The team at Sevenoaks Implant & Dental Centre look forward to helping you with all of your oral health and hygiene needs in our state-of-the-art, family-friendly dental surgery. On this page, you’ll find the answers to frequently asked dental hygiene questions.
What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent damage to your teeth and gums. Both manual and electric toothbrushes clean well, it comes down to personal preference as to what you find easier to use.
Be sure to change your toothbrush or toothbrush head every 3 months or sooner if the bristles become splayed. This will help to ensure that you are brushing effectively.
Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen and protect teeth, reducing the risk of dental decay.
Why is it important that I use interdental cleaning aids daily?
Interdental cleaning aids help to remove food particles and bacteria that build up between teeth, in areas that brushing alone misses. Regular interdental cleaning helps to maintain healthy gums and prevents periodontal disease.
Why are my gums bleeding?
Gums bleed when they are irritated or inflamed. This is due to bacteria being left on the teeth which causes gingivitis and if not addressed can develop into gum disease. It is important that if your gums bleed you continue to brush them well otherwise the bacteria build up will make gum inflammation worse. After a few days of thorough cleaning your gums should stop bleeding. If this does not happen, you will need to book an appointment with your dentist for further investigations.
I have sensitive teeth. What should I do?
Use a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. Try to avoid strongly acidic foods and drinks and be sure to wait at least an hour after eating before brushing as this gives the teeth time to remineralise. Grinding your teeth can also cause sensitivity and a mouth guard maybe necessary.
How often should I visit the dentist?
The dentist will advise you on how often you need to attend for appointments. This will normally be every six months to a year. This ensures that any problems can be identified early and treated quickly. It is still important to schedule regular dental appointments even if you do not have any problems as this allows any issues to be identified early and treated quickly, reducing the need for expensive, extensive treatment.