Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Preventive Dentistry

The foods and drinks we consume regularly have a significant impact on the health of our smiles. Avoiding sugars are not the only things we have to watch for when it comes to keeping our teeth strong.

Choosing the Right Beverages

What we drink has a huge effect on our teeth. After all, liquids are capable of accessing all surface areas, making them one of the predominant causes of tooth decay. Although 'sugar-free' or 'diet' beverages may have artificial sweeteners and fewer cavities, they are just as capable of causing tooth decay.

Drinking fluoridated water is one of the healthiest things we can do for our teeth. Not only does it rinse the teeth of acids and biofilm, but the fluoride also aids in healthy tooth development.

The Foods and Snacks We Consume

Eating fresh, crispy fruits and vegetables are beneficial to the health of our teeth and gums. These firm, fibrous foods stimulate gum tissues, improve immunity and clean the teeth as we chew them. Produce is our go-to snack and a predominant portion of our meals.

Customised Nutritional Counseling

We understand that some of our patients want help in making smart choices about their diets. We also understand that certain types of medical conditions may impact the types of food that you can consume. Our dentists and hygienists can help you balance your nutrition so that it is beneficial to you physically, as much as it is to your smile.

For more information on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy, speak to our friendly dental team at our Fairfield or Hampton dental clinics to learn more.

We recommend in both our Fairfield and Hampton clinics that usually every six months is advisable to have your dental cleaning. Call us for a dental appointment if it has been more than six to twelve months.

In order to maintain optimal dental health, it is recommended that you see your dentist/hygienist every six months for a routine dental check-up. In some cases, (e.g. patients in certain risk categories) more frequent visits may be suggested. 

Regular attendance to the dentist assists with two core principles of dentistry – maintenance and prevention.

What Happens at a Dental Examination?

These appointments enable yourself and the dentist to maintain the current health of your oral cavity. For example, a scale and clean (which is usually included in these appointments) assists in decreasing the bacterial load on your gums. Without this treatment, conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis can run rampant and lead to irreversible future outcomes.

Early detection of dental conditions is also a priority. The sooner a possible concern is detected, the more chance there is to prevent negative outcomes. For example, individualised oral hygiene instructions aim to assist in decreasing gum disease and the formation of dental cavities. Regular soft tissue assessments help with early detection of lesions including oral cancers. Early diagnosis of tooth decay may prevent treatments such as root canal therapy or even loss of tooth. 

Dental Exams in Hampton and Fairfield

There is much to gain from attending dental maintenance appointments. Our belief at Sparkle Dental Care Fairfield and Hampton is that prevention, is the best way to maintain dental health as well as a healthy body and healthy life!

Your teeth should generally be brushed twice a day, (morning and night). This is to reduce plaque and bacteria accumulated from food and drinks throughout the day. Don’t forget to floss once a day to reduce risk of dental cavities and gum disease/infection from occurring between the teeth!

FUN FACT: Flossing covers 40% of the tooth surface.

A good home oral hygiene routine can help maintain your health between visits. It can also help to prevent the onset of gum disease. Gum disease is the primary cause of adult tooth loss. Why? Because most people do not realise gum disease is as serious as tooth decay. The prevalence of the condition is also shown to have a direct correlation with the severity of other health conditions including:

• Cardiovascular diseases
• Obesity
• Erectile dysfunction
• Premature birth and low birth weight
• Sleep apnea

Preventing cavities and gum disease routinely depend on a two-step oral hygiene process that includes:

Brushing

Correct tooth brushing is always done with a soft bristled brush, to prevent gum recession or excessive wear. Brush for two minutes, twice daily, focusing on only one or two teeth at a time. Angling the bristles toward the gum lines will help remove plaque deposits that are accumulating just under the edge of the gums.

Flossing

Cleaning between the teeth and under the gum line is essential for complete oral hygiene. Wrap the floss tightly around each tooth, sliding it up and down several times against the tooth and just below the gumline. This process removes plaque buildup between the teeth and just under the gum tissues where periodontal disease first starts.

If swelling or bleeding is present when you brush or floss, continue brushing as directed. Improvement is typically seen within two weeks. For patients with additional fixed prosthesis such as braces or bridges, our dental hygienists will discuss techniques and oral hygiene aids that can be used to improve your plaque control. Schedule your preventive care appointment by calling us today.

When You Arrive

We request that you bring any insurance cards and a photo ID with you to our Fairfield or Hampton dental clinics. There will be a few forms for you to fill out to help us better understand your oral health needs.

What to Expect

During your first visit you will discuss your concerns with one of our dentists, who will also review your medical and dental history with you. If necessary, we will also take a few digital x-rays to assess your bone levels and screen for cavities. You may also elect to have your teeth cleaned at this visit.

What Comes First?

Book your first appointment by calling either of our dental offices in Hampton, VIC or Fairfield, VIC. One of our patient coordinators will be happy to assist you and answer any questions that you might have.

With the never ending number of options available, (even within the same brand) it is no wonder the choice can be confusing!

What Goes into a Good Toothpaste

From a dentist’s perspective the main purpose of toothpaste is to act as a carrier for the mineral fluoride. The topical use of fluoride assists with the rebuilding of teeth which have been weakened by bacteria. This in turn reduces the incidence of decay and dental cavities. It therefore stands that any toothpaste that contains fluoride is suitable for the job!

Other components which make up toothpastes may include antibacterial agents and components which give the user the sensation of a fresh mouth e.g. fresh taste and foaming agents. Toothpastes that purport whitening effects may have more abrasive particles to assist with removal of stains. Whilst toothpastes such as sensodyne, have particles that assist with decreasing sensitivity. 

For certain patients at greater risk of decay, the dentist may advise toothpastes with a higher concentration of fluoride.

Best Toothpaste for Children

When it comes to children, it is imperative that a toothpaste specific for their age is used. These toothpastes contain less fluoride. In children where adult teeth are still developing, excess fluoride can result in weak and deformed teeth e.g. hypomineralisation. This is where age specific toothpastes come in handy – they help decrease the rate of decay but are less likely to damage developing teeth.

Here at Sparkle Dental Care we recommend you choose a toothpaste that you and your family are comfortable using. If you are having difficulties navigating around the abundance of choice, have specific intolerances or concerns we are always happy to assist!