Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to questions
Most children and adults should see their dentist and hygienist for a regular cleaning and check-up every 12 months. Tobacco and alcohol use, diabetes, pregnancy, periodontal and gum disease, poor oral hygiene are some of the many factors that your dentist takes into consideration when deciding how often you need your dental cleaning and check-up. People at a greater risk of oral diseases should have dental checkups more often.
A confident smile and a healthy mouth are important assets but it is important to replace missing teeth for health reasons as well. Once teeth have gone it results in bone loss. This not only shortens your face and ages it, but can cause other teeth to become loose which are then at risk of falling out. Your features droop and generally appear distorted.
Missing teeth also provide fertile breeding ground for tooth decay. If you have one missing tooth the surrounding teeth become increasingly susceptible to decay, which can result in them being lost as well.
Exposure to all sources of radiation including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental x-rays can damage the body’s tissues and cells and lead to the development of cancer. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of x-rays is extremely small.
Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to the low radiation levels emitted by dental x-rays. Some of the improvements are new digital x-ray machines that limit the radiation beam to the small area being x-rayed, modern higher speed x-ray films require shorter exposure time compared with older film speeds to get the same results, and the use of film holders that keep the film in place in the mouth (which prevents the film from slipping and the need for repeat x-rays and additional radiation exposure).
Any toothpaste containing fluoride that you like the flavour of is fine. Fluoride is important because it helps to strengthen tooth enamel, inhibiting tooth decay.
It′s possible to clean your teeth just as well with a manual toothbrush as an electric one. If you choose to use an electric toothbrush, you should still spend four to five minutes each time. It doesn’t clean any quicker – it’s just doing the movement for you. Those who have limited strength or movement in their hands or arms may find it easier to use an electric toothbrush.
We take any complaints very seriously and will always listen and try and resolve any concerns directly with you. Please feel free to contact the practice manager on 0123 456 789.
