1. What is the best way to prevent gum disease?
Gum disease can be caused by a number of factors including poor oral hygiene, loss of teeth as well as some health related factors such as stress, diabetes and pregnancy. The best way to prevent gum disease is with a comprehensive oral regime of brushing, flossing and rinsing. This will keep your mouth healthy between visits to our practice where professional cleaning and close check-ups are completed to prevent gum disease from occurring.

2. What can I do if my teeth are cracked?
When teeth crack they can become increasingly sensitive to both hot and cold food and drink. The crack creates an area of weakness which is then open to further problems including tooth decay or further breakage. At the Family Dental Centre we can treat the cracked tooth with a crown where the underlying tooth is bonded effectively to an incredibly strong and durable biocompatible material. This treats the problem, reinstates the stability of the tooth and eliminates the sensitivity felt in the tooth.

3. I have a number of black fillings and want them removed. What options do I have?
Amalgam black fillings are a thing of the past. At the Family Dental Centre, we have been using composite tooth coloured fillings for over ten years.

While those patients who receive filling treatment at our practice have felt the benefits of this, others who may have undergone treatment elsewhere or a long time ago, can choose to have their old, black fillings removed and replaced by more subtle, natural-looking and durable tooth coloured counterparts.

4. What are the consequences of not cleaning my teeth regularly?
Neglect of tooth cleaning, both at home and from the dentist will result in the development of periodontal disease. The build-up of plaque, with the bacteria found in the hardened deposit, known as tartar, creates a breeding ground for irritated gums leading to the breakdown of the mouth’s overall supporting structure.

This can lead to tooth loss as well as a range of unpleasant side effects including bad breath and discolouring to the teeth. Periodontal disease is treatable. A check-up at the Family Dental Centre will identify if you have periodontal disease or are in danger of developing it over time.

5. At what age should I introduce my child to the dentist?
Children require oral attention from very early in their lives. Gentle care should be taken by lightly wiping and cleaning teeth and gums from the moment that they start to appear.

We recommend that you bring your child to us from the age of around three. This early introduction to us not only helps to allay any fears that your child might develop in their later years but also serves to reduce the chance of any potential orthodontic problems right from the beginning.

6. I’ve recently knocked out a tooth. What should I do?
When losing a tooth it is important that you receive dental attention as soon as you can. In doing so you are more able to minimise the chance of further problems from the loss of strength and stability in the mouth and prevent the area becoming vulnerable to disease and infection. Treatment can involve the placement of a bridge or implant depending on the nature of the affected area. In some instances, the tooth can be saved but you need to be treated within one hour of the trauma occurring.

7. I’m feeling increasingly self conscious about the colour of my teeth. Is there anything that I can do to make them look better?
Cosmetic dentistry is an increasingly common practice and whilst you might not want to undergo some a full mouth rehabilitation, you may nevertheless feel that your teeth could do with an improvement in their appearance for your level of confidence.

For those people wanting to add that extra sparkle to their existing teeth, cosmetic dentistry methods include tooth whitening and veneers, both of which can provide you with an elegant solution to discoloured teeth.

8. I care about my teeth and my oral health. What is the most important advice that you would give me?
We instil in all our patients that prevention is better than cure when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth and smile. Consistent, expert care is needed to maintain long term health and vitality. Good dental habits for you to adopt include:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day and after where possible after food.
• Use dental floss daily to aid gum and tooth health.
• Change your tooth brush at least every three months or after illness.
• Maintain regular dental checkups (Every six – nine months or as specified at your consultation)
• Limit sugary and starchy foods
• Don’t smoke

The team at Family Dental Centre is happy to answer any other questions you may have regarding your treatment. To book your consultation, please contact us today. We look forward to seeing you.