Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

How Often do I Need to Visit the Dentist?

We strongly recommend planning a dental visit every 6 months for general cleaning and routine preventative dental examinations (check-ups). Regular and routine appointments are essential in order to avoid major and costly dental issues and also to catch any problems at early stages.

The total number of dental visits beyond your routinely twice a year dental screening will vary from person to person, depending if there is the need of dental treatments, relief of pain, gum disease, orthodontic visit and unexpected dental issues.

Are Electric Toothbrushes Better Than Manual?

Brushing your teeth with ANY SOFT toothbrush is better than not brushing at all. It is perfectly fine to use a manual toothbrush, provided it is used correctly. That means brushing for at least 2 minutes with the proper brushing technique. The reason why we recommend an electric toothbrush is because most people don’t brush properly. The motion of the bristles helps cover the entire surface of the tooth also most brushes have a timer, so that helps to make sure you brush for 2 minutes. Dr. Erika Guerra has a few favourites, so make sure to ask her the next time you’re in!

Why do my gums bleed?

The number one cause of bleeding gums is gum disease, which is caused due to the build-up of plaque around the gum line, plaque contains germs which attacks the healthy tissue around the teeth (gum). When not taken care of the plaque becomes hard turning into tartar. This leads to gingivitis (gum disease) which is a serious condition that needs to be treated. That is why it is so important to keep your routine professional oral hygiene and dental examinations. Gum Disease can affect your overall health since it is linked to serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Which gives you even more reason not to ignore bleeding gums.

Why Do I Need a Filling If My Tooth does not Hurt?

Majority of dental problems don’t have actual symptoms until they have developed into a more serious stage. So please, do not wait for things to develop and get painful and keeping you up at night! Leaving it will only cause you pain and cost you more money. Bacteria can begin to grow and develop, causing cavities or decay before any type of pain or sensitivity starts, by the time you feel anything it could have even reached the nerve. That is why it is so vital to keep up with regular cleans, x-rays, and exam. Remember Prevention rather than intervention!

Why are my teeth Sensitive?

This is a very commonly asked question. Teeth sensitivity is not a disease but rather a condition, that develops over time due to the thinning of the enamel. Tooth sensitivity can be a sign of gum disease and tooth decay, so it is extremely important to visit the dentist to rule out any disease. receding gums, grinding, over brushing or using a hard toothbrush, or a diet high in acidic drinks (soft drinks) this causes the dental tubules to be exposed.  A sensitive toothpaste can help reduce sensitivity. Dr. Erika also has an amazing desensitizer that works wonders. Furthermore having a well-balanced diet, regular dental examination and cleans with topical fluoride applications can help you with the dreaded sensitivity.

Do You Have More Questions?

If you have any dental questions or concerns, or any other dental topic you are not sure of please talk to your dentist about them. Asking questions is the only way we learn.

Make sure to schedule your routine appointment every 6 months, however in the meantime if you need clarification or are confused about any aspect of your dental health why not give us call on (08) 8382 2410 or send us an email reception@morphettvaledentalcare.com.au and we will be more than happy to answer your questions.