- Why should I have regular fluoride treatments?
Answer…….
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in food and water which helps to strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay, by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars.
The hard outer surface of the tooth is called ‘enamel’, which contains mineral crystals. Everyday plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth attack the enamel causing it to weaken. This process is called ‘demineralisation’. Minerals such as fluoride, calcium and phosphate from the food and water we consume and the toothpaste we use, helps to strengthen the enamel. This process is called ‘remineralisation’. Fluoride speeds up the remineralisation process. Fluoride intake is very important when teeth are developing; it can be taken into the body in two ways –
The food and drink we consume or supplements.
Fluoride toothpaste, mouthwashes or when applied directly to the teeth by the dentist or hygienist during the
dental service in Edgecliff.
Fluoride treatments are offered to children who have a number of cavities or are at high risk of developing cavities. Adults can benefit too. Fluoride treatment is a very simple process administered by the
Edgecliff dentist or dental assistant which helps to prevent tooth decay.
The Treatment
The teeth will be cleaned to remove any food debris, staining.
A high concentrate fluoride foam or gel is placed into an arch shaped dental tray which is inserted over the teeth and left for the required time. Alternatively, a fluoride varnish is painted on to the tooth surface.
Nothing should be eaten or drunk for 30 minutes after the treatment to allow the fluoride to penetrate the teeth.
- How do I keep gums healthy?
Answer…….
- What is Gingivitis?
Answer…….
- What is Periodontal Disease?
Answer…….
- What is tooth grinding?
Answer…….
- Why do I grind my teeth?
Answer…….
The most common reason for grinding is when we try and compensate for an imperfect bite. This is when the upper and lower jaw comes together but the teeth don’t seem to fit comfortably and you therefore try and force them into a perfect bite. Imagine chewing hard but with no food in your mouth. You may also find that you suffer from jaw clenching, which if combined with grinding, will cause greater discomfort and damage to the teeth. It is also thought that stress can lead to grinding although you may be equally unaware that you are doing so as it often happens during your sleep
- What will happen to my teeth if I keep grinding?
Answer…….
- How can I stop grinding my teeth?
Answer…….
As most grinding occurs during your sleep, the most common solution is the use of a mouth guard to prevent such grinding. This helps reduce the pressure of tooth grinding and helps prevent further damage to your teeth. Your
dentist in Edgecliff may also be able make adjustments to your teeth order to achieve a better bite and thus reduce the subconscious effort you are making Naturally, if your grinding is a result from stress then you should learn relaxation techniques and stress management.
- Why do I have bad breath?
Answer…….
- What do I need to do after a dental operation?
Answer…….
- What is a denture?
Answer…….
- What is dental extraction?
Answer…….
- What should I do in an event of a dental emergency?
Answer…….
- What should I do to cure a toothache?
Answer…….
- What should I do if I have a swelling?
Answer…….
- What should I do if I have fractured my tooth?
Answer…….
- What if I have lost a crown?
Answer…….
- What if I have knocked a tooth out?
Answer…….
- What if I have broken my denture?
Answer…….
- What are Inlays and Onlays?
Answer…….
Do you recommend removal of amalgam restorations?
Do you use amalgam?
How long do baby teeth last?
How often should I brush and floss?
How often should I visit the dentist?
What do I do in a Dental Emergency?
When should children start visiting the dentist?
When should tooth brushing start?
Why is it important to start brushing teeth at such a young age?
Why should mouth guards be worn?
