the bone, and a full crown goes on top. The result is a natural-looking, secure tooth replacement.

I’m pregnant. Do I need to see my dentist?

If you are pregnant, it’s important for you to receive a dental check-up. There is a high risk factor for premature birth and low birth weight babies associated with expectant mothers that have periodontal (gum) disease. That’s why it’s so important for mothers-to-be to have check-ups during the early stage of pregnancy. Dr. Mojica wants to help prevent any untreated cavities that might lead to a severe infection during your pregnancy. Do not be worried about excessive radiation to the baby during x-rays as all patients are protected with a lead apron and our offices use high speed x-ray film that significantly minimizes the amount of radiation danger.

Eat well and be sure to floss!

• Good oral hygiene and flossing is very important especially during pregnancy.
• Be sure to eat foods high in calcium and Vitamin D throughout your pregnancy. Some good sources of calcium are milk, cheese, dried beans, and leafy green vegetables.
• Limit sweet snacks to avoid tooth decay and cavities
• Nutrition is so important now because your baby is getting its nutrition from you.
• Your baby’s teeth begin forming between your third and sixth month of pregnancy.

What should I do after I’ve had a tooth extraction?

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. That’s why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the appointment. If the bleed still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times.

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. This will prolong the healing process.

After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. Apply an ice pack onto the area to keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Call the office at (408) 254-4402 if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication.