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 toothpaste and once-a-day flossing.

Yes, in fact, due to the change in hormones produced in pregnancy, your gums bleed more easily 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.

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; if you notice any dark spots, stained areas or frosty white areas, make an appointment regardless of the child’s age. It’s best to bring the child with you to each appointment to acquaint them with the dentist. Children 4 and under are seen free when appointed with an adult.

Decay starts in the outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, which has no nerves, so decay present there causes no pain. It is only once decay grows to a moderate size that most people experience pain, because by then it is very close to, or already into, the nerve of the tooth.

Decay and other disease of tooth and bone occur in places that are hard to access, clean and see. X-rays are important for treatment planning because they let us detect disease early and treat it simply. We recommend x-rays every 2 years as a screen for low-risk patients; high-risk patients may need them more often.

Recent studies have found the incidence of heart disease is double in people with gum disease compared with those without. Gum (periodontal) disease has also been linked to diabetes, stroke, lung disease, low birth weight, premature birth and stomach ulcers. Keeping regular maintenance appointments with your dental team minimises the effect of gum disease on your overall health.

Sensitivity has a wide range of causes. The porous part of the tooth (dentine) is the section that registers pain, and it can become exposed by fractured, chipped, injured and decayed teeth. Clenching and grinding is also a factor.

Food particles left on your tongue and between your teeth react with bacteria and cause bad breath; mints, mouthwash and gum only mask the problem. An effective at-home routine plus professional cleaning every six months (depending on your oral health) can restore your mouth to full health. Persistent bad breath can sometimes indicate a gastrointestinal, respiratory or sinus problem. In that case we advise consulting your GP.

If you are in pain, every attempt will be made to see you that day and relieve your pain. All other treatment is booked at the next available appointment.