FAQs
What will happen at my first visit to a dentist?
At your initial visit, your dentist will take a full medical history and history of medications that you may be taking so that you can be treated safely. The dentist will then carry out a full check-up of your mouth and all your teeth. Diagnostic x-rays may also be taken. If you need any dental treatment, the dentist will discuss the treatment plan along with costing. You can make any further appointments as necessary.
Why are my gums bleeding?
Gums bleed when inflamed, which is not considered normal. This is due to plaque (a soft film of bacteria) being left on the teeth which causes inflammation called gingivitis and if not addressed can develop into gum disease. Over time, if not cleaned off through daily brushing and interdental cleaning, the plaque can turn into a hard deposit called tartar or calculus which will require professional scaling by your dentist to remove it.
It is important even if your gums bleed they are still brushed to keep the mouth clean otherwise the bacteria build up in the mouth will make gum inflammation worse. After a few days of thorough cleaning, your gums should stop bleeding. If this does not happen you will need to ask the advice of your dentist as you may need professional cleaning.
How can I prevent cavities?
Always spend two to three minutes brushing your teeth. It takes that long to get rid of the bacteria that destroy tooth enamel. Do not brush too hard. It takes very little pressure to remove bacteria and plaque. Floss at least once a day. Flossing is the only way to remove bacteria from between your teeth.
Watch the sugar you eat. There is sugar in chocolate, fruits and chips. These are the foods that the bacteria in your mouth like most. Be mindful of foods that stick to your teeth. They are a constant supply for the bacteria. Try to minimize the times during the day when sweet items are eaten and brush your teeth afterwards.
If you cannot brush after a meal, rinse your mouth with water – which can help to remove food from your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal can also help. Visit the dentist regularly.
What should I do if my tooth falls out due to trauma?
The following applies only for “Permanent tooth”.
If the tooth is clean, you need to hold the tooth only by the crown and place it firmly back into the socket. And visit the dentist immediately.
If you cannot put the tooth back in, it has more chance of survival if you can keep the tooth in your cheek until you can get to an emergency dentist. If this is not possible, keep the tooth in milk. Never carry it in water.
The tooth needs to be replaced ideally within 30 minutes, so seek dental attention promptly.
I have sensitive teeth. What can I do?
You can try using toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. Rub a little toothpaste into the sensitive area when going to bed as it helps protect the surface.
Try to avoid strongly acidic foods and drinks.
Wait at least an hour after eating before brushing as this could cause even more sensitivity.
Grinding your teeth can also increase sensitivity and a mouth guard maybe necessary.
If the sensitivity continues, speak to your dentist and they may be able to offer further care to reduce your symptoms.
Why does my mouth feel dry?
Dry mouth can be a symptom of many different problems and can happen as you get older also. If you have a dry mouth, this can be very uncomfortable and it can make eating certain foods very difficult.
Many prescription medicines can cause a dry mouth, if you are taking any regular medication from your doctor, it may be worth discussing these symptoms with him to see if there is an alternative that does not have the same side effects.
If you think that you are suffering with a dry mouth, you should discuss this with your dental team. They may recommend remedies to alleviate this problem.
Why am I in pain after a tooth extraction?
Generally any discomfort after an extraction is controlled by the painkillers that have been prescribed.
If pain persists 3-4 days after the procedure, the extraction socket has become infected. You will need to go back to your dentist, who will do a dressing for the socket.
I have dentures. Is it necessary for me to still see my dentist?
Visits to the dentist include more than just “checking teeth.” Patients who wear dentures may have problems such as ill-fitting appliances or mouth sores. Annual visits to the dentist (or sooner if soreness is present) is recommended.
During these visits, evaluation of the fit or need for replacement of the existing appliances is done along with an oral cancer screening and head and neck examination. Regular visits can help you to avoid more complicated problems.
I am undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation for cancer treatment, how can this affect my mouth?
Chemotherapy and Radiation can cause a number of problems in the mouth, some of which might include: mouth sores, infections, dry mouth, bleeding of the gums and pain of the mouth. It can be harder to control these things while undergoing treatment as the immune system is generally compromised as a result of the treatment. There are some special mouth rinses that can be prescribed to help with discomfort during treatment. It is very important to see your dentist before treatment begins and then to continue with recommended follow-up care. Recommendations might be made for additional care both in-office and at home.
Why does the dentist take X-rays?
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when the dentist examines the mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:
  • Small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings)
  • Infections in the bone
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Abscesses or cysts
  • Developmental abnormalities
  • Some types of tumors
  • Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and often unnecessary discomfort. Dentist will evaluate your need for X-rays based on the conditions present.