Gawler Place Dental

I brush my teeth but still suffer from bad breath, what can I do?

Adopting an effective at home oral hygiene routine and scheduling professional cleaning appointments to remove plaque and tartar build-up every six months, depending on your current state of oral health, can restore your mouth to full health and make your breath fresh. In some cases, persistent bad breath can indicate you have a more serious health problem, including a gastrointestinal, respiratory or sinus problem. In this instance we advise that you consult with your GP.

Why do I need X-rays?

Decay and other disease of tooth and bone occur in places that are hard to access and clean. Usually these areas are also hard to see visually. X-rays are important for treatment planning as it enables us to detect disease early and treat with simple treatment. So it is important to have X-rays taken every 2 years as a screen in low risk patients and may need to be taken more often in high risk patients.

I was told I have a cavity but it doesn't hurt, why?

Decay starts in the outer layer of the tooth known as the enamel. This tooth layer has no nerves, so when decay is present there is no pain associated with it. It is only once the decay grows to moderate in size that most people experience pain. That is because now the decay is very close to the inside nerve of the tooth or already into the nerve of the tooth.

When should children visit us?

Every child should have a dental appointment by the age of three. It is important to brush baby teeth and visually inspect them every day for changes. Any dark spots, stained areas or frosty white areas it is important to make an appointment regardless of the child's age. It's best to bring the child with you to each appointment, to acquaint themselves with the dentist. Children 4 and under are seen free when appointed with an adult.

When can I get an appointment?

If you are in pain every attempt will be made to see you on the same day and your pain relieved. For all other treatments, you can book the next available appointment.

Is there a link between gum disease, heart disease, diabetes and other diseases?

Recent studies have found that the incidence of heart disease is double in people with gum disease than those without. Gum (periodontal) disease has also been linked to other conditions such as: diabetes, stroke, lung disease, low birth weight, premature birth and stomach ulcers. By keeping regular maintenance appointments with your dental team, you will minimise the effect of gum disease on your overall health.

What causes sensitive teeth?

Sensitive teeth are caused by a wide range of factors. The porous part of the tooth (dentine) is the section that registers pain. Dentin can become exposed by fractured, chipped, injured and decayed teeth. Clenching and grinding is also a factor.

Can I prevent tooth decay and gum disease?

Yes, good oral hygiene starts at home, though it needs to be supplemented by regular visits to us. Most people visit their dentist every 6 months for a check-up, clean and fluoride treatment. Some patients at high risk of disease have more frequent visits. This enables early detection of tooth decay and other health problems. We also encourage twice a day brushing with fluoridated tooth paste and once a day flossing.

I'm pregnant, should I still go to the dentist?

Yes, in fact due to the change in hormones produced in pregnancy your gums bleed easier and react to plaque and calculus build up more severely. It is suggested that pregnant women have cleans every 3 months and check-ups every 6 months. Gum disease has been linked to low birth weight and miscarriage, so regular maintenance is as important as ever.