General Dentistry

Visiting the dentist regularly is important for the health and integrity of your mouth, teeth and gums. While a general guideline is to have a dental checkup at least twice a year, the frequency of appointments may vary depending on factors such as your oral hygiene, daily habits, and medical conditions.

Individuals at higher risk of dental issues, such as smokers, diabetics, pregnant women, those with gum disease, a weak immune system, or prone to plaque buildup, may need more frequent visits.

Good oral habits like avoiding tobacco, regular brushing, flossing, and a healthy diet can help reduce the need for more frequent dental visits.

There are several things that you can do to keep your mouth, gums, and teeth healthy, and make visits to the dentist less frequent.

It’s important to remember that, while practicing good oral hygiene benefits you, some conditions may still manifest that require a dentist’s experience and care.

• • Reduce your visits to the dentist and keep your mouth healthy by:
  • Brushing your teeth at least twice a day
  • Floss regularly
  • Avoid harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol, or drugs
  • Maintain a healthy diet

Tooth sensitivity is characterised by discomfort or pain originating from the teeth. It can be caused by exposed dentin or roots.

• • Exposed dentin can result from issues like lost fillings or receding gums, leading to sensitivity when exposed to temperature changes or pressure.
  • Exposed roots can also cause sensitivity when hot, cold, or acidic substances stimulate the nerves in the exposed area.
  • Cavities and deep decay that weaken the enamel can also contribute to tooth sensitivity by exposing the dentin and triggering pain receptors.

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, can start at any age. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars from food and produce acids that gradually break down the tooth enamel, creating small holes.

It is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to help prevent further damage. Seeking dental care promptly for any signs of decay is essential to prevent more serious dental problems.

While mouthwashes can help clean teeth and gums, they do not directly combat the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

When using mouthwash, avoid alcohol-based varieties as they can irritate the oral mucosa and increase dryness. It is also important not to rinse with plain water immediately after using mouthwash, as the calcium content in water may contribute to plaque buildup.

Mouthwashes containing fluoride as an active ingredient also might help strengthen tooth enamel but they’re not as effective as toothpastes as they lack the abrasives of toothpaste which helps remove plaque and bacteria from teeth.

If you are experiencing bad breath or other dental issues, it is advisable to consult your dentist to address specific concerns, such as gum pockets or bacterial infections.

While mouthwashes can help clean teeth and gums, they do not directly combat the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

When using mouthwash, avoid alcohol-based varieties as they can irritate the oral mucosa and increase dryness. It is also important not to rinse with plain water immediately after using mouthwash, as the calcium content in water may contribute to plaque buildup.

Mouthwashes containing fluoride as an active ingredient also might help strengthen tooth enamel but they’re not as effective as toothpastes as they lack the abrasives of toothpaste which helps remove plaque and bacteria from teeth.

If you are experiencing bad breath or other dental issues, it is advisable to consult your dentist to address specific concerns, such as gum pockets or bacterial infections.