Brad A. Walker, D.D.S.
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have questions about dental health or dentistry services offered by W Dentistry in San Jose, we invite you to review our FAQs below, or call 408-445-4444.
To schedule an appointment, please Contact W Dentistry at your earliest convenience.
Why should I visit the dentist regularly?
Many people only visit the dentist when they have a noticeable problem. While they may think that they are saving money, the reality is that the treatments to repair and restore their teeth and smiles cost more money and time than it does to visit the dentist at regular intervals. Regular dental visits ensure that you receive proper care to stop or prevent extensive dental problems from developing in the first place. We can monitor your oral health and help you learn the best ways to care for your teeth so they remain healthy. We encourage you to visit our office twice each year.
Why do I need to floss?
Brushing your teeth will clean the surfaces of your teeth but will not reach the areas between the teeth or below the gum-line. Flossing ensures that plaque and bacteria are removed from your mouth before they can cause damage to your teeth.
How often should I brush and floss?
Brushing your teeth twice daily is encouraged, with the final brushing taking place in the evening after your last meal of the day. Use an ADA-approved soft-bristled toothbrush. Flossing daily is also highly recommended. Using a mouth rinse will further increase your dental health. Contact our office if you have questions.
How safe are dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays are extremely safe. In fact, you are exposed to less radiation with dental X-rays than you are in your day-to-day life from the sun. Advances in dentistry continue to make dental X-rays safer through digital imaging technologies and higher-speed X-rays. Additionally, federal law requires that X-ray machines be checked for safety and accuracy every two years.
I’m terrified to visit the dentist — what can I do?
Please speak with our team. We take your fear seriously and will work with you to help you feel more comfortable in our office. There are many strategies used to help reduce anxiety and fear. Communication helps release the fear and allows our team to further assist you with anxiety.
When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time about six months after their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. These appointments are designed to help your child become comfortable in the dental office and ensure that he or she is growing and developing correctly.
When will my baby start getting teeth?
Babies actually begin to develop teeth in the second trimester of pregnancy (about 16 to 20 weeks.) Teeth typically begin to emerge between 6 and 10 months of age. Floss your child’s teeth as soon as they have two adjacent teeth.
Why are primary teeth important?
Primary teeth are critical to maintaining good oral health and proper development. Your child’s primary teeth facilitate:
It is essential that your child's primary teeth receive good care. Learning proper dental care from an early age teaches good habits that can last a lifetime. Please make an appointment with our team if you have questions.
What is cosmetic dentistry, and how can it help me?
Cosmetic dentistry is a dental field that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth bringing you confidence and a more beautiful smile. It includes preventive care as well as restorative treatments. Some common cosmetic dental treatments include:
I’ve lost a tooth. What are my options for replacing it?
There are several options available to replace your missing tooth. When you visit our office, Dr. Walker will perform an exam, discuss your oral health needs and goals and review your treatment options. We will design a customized treatment plan to restore your tooth and your smile. Some of the tooth replacement options we may discuss include:
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure performed when injury, infection or decay reach the inner tissues of the tooth. Dr. Walker will clean out the infected pulp tissue, sterilize the canals, fill them with medicated material and seal the tooth to prevent future infection. While root canals have a reputation of being painful, advances in dentistry have made it possible to perform your treatment comfortably as well as effectively.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a field of dental specialty that focuses on diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. Dr. Walker offers orthodontics through Invisalign® clear aligners. If more extensive treatment is needed, we have a preferred list of quality specialists.
When should my child receive their first orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that children receive their initial orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, several permanent teeth have erupted and any developing problems will be easily diagnosed and treated.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No! While the majority of patients who receive orthodontic treatment are children or teenagers, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles and oral health. As long as your teeth and supporting structures are healthy, you can receive treatment.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an oral condition that affects the gums and supporting structures in your mouth. It begins as a bacterial infection of the gums and gradually progresses until it destroys your gums and bone structure. The milder stage of periodontal disease is known as gingivitis, while the more severe form of the disease is known as periodontitis. At Walker Dentistry, you will be evaluated for periodontal disease each time you visit.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by the harmful bacteria trapped in plaque. As plaque hardens into calculus (tartar), the disease becomes more established in your mouth. Gum attachments begin to separate from your teeth and create pockets that harbor these harmful bacteria. If gum disease is allowed to progress without treatment, the condition may become irreversible. This can result in the loss of teeth and bone structure.
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
What do I do if I have bad breath?
Halitosis (bad breath) may be caused by any number of factors, including:
You can prevent bad breath by visiting Dr. Walker regularly, staying hydrated, practicing good oral hygiene, using mouth rinses and by not using tobacco products. Regular cleanings and exams and proper diagnoses rule out underlying health issues that may cause halitosis. If your halitosis persists, we recommend that you consult a physician to determine if your bad breath is caused by a medical condition and receive an appropriate treatment.
During your six-month exam, we will provide a professional teeth cleaning and a thorough dental exam to make certain you receive any needed preventive or restorative treatments.
When you visit Dr. Walker and our team, we will review your dental hygiene habits with you and offer needed information on any additional steps you can take to further improve your oral health. To learn more about dental hygiene and schedule your next appointment at our office, please call or visit us today.
