General Dentistry
The importance of regular checkups
General dentistry is a very important part of our practice and we cannot emphasise enough the importance of regular general dental check-ups in the prevention of tooth and gum disease. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor any changes to your dental condition and gum health. Along with a healthy diet we will advise on strategies to reduce any negative changes to your dental tissues, be it your teeth, gums or jaw joint (TMJ – temporomandubular joint). Almost everyone should have their dental check-ups performed every 6 months.
Dental radiographs (x-rays) generally should be taken at every 2 years to allow us to view areas that are not visible to the eye or dental explorer (probe) during a regular dental examination. Some changes that are caught early can be reversed with the application of fluorides or sealants. Dietary advice and oral hygiene instruction can also help in reversing negative changes to teeth and gums.
Undiagnosed tooth decay may result in requiring more extensive treatment or at worst losing a tooth. If a tooth is lost, the adjacent and opposing teeth can move and shift which in turn can create other spaces, causing food traps and may not take long for decay and or gum disease to result. You may end up losing several teeth.
Dental bridgework, implants or a partial denture should be made to replace a missing tooth or teeth.
Our practice suggests that you schedule your 6 monthly dental check-up and clean when you finish your existing appointment with us, to ensure you keep on top on your dental and overall health.
Oral Hygeine
There’s no substitute for looking after your oral hygiene the right way every day.
Our dental professionals give advice on the latest techniques for caring for your teeth and gums and will help you develop a daily routine to keep your oral health at the highest standards.
From your first visit, our experienced team will spend time discussing your oral hygiene needs, recommending products and developing a personal program to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.
For more advanced care, you also need to make regular visits to our oral hygienist to guarantee your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible.
Remember, we get the best results by working together as a team – the dentist, the hygienist and the patient
Brushing
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small, circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush up on the lower teeth, down on the upper teeth and the outside, inside and chewing surface of your entire front and back teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse.
Brush your teeth two times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles and plaque:
- In the morning after breakfast
- At bedtime