Dental Care FAQ | Dr. Barry W. Kaimakis DDS, PS

PPO Provider Only

Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Located in the Heart of Seattle, WA

206-621-0455

We follow the Seattle School District's lead for snow days, if there is no school because of inclement weather our office will be closed as well.

FAQ

Family and Locally Owned | 29 Years of Experience | Most Insurance Accepted

Family and Locally Owned
29 Years of Experience
Most Insurance Accepted

Reliable Answers to Your Dental Health Questions

Get answers to common dental and oral health questions with Barry W. Kaimakis DDS, PS. We have 25 years of dental care experience to share with you. We treat patients of all ages and we accept most insurance plans for your convenience. Call us today for an appointment!

Our Frequently Asked Questions

Which toothbrush type should I use?

Toothbrush brand is less important than the type of bristle and size of the brush head. We recommend a soft toothbrush with a small head to reduce irritation and recession of the gums. You can also maneuver to each tooth more effectively.

We recommend brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
Is one toothpaste better than the other?

Generally speaking, there is not much difference between toothpaste brands. We advise choosing a toothpaste that tastes good to you and contains fluoride to reduce dental decay.
How often should I floss?

We recommend flossing once a day to prevent cavities where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing also helps your gums stay healthy.
What is the difference between a "crown" and a "cap?"

These are the same restoration for a broken tooth. Dentists refer to all tooth restorations as crowns. Patients often refer to the tooth-colored restorations as caps and the gold or stainless steel ones as crowns.
What is the difference between a "bridge" and a "partial denture?"

A bridge is permanently attached to adjacent teeth or implants to fill gaps between missing teeth. Partial dentures are attached by clasps to the teeth and can be easily removed by the patient.
What is the difference between "silver" fillings and "white" fillings?

There are no health reasons not to use amalgam "silver" fillings but more patients are requesting "white" tooth-colored fillings for cosmetic reasons. We prefer using "white" fillings because they bond better to the tooth structure, are less sensitive to temperature, and have a better aesthetic look. "White" fillings, however, cannot be used in all situations.
Is a root canal needed because I am having a crown put in?

No. Most teeth that have had root canal treatment will need a crown to protect and strengthen it, but not every tooth that needs a crown requires a root canal.