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How often should I visit my dentist? |
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The "typical" checkup interval is every six months to one year. However this really depends on each individual's dental health, and is something you should discuss with your dentist, as they can advise you best.
Some people need very regular cleaning for example, and may have to attend every 3 to 6 months. Others, with no dental problems, may only require a checkup every year.
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I haven't been to a dentist in 20 years, as I've never had any problems with my teeth. Why should I go to the dentist regularly? |
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 Firstly, the sort of person who goes without a checkup for a long period like this with no problems, is very uncommon! Also, when they eventually do have a problem (usually pain) and attend a dentist, there are usually huge problems to be dealt with, involving numerous teeth at considerable cost.
Dentistry is a case of "a stitch in time saves nine". It is much easier to treat a small decayed area on a tooth than trying to rebuild a tooth that has broken down to a "stump" or having to replace it with a false one!
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Why do my gums bleed every time I brush my teeth? |
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The most common reason why gums bleed is due to the teeth and gums not being cleaned thoroughly enough. If you leave bacteria-containing dental plaque sitting on the teeth beside the gums, the bacteria infect the gums themselves.
 The picture to the right here shows gums that have been infected. Notice the red colour all along the edge of the gum beside the teeth. Compare this picture with the picture below, and you can see the gums are swollen as well as being red. This gum infection is called gingivitis.
The picture here on the right shows nice healthy gums. The teeth have been kept clean, and the gum has now healed up. It's no longer swollen, and is a healthy pink colour. Healthy gums like this will not bleed when brushed. |
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What exactly is plaque and where is it found? |
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 The picture on the right was taken at the same time as the first one, except the plaque has been stained pink so it can be easily seen. Normally it is white (in thick section), almost the colour of the teeth, and thus much harder to see.
Plaque is a soft sticky substance, and can be removed with regular, thorough brushing and flossing. Your dentist should be able to show you if there's plaque on your teeth. They will also show you how to brush and floss properly in order to stop plaque accumulating. |
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The dental hygienist recommended flossing. Is it really any good?? |
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 Absolutely!
Normal brushing doesn't clean in between the teeth fully. The most common and effective way of doing this is by flossing. The dental floss removes the plaque between teeth. It is important flossing is carried out correctly, and regularly, at least once a day. You should get your dentist to demonstrate for you. Some patients may need to use other methods, like small brushes that fit between the teeth, particularly if the spaces between the teeth are bigger than normal. Your dentist will advise you on the method most suitable for you. |
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