Why Regular Dental Check Ups are Important
Taking good care of your teeth and gums on a daily basis can help reduce dental and even health problems you might experience in the future. A regular dental check-up is important regardless of your age because it will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Checkups are not just for kids! Both you and your children should have a regular dental visit at least every six months or as recommended by your dentist.
Below are some useful dental and mouth care tips:
Maintain a good standard of oral hygiene. Brush your teeth using a fluoride toothpaste twice a day to remove plaque – once in the morning and once before you go to bed.
Thorough brushing with either a manual or electric toothbrush should take around two minutes.
Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three months.
Floss daily between your teeth to remove plaque.
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Avoid too many sweet foods and sugary drinks and whenever possible limit them to mealtimes.
Avoid drinking too much coffee or alcohol.
Have regular dental check-ups, depending on factors such as your age, general health and dental history.
Antibacterial mouthwashes may also help fight plaque and bacteria.
Chew sugar-free gum to encourage the flow of saliva in your mouth.
To keep your breath fresh, try to limit the amount of alcohol, garlic, onions, curries and strong-flavoured fish in your diet.
If you smoke, try to cut down or quit.
At a dental check up your dentist will check for cavities and. X-rays may be taken to detect cavities between your teeth. The exam will also include a check for plaque and tartar on your teeth. Plaque is a clear, sticky layer of bacteria. If it is not removed, it can harden and become tartar. You cannot remove tartar with brushing and flossing. If plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, they can cause oral diseases.
Next, your gums will be checked to assess the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. With healthy gums, the spaces are shallow. When people have gum disease, the spaces may become deeper.
Your teeth will also be cleaned. Brushing and flossing help clean the plaque from your teeth, but you can't remove tartar at home. During cleaning, your dentist will use special tools to remove tartar.
After any tartar is removed from your teeth, they may be polished to remove any surface stains followed by flossing. Your dentist will use floss to make sure the areas between your teeth are clean.
Our four conveniently located surgeries offer appointments with male or female dentists, and we can process your Private Health Insurance and Medicare claims on the spot saving you time by not having to visit your Health Fund. We also provide $1,000 worth of basic dental services to eligible children paid for by Medicare.
