Education Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about dental care, treatments, costs, and what to expect at Roomchang.

General

How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend a check-up and professional cleaning every 6 months. Patients with gum disease or higher decay risk may need visits every 3–4 months.

Does teeth cleaning hurt?

Professional cleaning is generally painless. You may feel mild sensitivity during scaling, especially if there is significant tartar buildup. We can apply a topical anesthetic if needed.

Bad Breath

What causes bad breath?

There are many causes of bad breath, but the most common is the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. The simplest way to prevent bacteria buildup is to brush your teeth and tongue, use dental floss, and see your dentist regularly.

How do I conduct a halitosis test?

There are a few simple breath odor tests. You could ask a trusted friend or loved one to smell your breath, though that could be uncomfortable or embarrassing. If that is the case, you can try this: lick the back of your hand, let it dry with saliva, and then smell it. If your hand smells bad, that could also be an indicator of bad breath. Another simple breath odor test is to rub your tongue, use the tip of a cotton swab, and then smell it. If it smells bad, then your breath also smells bad.

I brush my teeth regularly, but why do I still have bad breath?

Chronic halitosis can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as periodontal disease, diabetes, or throat or lung infections. It can also be caused by xerostomia and certain medications. See a dentist or doctor for a halitosis test and professional diagnosis.

Mouthwash doesn't seem to be working. What should I use?

Most mouthwashes contain alcohol, which dries your mouth and makes it more susceptible to bad breath bacteria. Try using an alcohol-free mouthwash or brushing your tongue. You can buy a special tongue brush or scraper for more effective tongue cleaning. Talk to your dentist about ways to prevent breath odor.

Oral Hygiene

What exactly does "good oral hygiene" mean?

"Good oral hygiene" refers to three things you need to do: (1) Use fluoride toothpaste and dental floss daily, (2) Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet, and (3) See your dentist regularly. These behaviors help prevent dental problems such as cavities and gum disease and keep your breath fresh.

How can parents understand their child's oral health?

A child's oral health starts from day one. Even though your child does not have teeth yet, protecting their gums is still extremely important. After feeding, you can wipe your child's gums with a soft, damp cloth or gauze. Once the teeth erupt, you can start brushing your child's teeth. When your child turns one year old, it is time to take them to the dentist. Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your child's teeth. Children's dental care is more important than you might think, as it helps prevent cavities and ensures permanent teeth erupt correctly. From the time your child's teeth erupt until they are six years old, you must help them brush their teeth, teaching them the correct brushing technique and how to use dental floss. Regular dentist visits are essential. A balanced diet is not only good for their overall health but also for their teeth. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water and milk, eats plenty of vegetables and fruits, and minimizes sugar and sugary foods.

Restorative Dentistry

What is dental restoration?

Tooth restorations are commonly referred to as fillings, and can be made of materials such as amalgam, composite, and glass ionomer cement. Crowns are also a type of restoration. They can be used to cover stained teeth, dental implants, or fixed to in-situ bridges. Dental bridges are used to bridge gaps created by a missing tooth.

Besides fillings, crowns, and bridges, are there other types of dental restorations?

Crowns and bridges are the most common dental restorations. Other procedures include dental bonding, dental implants, removable dentures, and porcelain veneers. A full examination and X-rays will help your dentist determine which types of dental restoration treatments are right for your situation.

Endodontics

Is root canal treatment very painful?

The purpose of root canal treatment is to eliminate the pain sometimes caused by root canal infection. During root canal treatment, the dentist will use anesthesia, so you won't feel any discomfort. If you have dental anxiety, you can ask your dentist for sedation before your root canal treatment.

If I don't feel any pain, why do I need to have a root canal?

A tooth without pain isn't necessarily a good sign. In fact, most teeth that need root canals won't cause you pain. The dentist will need to carefully examine the tooth to assess the health of the pulp beneath the surface to determine if root canal treatment is necessary. X-rays are very helpful.

I have a broken tooth. Does this mean I need root canal treatment?

Not necessarily. However, broken teeth, being detached from the inner canal, are susceptible to bacteria that can lead to root canal infections. In cases of toothache or pain due to infection, sometimes you may not feel any discomfort. If you have a broken tooth, the best course of action is to see a dentist as soon as possible. Even if there is no infection now, it could develop later.

Why not just pull it out?

If possible, it's best to keep your natural teeth as much as possible. Removing a tooth leaves a gap and can cause other dental issues.

Periodontal Dentistry

My gums sometimes bleed. Do I have gum disease?

If you have bleeding gums, you may have some type of gum disease. Similarly, if your gums are swollen and painful, it could be a problem. It is best to see a dentist for a full checkup. While bleeding gums can be due to gingivitis, which can easily be cured with scaling and better oral hygiene, it is sometimes a sign of periodontitis, which is more serious.

I always brush my teeth and use dental floss, so why do I still have gum disease?

Gum disease is usually the result of not brushing teeth, using dental floss, and seeing a dentist regularly. Other factors can also be included, such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, pregnancy, smoking, and poorly fitted dental crowns or bridges.

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two types of gum disease, representing early and late stages. In the early stage, gingivitis manifests as bleeding gums that may be red and swollen. This is called gingivitis, and regular oral cleaning and good oral hygiene habits can restore its condition. Without proper care, gingivitis can lead to advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause not only bleeding, but also more serious problems such as receding gums, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Treating this type of gum infection early typically involves scaling and root planing (SRP), as well as regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene.

