Frequently asked questions
The answers below are for information only and do not replace a clinical examination. Every mouth is different and the appropriate treatment is always recommended after a personalised assessment.
How often should I visit the dentist?
How often you visit depends on each patient's needs. For many people a regular check-up every 6 months is useful, while others may need more or less frequent visits. The dentist will recommend the right schedule based on the condition of your teeth and gums.
Why is a regular dental check-up important?
Regular check-ups help to detect decay, gingivitis, periodontal problems or other damage early, before they progress. Treatment is then usually simpler, more conservative and more predictable.
How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
How often you need cleaning depends on the amount of tartar, the health of the gums, smoking, oral hygiene and any history of periodontal problems. For many patients a cleaning every 6 months is recommended, while in cases of gingivitis or periodontitis more frequent follow-up may be needed.
Does cleaning hurt?
Cleaning is usually not painful. There may be slight discomfort or sensitivity, especially when the gums are inflamed or there is a lot of tartar. The dentist adapts the procedure to make it as comfortable as possible.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It often shows up as bleeding when brushing, redness, swelling or bad breath. With proper oral hygiene and professional cleaning it can be brought under control quickly.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a more advanced inflammation that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. It can cause tooth mobility, gum recession, bad breath and bone loss. It needs diagnosis, treatment and systematic follow-up.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Gum bleeding is often related to gingivitis or a build-up of bacterial plaque and tartar. You should not stop brushing, but it is a good idea to have a dental check-up to identify the cause.
How should I brush my teeth?
Brushing twice a day for about 3-4 minutes with fluoride toothpaste is recommended. Daily cleaning between the teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes, depending on your needs, is also important.
Is dental floss necessary?
Yes, because a toothbrush does not effectively clean every spot between the teeth. Floss or interdental brushes help to remove plaque and food debris from areas where decay or gum inflammation often begins.
What is tooth decay?
Decay is damage to the hard tissue of the tooth caused by acids produced by the bacteria of dental plaque. If it is not treated in time, it can progress deeper and cause pain or the need for a more complex treatment.
When is a filling needed?
A filling is needed when there is decay, a fracture or wear in a tooth. The aim is to remove the damaged part and restore the form and function of the tooth.
How long does a filling last?
How long a filling lasts depends on the size of the restoration, the position of the tooth, oral hygiene, chewing forces and the patient's habits. Regular check-ups help to monitor it.
Are composite resins safe?
Composite resins are widely used in dentistry for aesthetic restorations. The appropriate material is chosen according to the case, the size of the damage, the position of the tooth and the functional demands.
When is root canal treatment needed?
Root canal treatment may be needed when the pulp of the tooth is inflamed or infected, usually because of deep decay, trauma or a large old restoration. Symptoms may include severe pain, pain when chewing, swelling, sensitivity to heat or cold, or discolouration of the tooth.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
With modern local anaesthesia, treatment is usually painless. After the session there may be temporary sensitivity, especially when chewing, which usually subsides gradually.
When should I have a tooth extracted?
Extraction may be needed when a tooth cannot be preserved, because of extensive destruction, advanced periodontitis, a fracture, infection or orthodontic or surgical reasons. Before extraction, alternative ways of keeping the tooth are considered wherever possible.
What is a surgical extraction?
A surgical extraction is the removal of a tooth that cannot be extracted simply, such as impacted wisdom teeth, broken teeth or roots. It is carried out under local anaesthesia, with appropriate instructions for healing.
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Wisdom teeth do not always need to be removed. Extraction may be needed when they cause pain, infection, decay in the neighbouring tooth, pressure, impaction or difficulty with cleaning. The decision is made after a clinical and X-ray examination.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial roots, made of titanium, that are placed in the bone and can support crowns, bridges or dentures. They are one of the options for restoring lost teeth.
Does implant placement hurt?
Placement is done under local anaesthesia, so no pain is expected during the procedure. Afterwards there may be mild discomfort, swelling or sensitivity for a few days, depending on the case.
Can all patients have implants?
Not always. An assessment is needed of your general health, the quality and quantity of the bone, oral hygiene, smoking and other factors. The final decision is made after an examination and the appropriate X-ray assessment.
What is an apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed at the tip of a tooth's root, when there is persistent inflammation that cannot be adequately treated by root canal treatment alone. The aim is to preserve the natural tooth wherever possible.
What should I do if a tooth hurts badly?
Severe pain needs a dental assessment. It may be due to decay, inflammation of the nerve, an abscess, a fracture or a gum problem. Do not delay the examination, especially if there is swelling, fever or difficulty opening your mouth.
What should I do if a tooth breaks?
Book an appointment as soon as possible. Avoid chewing on that side and, if there is a piece of the tooth, keep it. Treatment depends on the size and depth of the fracture.
What should I do if a filling or a crown comes off?
Avoid chewing on that area and contact the practice. Do not try to glue the crown back on yourself with unsuitable materials. The dentist will check whether it can be re-seated or whether a new restoration is needed.
Is sensitivity to cold normal?
Sensitivity may be due to gum recession, enamel wear, decay, cracks, bruxism or recent dental work. If it persists or is severe, it needs to be checked.
What is bruxism?
Bruxism is the clenching or grinding of the teeth, often during sleep. It can cause wear, jaw pain, headaches or sensitivity. In many cases a special night guard, worn during sleep, helps.
When is a bruxism night guard needed?
A night guard may be recommended when there are signs of intense clenching or grinding, tooth wear, muscle fatigue, pain in the temporomandibular joint or headaches related to tightening of the jaws.
Can I have my teeth whitened?
Whitening can be done for many patients, but a dental check-up is needed first. Decay, gum inflammation, cracks or marked sensitivity must be assessed before any cosmetic procedure.
Does whitening damage teeth?
When it is properly indicated, carried out with suitable materials and under dental supervision, whitening is considered a conservative cosmetic procedure. It should not, however, be done without control or with unsuitable products.
What should I do before my first appointment?
It is a good idea to bring any recent X-rays, a list of the medication you take and information about your medical history. This allows the dentist to make a more complete assessment.
Do you accept emergency cases?
In case of severe pain, swelling, a broken tooth or an injury, contact the dental practice so that you can be given instructions and an examination can be scheduled as soon as possible.
Can I come to the dentist if I am very afraid?
Of course. Fear of the dentist is common and is addressed with a calm approach, an explanation of every step and gradual familiarisation. The aim is for the patient to feel safe and in control throughout the treatment.
Why shouldn't I wait until it hurts?
Many dental problems cause no pain at first. When severe pain appears, the damage may already have progressed. Prevention and regular check-ups help to treat problems early and more conservatively.
How can I book an appointment?
You can contact the dental practice by telephone or through the contact form on the website. We will suggest an available day and time according to your needs and the type of case.
No question found. Ask us directly.
Send your question