Frequently Asked Questions

 

What Is Dentistry?

Dentistry is the treatment and prevention of disorders and diseases of a patient’s teeth, gums, mouth and jaw. Dentistry performed properly is necessary for complete oral health and it has a significant impact on the health of a patient’s entire body as well as an impact on self-image and confidence.

 

What Is A Dentist?

A dentist is a specialist who has been trained to diagnose, treat and prevent oral health conditions and problems. Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio, have completed many years of schooling, post-graduate training, and continuing education in order to practice dentistry. After years of schooling a dentist can receive either a DDS or DMD degree. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Despite what many people believe, there is no difference in the degrees. The schooling and training are exactly the same for both degrees.

 

Are Periodic Dental Cleanings Necessary?

We know how busy life can be. Fitting a dental appointment into your busy schedule seems to be one of the most difficult things you have to do. Proper oral hygiene is difficult to maintain but so critical to you oral health. Brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing after every meal will keep many oral hygiene problems away, but not all. Scheduling a cleaning with the office of Robert J. Martino, DDS​ and Allison Sceppaguercio, DMD at least twice a year is highly recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene and diagnose problems before they become costly and painful.

 

Do I Need To See A Dentist Even If My Teeth Feel Fine?

It’s very important to schedule periodic examinations and cleanings at the office of Robert J. Martino, DDS​ and Allison Sceppaguercio, DMD. Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio recommend seeing you twice a year. There are many problems which can exist without knowing. Most times, conditions such as tooth decay and periodontal disease have no symptoms at all. As with any disease, early detection is critical to management, treatment and prevention of these common oral diseases. Not only can we identify problems before they become painful and expensive, but we can also help to keep your smile looking fantastic. Besides prevention and managing your oral health, we also know how important it is to feel comfortable with your smile. This is why we offer many treatments to help improve a patient’s esthetics.

 

What is A Dental Cleaning Like At Robert J. Martino, DDS​ and Allison Sceppaguercio, DMD?

For most patients, sixth month cleanings and examinations are recommended for optimal oral health. A typical periodic visit to the office of Robert J. Martino, DDS​ and Allison Sceppaguercio, DMD will consist of a comprehensive oral examination, oral cancer screening, professional x-rays for early detection of cavities and a full cleaning by our amazing hygienists. Your cleaning will remove tartar, debris and plaque from your mouth. Our hygienists will also educate you on home care and make recommendations so that you can maintain your oral health at home on a daily basis.

Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio will coordinate with your hygienist and recommend a treatment plan for any problems that are found. We will also recommend any esthetic and cosmetic treatments to improve your smile as well as answer any questions that you may have regarding any proposed treatment.

Please call our office at (732) 382-8280 to schedule an appointment or for any additional questions.

 

At What Age Should I Bring My Child To See The Dentist?

Professional throughout the dental profession as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that a child’s first visit to the dentist should be as early as six months of age. This is when a child’s teeth begin to erupt. Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio will be able to examine the health of your child’s first few teeth and make recommendations.

 

When Should I Change My Tooth Brush?

Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio recommend changing your toothbrush at least every three months. If you’re using and electronic toothbrush, please check the manufacturer’s recommendation for that particular type of toothbrush as you may not need to replace the brush as often. If a patient has gum disease Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio recommend that you change your brush more often than every three months. Also, after brushing it’s very important to wash and rinse your brush out with hot water. This will kill germs and bacteria and keep your toothbrush clean.

 

How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?

Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. Plaque and bacteria build up in a patient’s mouth on a daily basis. When that plaque is not removed when it first builds, it hardens and sticks to the teeth both above and below the gumline. When this build up is not treated in the early stages, it can cause gum disease. Factors that contribute to periodontal disease include smoking, chewing tobacco, teeth clenching, certain medications and genetics. Advanced forms of periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss as well as permanent damage. Dr. Martino and Dr. Sceppaguercio recommend that brushing and flossing every day as well as scheduling dental appointments a minimum of every six months is the best way to fight gum disease. Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease are the following:

  • Abscessed teeth
  • Extreme tooth sensitivity
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Loose teeth and or loss of teeth
  • Red, swollen or bleeding gums
  • Receding gum line
  • Shifting of teeth

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us at (732) 382-8280 or email us to schedule a consultation. Your dental health is our highest concern.