It is great to get children used to visiting the dentist from an early age. We recommend a first visit from 2-3 years old. For small children a short exam that we make fun will help them get used to the dental team and the environment, and parents get a chance to ask any questions they may have. Please bring children sooner if there are any concerns you have noticed.

Bad breath or halitosis is often caused by bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria can be found on the plaque between teeth and also on the furry surface of the tongue. Certain bacteria are worse than others at creating unpleasant odour as part of their metabolism. The best way to fix this is remove the bacteria causing the problem by brushing the teeth, gums and tongue. Calculus which is the hard plaque that forms on teeth cannot be removed with a toothbrush and protects bacteria from being brushed away, after a clean at the dentist to remove this there is usually a great improvement in the problem.

It is recommended that patients visit the dentist every 6-12 months. The reason for the difference in time depends on how likely dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease are progressing over time and need monitoring or treatment. 

The cause of bleeding gums is gingivitis. This is when plaque (the white sticky film) accumulates on teeth and isn't cleaned off well enough or often enough so when the gum is disturbed it is already swollen and irritated so it bleeds more easily. If the plaque on teeth is removed well especially next to the gums, it will heal and not bleed anymore when brushed. Over time plaque can turn into hard calculus which also causes gingivitis but needs to be removed by the dentist. The reason gingivitis is such a problem is it can lead to more serious gum diseases for certain people meaning their gums recede and if severe cases become loose and need to be removed. 

Teeth whitening is safe to do as long as you have a full check-up first. This is to make sure that there are no broken fillings or cracked teeth or decay where the bleach could leak into the tooth where it could cause a harm.

Our practice has full wheelchair access. If there are any concerns please give us a call to discuss any questions you may have.