There's no such thing as a dumb question when you're at the dentist! We're always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Asking your dentist questions during your check-up appointment is a great way to get specific answers that take into consideration your individual dental health, history and relevant lifestyle factors.
Here's some of our most frequently asked questions:
#1: How often should I get a check-up?
Routine check-ups are generally recommended every 6 months, even if your teeth are in excellent condition. This means we can catch any early decay and regularly review and monitor your oral health, and is why you may often hear us saying we are "keeping an eye on" or "watching" certain teeth!
Dental health visits vary from person to person, and it is important to ask your dentist any specific questions at your routine check-up visits.
#2: Why are my teeth sensitive?
Experiencing sensitivity when consuming hot or cold items or while brushing can be caused by several factors. Sensitive teeth are typically the result of worn tooth enamel, tooth grinding while sleeping, or tooth roots that are exposed as a result of aggressive tooth brushing, gum recession or periodontal (gum) disease.
Sometimes, however, tooth discomfort is caused by other factors, such as damaged teeth or fillings that expose dentin (the soft, sensitive tissue within teeth). Some people experience sensitivity naturally more than others if they have thinner enamel, which is when sensitive toothpaste can be really beneficial!
Let your dentist know you are experiencing teeth sensitivity at your next check-up, and they can determine the cause and find the best solution.
#3: Why do I need x-rays taken?
During your initial check-up, your dentist will take 2 bitewing x-rays of both the left side and right side of your mouth. This is to monitor any changes happening to the teeth and surrounding tissue. These x-rays are commonly re-taken every 2 years, but those with a higher risk for certain dental health problems may need them taken every 6 to 12 months.
These x-rays are a low dose of radiation and give the dentists a detailed image of your teeth that can't be seen with the natural eye.
It is important for all patients that are pregnant or suspect they could be pregnant to let the dentist know prior to this procedure. Although the x-rays are low dose, we like to take extra care for these patients.
For procedures such as wisdom teeth extractions and orthodontics, an OPG x-ray may be required. An OPG x-ray is a full mouth x-ray showing the upper and lower jaw. Conveniently, we have an OPG x-ray machine in our clinic! Alternatively, you can visit Exact Radiology with a referral from us to get your x-ray bulk billed through Medicare.
#4: How can I improve the whiteness of my teeth?
The majority of the time, smoking, coffee, tea, and red wine are the four major causes of stained teeth. Cutting down on these items is the most straight-forward, cost effective way to significantly reduce the risk of discolouration and staining of teeth.
To improve the overall whiteness of your smile, try our take home whitening treatment! Our custom-fitted take home whitening trays and gentle and effective professional-grade whitening gels can whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home. This is the safest and most sustainable way of whitening your teeth, especially for long term stains that may be a little more stubborn.
Ask us about tooth whitening during your next check up.
#5: Should I floss regularly?
Flossing once a day is a great way to remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris, effectively preventing tooth decay and keeping your gums and teeth healthy. It is an inexpensive option that can easily and effortlessly be incorporated into your dental routine. It is important to note that flossing the wrong way can potentially cause serious harm to the gum line and expose tooth roots.
Speak to your dentist at your next check-up about oral hygiene techniques in more detail.
#6: Why are my gums bleeding?
Healthy gums shouldn't bleed very easily, therefore it isn't normal to see blood after brushing or flossing your teeth. Bleeding gums can be a sign of severe problems in your mouth however, this problem is easily treated.
Bleeding gums are often caused by bacteria in the mouth and ridding the mouth of these bacteria should fix the problem over time. In severe cases, bleeding around the gums can be a sign of gum disease and if left untreated, gum disease can take on a more severe form, commonly known as periodontitis. This can cause inflammation, redness, loss of bone levels resulting in high tooth mobility and loss of teeth.
The most common causes of bleeding gums are overly aggressive brushing, alcohol and tobacco, poor diet, genetics, and some health conditions causing inflammation of the gums.
Brushing and flossing, when done well, are the core of healthy oral hygiene practices. However, if you have inflamed, bleeding gums, then you may need the help of a professional.
Talk to your dentist at your next visit about ways to stop gum bleeding.
#7: What happens if I have a dental emergency?
Dental trauma, facial swelling, loss of a filling or a broken tooth causing toothache are all cause for concern and classed as a dental emergency. We reserve emergency appointment slots for these events, so give us a call and we'll see you as soon as possible.
If you have excessive facial swelling, or are feeling unwell due to infection, go to a hospital. Swelling can move towards your throat and disrupt your breathing, which is why it's important to have it seen to by a healthcare professional.
Do you have any questions that weren't answered? Leave a comment below!
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Give us a call on (07) 5541 2296 to chat to one of our friendly receptionists.
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