How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
If your teeth and gums are healthy, regular six-month cleaning by your dentist will help to keep them that way. This cleaning process removes tartar that brushing doesn’t reach. If you have gum disease or other issues, your dentist may suggest more-frequent cleaning.
Should I be concerned if my gums bleed when brushing?
Yes. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease. You should make an appointment to see a dentist as soon as possible to ascertain the cause of the bleeding. Untreated gum disease results in the permanent loss of the bone that supports teeth, leading eventually to tooth loss. It can also cause other health problems, so don’t delay in seeking advice.
Our dentist at Warrnambool dental can discuss with you how to prevent gum disease through good oral hygiene practices.
Can I ignore a tooth that is cracked but not completely broken?
No, don’t ignore it. Our dentist at Warrnambool Dental will assess any fractures in your teeth and provide advice on whether the tooth can be repaired or if it needs to be removed. It is recommended that you obtain early advice to improve your chances of retaining the tooth.
Why are X-rays required? Are they harmful?2
X-rays are an important tool in diagnosing tooth decay and the need for fillings and other dental treatments. X-rays also allow us to make an early diagnose that can help prevent the need for future treatments or tooth loss. The level of radiation given off by dental X-rays is very low, particularly as we utilise digital X-ray equipment at Warrnambool Dental.
It has been quite a few years since I have been to the dentist – I’m anxious that I will have a lot of expensive problems to fix.
Warrnambool Dental understands that you may be concerned about the possible costs of dental work. However, prompt dental treatment is important to your health and our treatment plans and their costs will always be discussed with you up front. Payment options may be available that can assist you to budget for your treatment.
How long will the first visit take?
Your first consultation with our dentist at Warrnambool Dental will be a very thorough one. We will assess your teeth, gums and overall dental health as well as discussing your dental history. We need to take a thorough approach to the first visit so that we can detect any issues and formulate a treatment plan based on the full information about the state of your teeth. Our patients appreciate this thorough approach and that our standard fee is charged for this first visit despite the longer time taken.