Dentist in Marblehead MA, MASS, Massachusetts, serving Swampscott, Salem, Lynn, Nahant

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really necessary to go to the dentist every six months?

YES!! For many people, once every six months is not often enough! Besides checking for cavities, your dentist is evaluating the health of your gums, possible presence of gum disease which may harbor bacteria or infection that could create other health problems. Your head and neck region are examined for infection and oral cancer. Many diseases of the body show symptoms and signs in the oral cavity. To insure the best preventative care for you and your body at least twice a year is recommended.

At what age should I take my child for their first dental appointment?

The first treatment for children is generally recommended between three and four years of age, unless an unusual problem arises. Many dentists are now recommending infants be brought into the office to review with parents home care, what to expect in the oral development and what to look out for. A healthy start to oral care can last a lifetime.

My dentist says I have periodontal disease. What is it?

Per the ADA, Gum disease, also known as, periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums. In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.

How do I use my dental insurance?

We are subscribers to Delta Dental and Dental Blue of Blue Cross/Blue Shield. We are not under contract with any other company but we will be happy to work with any insurance carrier that will allow you to use it in our office. We urge you to become very familiar with your plan. There are so many that we could not possibly know enough to keep you informed about your coverage. No plan pays everything toward your care, therefore learn the limits of your plan by asking at your workplace. We urge you to request your employer or plan purchaser to insist on you having freedom of choice to see any dentist. Our staff works very hard to help you with your insurance.

What is a white filling?

A white filling or composite is a non-metallic material used for cosmetic purposes to restore a tooth. This type of filling is beneficial in that the restored tooth has a more natural appearance. Historically, these materials have been used mostly for front teeth, but with the advent of newer and stronger white materials, it can be used for restoring back teeth in most cases as well and is gaining popularity with many patients!

Why is it important to floss my teeth everyday?

Teeth have 5 surfaces and brushing alone reaches only 3 surfaces! Bacteria are very small and do not require much space to survive. Decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Flossing is an attempt to clean surfaces of your teeth that you cannot reach with a toothbrush. Without flossing it is virtually impossible to control gum disease

I have bad breath. Is there a better solution than over the counter mouthwashes?

Some bad breath is related to food debris, and over the counter mouth rinses work just fine. However, bacteria in the mouth, which can be causing gum disease and decay, can also bring on chronic bad breath (halitosis). If your bad breath seems to stay with you, your dentist can help to remove the problem and keep it under control.

I have missing teeth. What options do I have?

There are several options available to you. Dentists today recommend dental implants as one of the most natural, functional, and esthetically pleasing option to replace missing teeth. The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

A "Bridge" is another option where one or more existing teeth are used to hold the "suspended" replacement tooth in the area of the missing tooth. "Partials" allow patients to keep their remaining healthy teeth and replace missing teeth to restore form and function. Precision partials use fixed crowns and special attachments to secure the partial and eliminate the need for conventional clasping methods.

I am too frightened to go to the dentist? What help is there?

We are proud to offer not only great understanding and a patient, gental chairside manner to ease your fears, we also offer nitrous oxide (“gas”) to calm you as well as any prescription for a tranquilizer or sedative to help achieve a level of serenity during your visit. We have always offered headphones to add music to your ears.

Feel free to talk with us about your fears at any visit or your initial phone call. You can even just come in and talk to Dr. Baratz before any treatment or examination visits.