What are scaling and root planing (SRP)?

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is the most common treatment for periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis). It is considered a conservative gingival treatment because it does not require surgery. Instead, scaling and root planing (SRP) uses ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments. They are used to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) present on the crown and near the gum line, as well as to remove any remaining root surfaces and smooth the root surfaces.

Are there any surgical procedures involved in the treatment of gum disease?

Surgical treatment of the gums may be recommended if the gum disease cannot be treated non-surgically on its own. There are four basic types of surgical treatment of the gums: (1) Periodontal pocket reduction procedure, (2) Regeneration procedure, (3) Crown lengthening procedure, and (4) Soft tissue graft.

Children

What age should my child first see a dentist?

We recommend a first visit when the first tooth appears, or by the child's first birthday. Early visits help build comfort and catch issues early.

Orthodontics

I keep hearing about "invisible braces." What are they?

"Invisible braces" is used to describe a new type of braces that looks more natural than metal braces. One type of invisible braces is ceramic braces. Another type, clear aligners, is completely different. It replaces traditional metal braces and is made of clear plastic.

What type of orthodontic treatment is suitable for young people?

Most orthodontic treatments are suitable for any age, but the right type of braces will depend on your specific problems and budget.

What do I need to know if I want to get orthodontic treatment?

The orthodontic process begins with a complete orthodontic examination. The orthodontic dentist will discuss your treatment and dental history, and conduct a study of your teeth, jaw, and face using a combination of full-mouth X-rays, cephalometric X-rays, molds, and photographs. This information helps the orthodontist determine what kind of bite problems you have (overbite, maxillary denture, reverse overbite, etc.). The orthodontist will then analyze this information and develop a treatment plan best suited to your situation. Depending on your dental health, you may need a teeth cleaning, extractions, periodontal treatment, or fillings before starting orthodontic treatment. In general, corrective treatment takes one and a half to two years.

How much do braces cost?

Metal braces start from $2,300, ceramic braces from $2,800, and CA® Clear Aligners from $1,000. Invisalign® ranges from $5,000–$9,000 depending on complexity. A consultation will determine the best option for you.

Implants

How long does a dental implant take?

The implant itself is placed in a single visit (about 1–2 hours). After 3–6 months of healing, the permanent crown is fitted. Same-day loading may be possible in some cases.

Are dental implants better than removable dentures?

Removable dentures are an attempt and a true solution for replacing missing teeth. With advancements in technology, removable dentures have also improved appearance. However, dental implants have certain advantages. Dental implants feel just like real teeth because they are permanent. You don't have to worry about them falling out or slipping out, and they are very comfortable.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes. Professional whitening supervised by a dentist is safe and effective. We use the Beyond® Whitening system, which is clinically proven and minimizes sensitivity.

My teeth were stained with tetracycline. Can teeth whitening help?

Unfortunately, most teeth whitening systems are ineffective against tetracycline stains. In some cases, repeated professional teeth whitening treatments may make some difference, but the results may be negligible. In this case, veneers may be the best option to whiten teeth.

How do I choose between at-home teeth whitening and professional teeth whitening?

It all depends on your budget, goals, and lifestyle. For those on a budget, the best teeth whitening option might be a system you can take home. You can have your teeth whitened while watching TV. The results take longer, but it's convenient, effective, and inexpensive. If you want a dramatic change, laser whitening is ideal. Laser whitening is safe and has excellent results. Laser whitening is perfect for special events or treating yourself or a loved one.

Does teeth whitening hurt?

If you have sensitive teeth, you may experience some discomfort after a teeth whitening treatment. Using take-home teeth whitening products can also cause sensitivity. Currently, dentists will recommend using Tooth Mousse by GC® after a whitening procedure to prevent sensitivity. The safest approach is to tell your dentist beforehand so they can help you decide which system is best for your situation.

Overall Health

How can I improve my dental health?

Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, use dental floss frequently, reduce your intake of sweet foods and drinks, and see your dentist regularly.

What kind of overall health is essential for women?

If you are planning to become pregnant, it is essential to maintain optimal overall and dental health. Firstly, this promotes the health of both you and your baby, and secondly, it prevents gum disease, which can be linked to premature birth. Pregnant women are particularly prone to gingivitis, so good oral hygiene is indispensable. Women should eat plenty of foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Avoid or minimize salt intake, quit smoking, and exercise regularly.

How is diabetes linked to oral health?

The relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is a good example of the connection between oral health and overall health. People with diabetes are more susceptible to periodontal disease and serious depressive disorders. This can suppress blood sugar control and may also affect diabetes management. Studies have also shown that cardiovascular disease and stroke are both associated with periodontitis.

How long should you wait after getting an x-ray before starting preparations for pregnancy?

It is not necessary to wait after an x-ray before preparing for pregnancy. Dental x-ray is usually safe, even for emergency treatments during pregnancy. However, it is better if the patient takes it to detect any dental problems before preparing for pregnancy. Should a problem be detected, the treatment should be done in advance of pregnancy.

International

Do you treat international patients?

Yes — we treat patients from over 20 countries. Our team speaks Khmer, English, Mandarin, French, German, and Japanese. We can help coordinate travel and accommodation.

Payment

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash (KHR and USD), Visa, Mastercard, bank transfers, and QR code scans. We also work with major insurance providers.

Still have questions?

Our team is happy to help — reach out anytime.

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