Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend that patients visit us on a regular six monthly basis for an examination and clean, as the earlier our dentists identify any problems the less difficult and expensive they are to treat. In the examination we look for new cavities, broken fillings and potential problem areas.

2. When should I bring my child to the dentist for their first visit?

We recommend that children be brought to the dentist when all of their baby teeth have erupted. We suggest that children accompany a parent along to a regular examination where they can see you in the chair and understand that it is not a bad experience. On a child’s first visit we offer to take them for a “ride” in our special chair and together count how many teeth they have. This is often sufficient for a first visit to the dentist.

3. How often should I brush and floss my teeth?

Children and adults should both brush at least twice a day and floss once a day. Children often find it very difficult to brush their teeth by themselves, so it is a good idea to let them brush their teeth first, followed by a thorough brush by yourself, to instil good habits early in their lives.

4. How should I brush my teeth and what sort of toothbrush should I use?

Teeth should be brushed with the bristles half over the tooth, and half over the gum. The brush should be moved in a circular direction. Avoid sideways scrubbing as this can cause toothbrush abrasion, causing teeth to become very sensitive around the gum line. A soft bristle brush is always best to use as they are gentle on the teeth and gums. Electric toothbrushes are fabulous with many different models available with extra features like pressure sensors and timers making tooth brushing that little bit easier.

5. I have a fear of the dentist, is it painful to have a filling?

Dentistry has changed considerably over the years, and technology has allowed us to make dentistry as quick and pain free as possible. Our dentists are very gentle and understand your fears, enabling us to provide you with expert dentistry and a pleasant experience. If required, we will anaesthetise the area of your mouth needing work which will enable you to undertake pain free treatment.

6. How can I prevent cavities?

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride tooth paste and floss once a day.
• Limit the intake of sugars and eat a balanced diet. Limit snacking.
• Children should never be sent to bed with a bottle or drink of juice or cordial as sugars left on teeth overnight will quickly attack teeth.
• Visit a dentist on a regular basis.

7. While biting hard food, I broke one of my teeth. What should I do?

If you are not in any pain then ring the dentist as soon as possible and make an appointment, but try and keep the tooth as clean as possible and avoid biting hard on that tooth. If you have pain, then you will need to go to your dentist immediately to prevent any further damage to the tooth.

8. Why do I need x-rays?

Radiographic or X-ray examinations provide your dentist with an important diagnostic tool that shows the condition of your teeth, their roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones.

X-Ray can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumours. X-rays can also show the exact location of impacted teeth. They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through visual examination (such as changes in the jaw bone structure as a result of systemic disease).

9. Is having a healthy mouth really that important for general health?

Another good reason to visit your dentist is that recent studies have shown that maintaining good oral health helps prevent cardiovascular disease or strokes. An Australian study noted a significant reduction in the risk factors for cardiovascular disease following treatment of severe gum disease. Even more interesting, studies have shown that chemicals in red wine help prevent and treat gum disease, and reduce the risk of heart disease. So with a little help from your dentist and a glass of red wine, you are more likely to be merry and live longer.