How often should I see my dentist?

We recommend that you visit your dentist every six months, to ensure that we manage to closely monitor your oral and dental health. A full assessment will take around thirty minutes, which allows the dentist to track any progress, or detect issues such as tooth decay. Regular check-ups can help prevent gum disease, and tooth loss.

Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel, which is caused by acids produced by bacteria. This occurs when sugar is broken down in your mouth. The softening of enamel results in a damaged tooth structure. Tooth decay, if left untreated, can cause cavities (holes in teeth) which continue to expand. This will require treatment, depending on the severity. Treatment may include a filling, root canal or even an extraction, if the damage to the tooth’s structure is that severe.

How to prevent tooth decay?

We recommend that you follow a good oral hygiene routine, brushing with a fluoride containing tooth-paste at least twice a day. This removes any debris from food, which is a prime cause of decay. In addition to regular, six-month check-ups, this will help you maintain good oral health.

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is where the gums become red, swollen or infected. This is caused by bacterial growth in your mouth, which can cause plaque and decay. This results in tissue damage or tooth loss if not properly treated. Please book to see a dental specialist at your earliest convenience, if you suspect you have gum disease, or present with any of those symptoms.

How is gum disease treated?

It varies on the severity of the case. Severe cases may require that the dentist removes the tooth completely, but in other cases, a deep clean can get rid of the bacteria and plaque. To avoid this, it is best to have a dental check-up every six months, to keep on track of your oral health.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Signs of infection that are severe enough to result in a root canal include: Serious pain in the tooth when eating, or when pressure is applied. Tenderness or swelling in the gums. Darkening of the tooth. Pain and sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink. A bump on the gums, close to the painful area. It is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a dentist if you experience any of these symptoms.