Quick answers from our professionals:

Generally, the consensus amongst dentists is that a reasonable period for routine dental examination and maintenance is 6 months. The idea of regular check ups is to identify any dental diseases before they require significant treatment – after all, prevention is much, much better than having to cure!

Because of changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, there is increased blood flow to the periodontal tissues (gums) which can result in an increase in inflammation of periodontal tissues in some circumstances. It is therefore good practice to pay particular attention to oral hygiene in pregnancy, including visiting your dentist for dental examination and routine cleaning. Ideally, dental treatment is carried out before conception or after the first trimester (i.e. 12 weeks).

It’s common for third molar teeth to either partially erupt or erupt in a way that is not ideal. This may be related to the fact that there is not enough room for them to erupt properly or that they are misaligned. People often have pain with these teeth as they become difficult to clean, resulting in food packing, tooth decay, or gum disease.

However, not all people have wisdom teeth – and for those who do, not everybody requires their wisdom teeth to be removed. It’s best to have these teeth examined for early detection and management for the best course of action by your dentist.

There is significant research being undertaken which suggests that there is a link between periodontal disease (gum disease) and heart disease. It’s been proposed that local periodontal inflammation can result in a wider immune response in the body which leads to a response in the lining of arteries facilitating atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe and use low levels of radiation to capture detailed images of your teeth and jaw. Dental X-rays are essential for diagnosing hidden problems, such as cavities, bone loss, and impacted teeth, allowing for accurate treatment planning. Dentists will take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety during the procedure.

There are plenty of safe, comfortable, and cost-effective options for replacing missing teeth! Dental implants are a permanent solution that involves surgically placing a titanium post in the jawbone, which supports a crown. Bridges use adjacent teeth as anchors to support the replacement tooth, while dentures are removable prosthetics that replace multiple missing teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your oral health, preferences, and your budget.

It’s easy to step up your oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth, and using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath. Additionally, try to limit sugary snacks and beverages, avoid tobacco products, and maintain a balanced diet.