From dental checkups to tooth fairy payouts, these are our top most frequently asked questions about oral health, dental care and overall well-being…
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Avoid delay. If you require immediate attention from an emergency dentist in Wellington, contact Simply Dental on 0800-123-343 or 044-739-283. Find out more here.
Are all toothbrushes the same?
No. If you have dexterity issues an electric toothbrush is a great option. Small-headed brushes are easier to fit into hard-to-reach spots. Brushes with firmer bristles also have the potential to damage the enamel on teeth.
How often should I brush my teeth?
A least twice a day.
How often should I change my toothbrush?
The average lifespan of a toothbrush is 12 to 16 weeks. After that, your brush is likely beginning to wear out so it’s time for a new one.
How should I care for an infant’s teeth?
Kids’ teeth need brushing twice a day, regular checkups and a tooth-friendly diet. Sugary drinks are especially important to avoid. Click here to find out more about how to care for a child’s teeth.
How can I cope with anxiety when visiting the dentist?
The good news is that modern dentist visits are generally much less unpleasant than they were 20 or even 10 years ago. We’re also a lot better at managing dentophobia. Check out these coping strategies.
How much should the tooth fairy be paying me for my teeth?
Market rates vary drastically depending on size and condition of the tooth, the international market, and other variables, however anywhere between 50c and NZD$2 per tooth is generally considered acceptable.
How can I address my sleep apnoea?
The main remedy for sleep apnoea is usually more exercise and a healthier diet, but other issues can have an effect too.
Why do I grind my teeth?
In a word, stress. a stress reduction routine before bed is a good first step. After that, you could need a mouth splint or mouthguard to wear at night. Click here for more.
Do I really need to floss?
Make no mistake, floss is boss! Flossing dislodges food stuck between teeth and under the gums, and should be a cornerstone of your preventive maintenance routine.
When should wisdom teeth be removed?
Your wisdom teeth usually don’t need to be removed unless they’re impacted and are causing problems. If you have pain or infection, make an appointment to see your dentist
I’m under 18. Am I entitled to free dental care?
In New Zealand, dental care is free until the age of 18!
Is chewing gum a substitute for brushing?
While chewing gum can help keep your teeth cleaner between brushing, it’s no substitute for a proper oral health maintenance programme which includes brushing, flossing and regular checkups.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
If you experience tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling or discolouration of your teeth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best steps from there.
How can I save money on dental care?
Double down on your maintenance routine. Prevention really is the best form of cure. An annual plan with your dentist can help save on costs – contact Simply Dental to find out about annual dental care plans.
What’s the best way to fix stained teeth?
After a review of your general maintenance plan, dental whitening works well, with current research showing tooth whitening to be safe and effective when the correct protocols are followed.
What do I need to know about getting braces?
There are several versions of dental braces available on the market today, with the top brands being FastBraces and Invisalign. Which is best for you? Read this to find out.
Is thumb sucking bad for oral health?
It can be. While there’s no need to prevent a baby from sucking its thumb, persistent, long-term thumb sucking can lead to misalignment of teeth. Consult your dentist if your child is still sucking their thumb when their baby teeth emerge.
Why have I got bad breath?
Causes vary, but bad breath is often linked to poor hygiene in the mouth, so scheduling a cleaning from a professional is a good idea if you’re suffering from symptoms.
Why are my teeth so sensitive?
When gum disease and/or receding gums expose dentin on root surfaces, tooth sensitivity can result. Check out the full list of causes here.
Is mouthwash bad for you?
Professionals generally agree that the benefits outweigh the downsides, however, mouthwashes – especially those containing alcohol – can have several side effects, including destruction of the healthy mouth biome and the possibility of increased cancer risk. Young children should not use mouthwash.
If I brush and floss, does diet really matter to my oral health?
Absolutely! Your overall health generally has a huge impact on your oral health specifically, so maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for good oral health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and exercise regularly.
At Simply Dental we recommend a balanced approach to well-being, including a healthy, varied diet, good daily hygiene practices, and regular dental checkups.
To make a dental appointment in Wellington, contact Simply Dental.