Teethwel Oral Health Care

Q) Do I really need to have my teeth professionally cleaned?

Yes. Even if you brush and floss after every meal and before bed, bacteria-harboring plaque can accumulate in the tiniest crevices, grooves and pits. Over time, decay starts resulting in pain and broken tooth material.

Q) What types of guidelines should I follow after my visit?

In between dental cleanings and consultations, be sure to maintain good oral habits at home, including flossing, brushing after meals, and using fluoridated toothpaste and mouthrinse.

Q) Should I change my brushing habits?

If there are signs of poor oral hygiene, then you need to change your brushing habits. Signs include bleeding or reddened gums, excessive plaque build-up, decaying teeth and receding gumlines. Make an appointment with your dentist for a full consultation.

Q) Is there anything additional necessary with brushing?

Yes. You should also floss daily and use toothpaste that contains fluoride each day. You should also schedule dental exams and professional cleanings two times a year.

Q) Should I be flossing?

Yes. Flossing prevents tooth decay and gum disease. Even if you have restorations, such as crowns or veneers, good oral hygiene is essential for prolonging their use and maintaining your oral health.

Q) Is there anything else I should be doing in addition to flossing?

Yes. In addition to flossing, you should be adopting proper brushing techniques and visiting your Teethwel dentist twice per year for examinations and professional dental cleanings.

Q) Should I change my eating habits to better my oral health?

Probably. Speak with your dentist about the types of foods you should be eating that comply with your diet and can also optimize your oral health.

Q) What types of changes will my Teethwel dentist recommend?

In addition to avoiding sugary foods, the Teethwel dentist suggests drinking plenty of water each day and avoiding snacks between meals whenever possible. Consume nutritional foods from each major food group, including:

• Whole grains
• Vegetables
• Lean proteins
• Low-fat dairy
• Fruits

Q) Which additional habits improve my oral health?

You should be flossing daily and brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Visit your dentist at least twice per year for oral exams and professional dental cleaning.

Q) Do I need treatment for my bad breath?

If your bad breath does not reduce despite self-care techniques, such as dietary adjustments and thorough tooth brushing, you may need to visit your dentist for treatment. Gum, breath mints and mouthwash are temporary remedies to freshen breath.

Q) What should I expect my dentist to do about my bad breath?

It begins with an examination and questions about daily habits, types of foods you eat and medications you take. The dentist will search for signs of decay, infections or gum disease that could be causing your bad breath. If your chronic bad breath cannot be traced to an oral problem or daily habit, you may be referred to a physician for further evaluation.

Q) Is there anything I can do to maintain better breath?

Yes. Eliminate odour-causing foods from your diet, such as garlic and onions. Make an effort to brush your teeth and tongue every morning and night. Try to keep breath fresheners on hand at all times. Sleep with your mouth closed to prevent dry mouth. Finally, be sure to visit your dentist for professional cleanings twice per year to remove deposited plaque that can cause chronic halitosis.

Q) Which toothbrush should I be using?

Either a manual toothbrush or an electric one. However, the rapid movements of motorised versions may be more effective at removing plaque from the teeth and gumline. Ask your dentist which toothbrush is best at your next visit. Look for an electric brush with an oscillating head or one that includes a timer to know how long to brush.

Q) My electric toothbrush was expensive. Do I need to change it as often as a manual brush?

Yes. Your toothbrush should be replaced at least once every three to four months or whenever you notice fraying. However, most electric toothbrushes come with interchangeable heads — you won't need to replace the entire device.

Q) Do I need fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments provide oral support and prevent receding gums and decay if you wear orthodontic braces or are taking medications that cause dry mouth.

Q) What should I expect during fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments are painless and can be administered in the dental office at twice-yearly check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will distribute fluoridated gel, foam or varnish into a tray and place it over your teeth. The treatment lasts a few minutes and is only required between one and four times per year.

Q) What should I expect when I speak with my dentist?

Your dentist should arrange enough time in your consultation and pre-operative exam to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have.

Q) Is there anything I can do to make the process easier?

Yes. Begin thinking of any questions you may have about your post-operative care and write them down. It saves your time as well as your dentist's, without missing any important details.