Live chat FAQs
General Dental Care
1. How often should I visit the dentist?
Every 6 months is recommended for most people, but some may need more frequent visits depending on oral health.
2. Why are regular dental check-ups important?
They help detect problems early, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
3. What happens during a dental check-up?
Your dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth, checks for decay or gum disease, and may recommend a clean or X-rays.
4. How do I know if I have cavities?
Common signs include toothache, sensitivity to hot/sweet foods, or visible holes, but only a dentist can confirm.
5. What causes bad breath?
Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking, or certain foods can cause bad breath.
6. How can I prevent tooth decay?
Brush twice daily, floss daily, reduce sugar intake, and visit your dentist regularly.
7. What’s the best way to brush my teeth?
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and brush for 2 minutes twice a day.
8. How often should I floss?
Once a day is ideal to remove plaque and food between teeth.
9. Are electric toothbrushes better than manual ones?
Both work well, but electric toothbrushes can make brushing easier and more effective for some people.
10. What toothpaste should I use?
A fluoride toothpaste is best for cavity prevention; sensitive toothpaste helps if you have sensitive teeth.
Oral Health Concerns
11. Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
It’s often a sign of gum disease or brushing too hard — see your dentist for advice.
12. What is gum disease?
An infection of the gums caused by plaque build-up. It can cause bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth loss if untreated.
13. How can I prevent gum disease?
Brush and floss daily, avoid smoking, and get regular dental check-ups and cleans.
14. What should I do if my tooth is sensitive?
Use sensitive toothpaste and avoid very hot or cold foods. If it persists, see your dentist.
15. What causes tooth sensitivity?
Worn enamel, gum recession, cavities, or exposed tooth roots can all cause sensitivity.
16. What should I do if my tooth hurts?
See a dentist as soon as possible — toothache usually means there’s an underlying issue.
17. Why are my teeth yellow?
Causes include food and drink stains, smoking, ageing, or thinning enamel.
18. Can diet affect my teeth?
Yes. Sugary foods and acidic drinks increase the risk of decay and erosion.
19. Why do I get mouth ulcers?
Stress, trauma (like biting your cheek), certain foods, or vitamin deficiencies can trigger them.
20. What should I do if my jaw hurts?
Jaw pain may be from teeth grinding, TMJ problems, or misaligned teeth — consult your dentist.
Preventive & Cosmetic Dentistry
21. What are dental sealants?
A protective coating applied to back teeth to prevent cavities.
22. Do I need fluoride treatment?
Yes, fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities — especially useful for children and those at risk of decay.
23. What is professional teeth cleaning?
A scale and polish to remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t remove.
24. How safe is teeth whitening?
Professional whitening is safe and effective when done under dental supervision.
25. How long does teeth whitening last?
Results usually last 6–12 months, depending on diet and habits like smoking.
26. What are veneers?
Thin shells of porcelain or composite placed over teeth to improve colour, shape, or alignment.
27. How much does teeth whitening cost?
Costs vary, but professional whitening usually ranges from a few hundred dollars upwards.
28. What’s the difference between whitening toothpaste and professional whitening?
Whitening toothpaste removes surface stains only; professional whitening lightens the tooth colour deeper.
29. Are charcoal toothpastes safe?
They may be abrasive and not proven to whiten — regular fluoride toothpaste is safer.
30. Can teeth whitening damage enamel?
When done professionally, no. Overuse of whitening products at home may cause sensitivity.
Restorative Dentistry
31. What are dental fillings?
They restore a tooth damaged by decay using materials like composite resin or amalgam.
32. What types of fillings are available?
Composite resin (tooth-coloured), amalgam (silver), gold, and porcelain.
33. How long do dental fillings last?
Composite fillings last 5–7 years, while amalgam or gold can last 10–15 years or more.
34. What are crowns and why are they needed?
A crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weak tooth to restore strength and appearance.
35. What are dental bridges?
A bridge replaces missing teeth using neighbouring teeth for support.
36. What are dental implants?
Artificial tooth roots made of titanium that support crowns or bridges to replace missing teeth.
37. How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, implants can last 15+ years, often a lifetime.
38. What is a root canal?
A treatment to remove infected pulp inside a tooth and save the tooth from extraction.
39. Does a root canal hurt?
With modern anaesthesia, root canals are usually no more painful than a filling.
40. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Signs include severe toothache, swelling, prolonged sensitivity, or infection.
Orthodontics
41. What are braces?
Braces are devices that straighten teeth and correct bite issues.
42. What is Invisalign?
A clear aligner system that gradually straightens teeth without metal braces.
43. How long does orthodontic treatment take?
On average, 12–24 months depending on the case.
44. What age is best for braces?
Children aged 10–14 are ideal, but adults can also get braces.
45. Are braces only for kids?
No — many adults choose braces or Invisalign to improve their smiles.
46. Can adults get Invisalign?
Yes, Invisalign is very popular among adults for discreet treatment.
47. Do braces hurt?
You may feel discomfort after adjustments, but it usually settles in a few days.
48. How much does Invisalign cost?
Prices vary but typically range from $4,500–$9,000 depending on complexity.
49. How do I take care of my teeth with braces?
Brush after meals, floss with special tools, and avoid hard or sticky foods.
50. What happens after braces are removed?
You’ll need a retainer to keep teeth in place and prevent shifting.
