At Eugene Family Dental, we try hard to make sure you don’t just receive great care – you’re also a part of it. That means being able to answer any and all questions you have so that you can make informed decisions about your oral health!

We’ve included some of our most commonly heard questions here, but this is hardly an exhaustive list! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to call us right away at 541-484-1235 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to helping you!

Does Invisalign really work?

Invisalign has been proven to be incredibly effective! While it isn’t always enough to treat patients needing significant orthodontic work, it is a great way to correct minor tooth alignment and bite issues! If you want to close a gap, move a tooth into the right place, or beautify your smile, Invisalign could be a great fit for you!

I’m getting bad pain in the back of my jaw. What is it?

If the pain is starting in the muscles and joint of your jaw, it’s potentially a case of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. The temporomandibular joint is what controls the opening and closing of your mouth. When this is out of alignment or your muscles are improperly trained, you can end up with serious headaches, pain, and a negatively affected quality of life!

At Eugene Family Dental, we specialize in the treatment of TMD, so contact us today to schedule an evaluation appointment!

Are sports mouthguards really necessary?

Sports guard are definitely necessary! They don’t just protect your teeth from damage, either. One of the key reasons to wear a sports mouthguard is to protect yourself from the concussive forces that come with a hard impact. If your jaw slams quickly shut, you can damage your teeth and your brain!

When should my child first see the dentist?

The general rule of thumb is to make sure we see your child within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by their first birthday. This ensures that we not only establish an early record of your child’s oral health, but that we also help your young one grow accustomed to the dentist office. Patients who value oral care from a young age go on to have healthier teeth!

What are the best home oral care habits to have?

When it comes to home oral care, it’s important to be disciplined and thorough! You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once (usually in the evening), but that isn’t all! You also need to be sure you’re using the right kind of brush and brushing techniques for maximum effectiveness!

Use a soft-bristled brush – these are far better at not irritating your gums. When you brush, hold the bristles at a 45 degree angle to your teeth. Roll the brush away from your gumline as you brush, and be sure to get the outside, top, and back of your teeth! You should brush for approximately two minutes in order to get a thorough cleaning. We are big advocates of Sonicare as one of the most effective toothbrushes on the market. Ultimately, our hygienists are experts at proper home care and will demonstrate the best individualized techniques needed to keep your unique mouth healthy.