Frequently asked questions
We know that sometimes you just need a question answered. Here are some of the common questions we encounter. If you have any other specific queries or just want to discuss something, please don't hesitate to give us a call on (07) 3493 0028 or send us an email at contact@gatewaydentalhealth.com.au - We'll be happy to get back to you!
When should my child come see the dentist?
There is no set rule on when your kids can come see the dentist. If you have a concern, come in anytime! They can have a ride in the chair, and it is a good way to get them used to (and hopefully excited about!) coming to see us!
Generally though, bring them in for a check up as soon as their first set of teeth are through (or as soon as they can sit still) which is anywhere between 2-3 years old.
Why do I keep getting holes in my teeth?
There are many factors that contribute to tooth decay. Come in and we can help you find out what is causing the problems in your mouth.
Generally speaking, consider:
- your at home oral hygiene. Are you brushing twice a day and flossing daily?
- your diet. If you are not having lots of sweets or sugary drinks, what does your intake of fruit (contains natural sugars), or carbohydrates (chips, biscuits, bread, pasta) look like?
- do you have existing damage to your teeth or a condition that makes your mouth more susceptible to decay?
Why are my teeth stained or discoloured?
Teeth can be stained or discoloured for a number of reasons. Generally, staining can be broken down into two categories, internal (inside the tooth) and external (on the outside of the tooth).
Some of the most common causes of external tooth staining include:
- tea and coffee
- red wine, berries and coloured foods
- a buildup of plaque and calculus on the teeth
Internal staining and discolouration is usually more difficult to treat. Causes can include:
- a dead tooth that has gone grey over time
- yellow teeth due to thin tooth enamel or loss of enamel
- staining from fevers and/or associated antibiotics at a young age
- developmental problems with the teeth
Regardless of what kind of staining you have, don't be embarassed to ask us about it, we're here to help!
What is the best way to look after my baby or toddler's teeth?
For babies: wipe your child's gums every night before bed with a damp, soft cloth.
For toddlers: introduce your child to brushing morning and night as soon as their first teeth come through, or as soon as they will allow!
Top tips:
1. Never let your child take a milk bottle to bed, as most milk contains lactose and natural sugars. The same applies to juice and other sugary drinks and foods.
2. Help your kids floss! Lack of flossing is a major cause of childhood decay - if food is stuck between their teeth, it could stay there rotting for weeks!
My teeth are sensitive, what should I do?
Sensitivity can be one of the first signs that something is not quite right with your teeth.
It can be caused by:
- a hole in your tooth from dental decay
- a crack in your tooth from hard foods or unconscious clenching and grinding
- damage to your teeth from acid or trauma
- recession of your gums due to gum-disease or over zealous brushing
We suggest you see us if you are experiencing sensitivity, before anything gets worse!
Why do my gums bleed?
Bleeding gums are more often then not, a sign that something is not quite right or needs to be improved.
The most common causes of bleeding gums are:
- inadequate cleaning and/or lack of flossing
- overbrushing
- inflammation (gingivitis)
- gum and bone disease (periodontitis)
If your gums bleed, please see us when you can.
How often should I see my dentist?
It is a widely accepted industry standard that we should all be seeing our dentist every 6 months, as a lot can change in a year!